Gene transfer mediated by YKS-220 cationic particles: Convenient and efficient gene delivery reagent

A monocationic lipid, YKS-220, with a symmetrical and biodegradable structu re can be used as an effective gene transfer vector in a cationic particle form (not a cationic liposome form), and is obtained by diluting an ethanol solution of YKS-220 and DOPE (1:5, molar ratio) with an aqueous medium. Th is preparation method is more convenient than that for cationic liposomes, YKS-220 cationic particles showed a heterogeneous large mean diameter of 4. 4 mu m. An obvious size change was not observed when plasmid DNA was added. The transfection activity of YKS-220 cationic particles was comparable to those of YKS-220 liposomes and DOSPA liposomes (LipofectAMINE(TM)), and eve n higher than that of DOGS (TRNSFECTAM), Interestingly, the YKS-220 cationi c particle/DNA complexes were resistant to the neutralizing effect of serum . All of these findings indicate that YKS-220 cationic particles are a conv enient and efficient gene delivery reagent.