TFC056 Effect of cell penetrating peptide (TAT) on the complexation and transfection of siRNA

Abstract

Gene therapy has been investigated as a strategy for the treatment of numerous diseases, such as cancer, AIDS and cystic fibrosis. In this way, post-transcriptional gene silencing by RNA interference rises as an interesting method for the target inhibition of gene expression. It should be emphasized the potential to specifically and potently knock down gene expression, however, naked siRNAs cannot reach the intracellular environment due to its high molecular weight and strongly negative charge. Then, considerable research effort is currently focused on the development of safe and effective delivery systems for these promising molecules.