We compared the efficacy of gene transfer in vitro and in vivo using v
arious formulations of DNA-lipid complexes based on the novel cationic
lipid EDMPC (1,2-dimyristoylsn-glycero-3-ethylphosphocholine, chlorid
e salt). In vitro studies analyzed delivery of marker genes to four es
tablished cells lines, including two of pulmonary origin. The in vivo
analysis used intralobar delivery of marker genes and CFTR to mice and
rats. We observed a lack of positive correlation between those DNA-ED
MPC formulations that delivered DNA most efficiently in vitro and thos
e that worked best in vivo. Intralobar DNA delivery to rodents mediate
d by EDMPC was efficient. The high level of gene delivery by DNA-EDMPC
formulations demonstrates that efficient lipid-mediated gene transfer
to the lung is possible.