A novel plier-like gemini cationic niosome for nucleic acid delivery

Abstract

This study aimed to develop a novel cationic niosome formulation from a novel plier-like cationic lipid A (PCL-A) with Span 20 and cholesterol (Chol). The niosomes were prepared by a thin film hydration method followed by probe sonication. The molar ratios of the cationic lipid in the formulation, and the weight ratios of the cationic niosomes to the nucleic acids (pDNA or siRNA) were optimized. The physical properties of the niosome were investigated. In addition, the cytotoxicity, transfection efficiency, gene silencing efficiency, cellular uptake, and cellular uptake pathway were also determined. The results revealed that the cationic niosomes containing PCL-A: Span20: Chol at the molar ratio of 1.5: 2.5: 2.5 (N1.5) and 2: 2.5: 2.5 (N2) were optimal for DNA and siRNA delivery, respectively. The high transfection efficiency of about 97% was obtained form N1.5/DNA at the weight ratio of 1: 1. In addition, the efficiency of gene silencing obtained from the complexes of N2/siRNA at the weight ratio of 5: 1 was higher than that of the commercial product without affecting the cell viability. Therefore, these novel cationic niosomes could be a promising potential carrier for DNA and siRNA delivery.