Feasibility of DNA Delivery with Microelectrodes

描述（由申请方提供）：本拟定研究将确定使用微电极阵列施加电能将体内DNA转移至活细胞的可行性。该研究将首先组装适当的微电极，基于计算机的硬件和定制软件，以创建用于在体内施加电场的设备。然后将通过将质粒DNA递送到大鼠模型的肌肉中并分析基因表达来测试该设备。结果将与通常用于DNA递送的标准“宏”电极进行比较。 如果成功的话，这项研究将证明微电极的实用性，用于使用具有较低功率的设备将DNA递送到细胞/组织，该设备可以精确地将DNA递送到所需的位置。 成功也将是未来研究的动力，因为本研究中提出的微电极可以灵活地确认组织形貌，足够小以应用于腹腔镜或导管型器械，并作为多剂量输送用途的植入式器械。

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): This proposed study will determine the feasibility of using an array of microelectrodes for applying electrical energy to transfer DNA in vivo to living cells. The study will first assemble appropriate microelectrodes, computer based hardware, and custom software to create a device for applying electric fields in vivo. The device will then be tested by delivering plasmid DNA to muscle in a rat model and analyzing gene expression. Results will be compared to standard "macro" electrodes that are commonly in use for DNA delivery. If successful, this study will demonstrate the utility of microelectrodes for DNA delivery to cells/tissue using a device with a lower power that can precisely deliver DNA to a desired location. Success will also be a motivator for future investigations as the microelectrodes proposed in this study can be made flexible to confirm to tissue topography, small enough to be applied laproscopically or on a catheter type device, and as an implantable device for multiple dose delivery uses.