Cationic Nanoparticles Effectively Delivered VEGF SiRNA in A549 Cells

摘要

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) plays a crucial role in the production of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) needed for cell growth and proliferation, and tumor expansion. Therefore, inhibition of angiogenesis via targeting the VEGF signalling pathway offers a target for cancer therapy. Small interfering RNAs (SiRNAs) are specific inhibitors of mRNA, block the translation step, and inhibit the expression of protein in the tumor cells. The challenge with SiRNA as therapeutic agents is its inherent instability in biological fluids. We propose to overcome this by encapsulating the SiRNA in nanoparticles, which has the potential to provide improved effectiveness and safety for cancer treatment. In this study, we validated this approach of inhibition of VEGF levels using SiRNA in lung cancer cells. Cationic nanoparticles of SiRNA were prepared and characterized. No significant injury to the cells was observed after cells were treated with SiRNA nanoparticles. Cationic Liposomes of VEGF SiRNA showed the most effecacy in inhibiting expression of VEGF in A549 lung cancer cells.