Highly efficient gene transfection by a hyperosmotic polymannitol based gene tranporter through regulation of caveolae and COX-2 induced endocytosis.

The regulation of cellular uptake to cross the cell membrane is one of the key strategies of importance for efficient gene transfection of non-viral vectors. Hyperosmotic activity of polyplexes may facilitate crossing of the membrane barrier by elevating the osmolarity of the extracellular matrix. In this study, we demonstrated that a polymannitol based gene transporter (PMGT) utilizes the hyperosmoticity contributed by the polymannitol backbone leading to accelerated cellular uptake and enhanced gene transfection.

Distinct differentiation properties of human dental pulp cells on collagen, gelatin, and chitosan scaffolds.

Objective: The growth and differentiation properties of human dental pulp cells (HDPC) were investigated on a variety of natural scaffolds, including 2 types of collagen, gelatin, and chitosan.

Study Design: Cell attachment and growth rates of HDPC on collagen (type I and type III), gelatin, and chitosan were observed. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, mRNA expression of differentiation-related genes, and mineralization of the HDPC on each scaffold were assessed.