Liver-directed gene transfer: a linear polyethylenimine derivative mediates highly efficient DNA delivery to primary hepatocytes in vitro and in vivo

Efficient DNA delivery is a prerequisite for the successful implementation of molecular antiviral strategies against chronic viral hepatitis and gene therapy in general, The cationic polymer polyethylenimine (PEI) has recentl y been explored as a gene transfer vector in various cell types in vitro an d in vivo. In this study, we evaluated a linear PEI derivative (IPEI) as a vector for gene and oligodeoxynucleotide transfer into hepatocytes in vitro and in vivo. A simple protocol was developed that allowed transfection of up to 50% of primary hepatocytes in vitro, In addition, fluorescent oligode oxynucleotides were efficiently delivered to the liver in vivo after intrav enous injection into Pekin ducks. Thus, IPEI mediates highly efficient:gene and oligodeoxynucleotide transfer into primary hepatocytes and is potentia lly useful for DNA delivery in vivo.