G.G. Krivtsov, E.B. Faizuloev, V.D. Lotte, V.F. Lavrov, A.S. Borisenko

The main aim of our investigation was to create molecular constructions that provide effective mammalian cell transfection and covalently bind target ligands after formation of DNA-polycation complexes. For this purpose polyethylenimine derivatives containing acyl-hydrazide residues (PEI/HR) were synthesized. A number of cell cultures of different tissue genesis were used in transfection experiments ? HeLa, Vero, MA-104, MeWo, COS-1. We found that PEI/HR molecules and plasmid DNA coding for the β-galactosidase gene form nanoparticles which are able to transfect different types of mammalian cells effectively. Transfection efficiency evaluated by X-gal staining of transfected cells varied from 10% to 40% depending on cell type. It was discovered that model ligand molecules i.e. partially depolymerized N-succinated chitosan containing aldehyde group could covalently bind to DNA-PEI/HR nanoparticles which significantly improved transfection efficiency in vitro. Different transfection nanoparticles with any ligands on their surface could be obtained in the same manner. The method developed could be used for creation of molecular complex that will provide effective tissue-specific cell transfection.