Design of HBc-based nanoparticles for efficient delivery of MEF2D siRNA and induction of apoptosis of hepatoma cells

摘要

Objective: Hepatitis B virus nucleocapsid protein (HBc) can be able to assemble into nano-particulate structures when expressed in E.coli. Aim to use non-virus-like particles HBc as a vector to investigate the impact of knockdown of MEF2D gene expression in the apoptosis of hepatocellular cells. Methods: Stable si-MEF2D/HBc nanoparticles were prepared and transfected into hepatocellular cells. The MEF2D RNAi effects on cell apoptosis were detected by flow cytometry analysis, DNA fragmentation assay and Caspase 3/7 enzyme activity assay. Result: In contrast to control cells, the apoptosis of treated hepatocellular cells were increased significantly. Pretreatment of HepG_2 cells with si-MEF2D/HBc complex enhanced apoptosis rate in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusion: As a new biological nano-materials, HBc particles have the capability of delivery of siRNA. It will give a great contribution on later applied to other aspects of research.