LIPOSOME-MEDIATED IN-VIVO GENE-TRANSFER INTO DIFFERENT TISSUES OF THEGASTROINTESTINAL-TRACT

The possibility to transfer and express genetic material in mammalian cells represents a new approach to the treatment of genetic and acquir ed disorders. So far, most studies use in vitro techniques to introduc e foreign DNA into cultured cells, followed by reintroduction of these genetically altered cells into living organisms. In the present study we demonstrate that the LacZ marker gene can be selectively delivered , by in vivo techniques, to various locations of the gastrointestinal tract. Genetic material was targeted to the stomach, the colon, the li ver and the pancreas using cationic liposomes. For transfer into the s tomach and colon an intraluminal application, in the liver a portal ac cess and in the pancreas an intraductal infusion was chosen. 48 hours after administration, the LacZ gene product beta-galactosidase could b e localized in these tissues by cytochemistry These experiments sugges t a new approach to study gastrointestinal physiology and may offer no vel aspects for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases.