Cell-penetrating peptides for the delivery of nucleic acids

TLDR: This review will discuss recent advances of CPP-mediated delivery of nucleic acid-based cargo, concentrating on the delivery of plasmid DNA, splice-correcting ONs, and small-interfering RNAs.

Abstract: Introduction: Different gene therapy approaches have gained extensive interest lately and, after many initial hurdles, several promising approaches have reached to the clinics. Successful implementation of gene therapy is heavily relying on finding efficient measures to deliver genetic material to cells. Recently, non-viral delivery of nucleic acids and their analogs has gained significant interest. Among non-viral vectors, cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) have been extensively used for the delivery of nucleic acids both in vitro and in vivo. Areas covered: In this review we will discuss recent advances of CPP-mediated delivery of nucleic acid-based cargo, concentrating on the delivery of plasmid DNA, splice-correcting ONs, and small-interfering RNAs. Expert opinion: CPPs have proved their potential as carriers for nucleic acids. However, similarly to other non-viral vectors, CPPs require further development, as efficient systemic delivery is still seldom achieved. To achieve this, CPPs should be modified...