Topical gene transfer into rat skin using electroporation

Pharm Res. 2001 Jan;18(1):61-6. doi: 10.1023/a:1011026726938.

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate whether electroporation can be used for topical gene delivery and for DNA expression in rat keratinocytes.

Methods: The localization of a fluorescent-labelled plasmid and the expression of a reporter gene (pEGFP-N1) coding for Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) in stripped skin were assessed by Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM).

Results: The plasmid penetrated into the epidermis within minutes after electroporation and entered the keratinocyte cytoplasm within hours. A localized expression of GFP was observed for at least 7 days in the epidermis. Skin viability was not compromised by electroporation.

Conclusions: Electroporation enhances the delivery, and hence the expression, of topically applied plasmid DNA on the skin. It could be a promising alternative method to administer DNA, particularly for DNA vaccines, in the skin in vivo.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Topical
  • Animals
  • Diffusion
  • Electroporation / methods*
  • Gene Transfer Techniques*
  • Genes, Reporter / physiology
  • Green Fluorescent Proteins
  • Indicators and Reagents / administration & dosage
  • Indicators and Reagents / metabolism
  • Luminescent Proteins / administration & dosage
  • Luminescent Proteins / metabolism
  • Male
  • Plasmids / administration & dosage
  • Plasmids / metabolism
  • Rats
  • Skin / drug effects
  • Skin / metabolism*

Substances

  • Indicators and Reagents
  • Luminescent Proteins
  • Green Fluorescent Proteins