Rationally Designed DNA Nanostructures for Drug Delivery

Abstract

DNA is an excellent biological material that has received growing attention in the field of nanotechnology due to its unique capability for precisely engineering materials via sequence specific interactions. Self-assembled DNA nanostructures of prescribed physicochemical properties have demonstrated potent drug delivery efficiency in vitro and in vivo. By using various conjugation techniques, DNA nanostructures may be precisely integrated with a large diversity of functional moieties, such as targeting ligands, proteins, and inorganic nanoparticles, to enrich their functionalities and to enhance their performance. In this review, we start with introducing strategies on constructing DNA nanostructures. We then summarize the biological barriers ahead of drug delivery using DNA nanostructures, followed by introducing existing rational solutions to overcome these biological barriers. Lastly, we discuss challenges and opportunities for DNA nanostructures toward real applications in clinical settings.

Structure‐Based Varieties of Polymeric Nanocarriers and Influences of Their Physicochemical Properties on Drug Delivery Profiles

“…DNA‐based nanostructure development requires rational designing which is often difficult as their modification via sequence‐specific interactions demands high level of expertise. [ 77 ] Furthermore, improving the stability of such nanostructures requires additional attention. [ 78 ] Even though DNA molecules are naturally biocompatible, they may produce acute inflammatory response.…”

Clinical advances of RNA therapeutics for treatment of neurological and neuromuscular diseases

“…DNA nanostructures such as DNA cages are self-assembled into precise structures due to base-pairing and can be designed for optimal pharmacokinetic properties and loading potential including loading of RNA drugs[ 80 ]. The challenges of DNA nanostructures include low retention times due to degradation, poor cellular delivery due to endosomal breakdown, and preferential uptake into hepatic and renal tissues, however, BBB crossing of DNA cages has been reported[ 81 ].…”

DNA Based and Stimuli-Responsive Smart Nanocarrier for Diagnosis and Treatment of Cancer: Applications and Challenges

“…However, DNA nanostructures have internalized intracellularly because of the energy-dependent endocytosis process. Depending on their sizes, different types of endocytotic pathways carried DNA nanostructures inside the cells including phagocytosis (>0.5 µm size), caveolin-mediated endocytosis (60 nm), clathrin-mediated endocytosis (120 nm), macropinocytosis (>1 µm), and caveolin- and clathrin-independent pathways (90 nm) [ 171 ]. Moreover, the precise shape and geometry of DNA-based structures facilitated internalization.…”