Liposome-based DNA carriers may induce cellular stress response and change gene expression pattern in transfected cells
2011

Liposome-based DNA carriers and their effects on gene expression

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Anna Fiszer-Kierzkowska, Natalia Vydra, Aleksandra Wysocka-Wycisk, Zuzana Kronekova, Michał Jarząb, Katarzyna Marta Lisowska, Zdzisław Krawczyk

Primary Institution: Center for Translational Research and Molecular Biology of Cancer, Maria Skłodowska-Curie Memorial Center and Institute of Oncology, Gliwice Branch

Hypothesis

Do liposome-based DNA carriers induce cellular stress responses and alter gene expression patterns in transfected cells?

Conclusion

Some cationic liposomes may not be suitable for functional studies on hsp promoters, and lipofection can cause unintended changes in global gene expression in transfected cells.

Supporting Evidence

  • Lipofectin and Lipofectamine 2000 were found to activate the Hspa1b promoter at physiological temperatures.
  • Microarray analysis revealed significant changes in gene expression in cells treated with Lipofectamine.
  • The study identified specific regulatory elements in the Hspa1b promoter responsible for liposome-induced transcriptional activation.

Takeaway

Some liposomes used to deliver DNA into cells can accidentally turn on stress genes, which might confuse scientists studying those genes.

Methodology

The study involved transient transfections using various liposome formulations and analyzed gene expression changes using microarrays.

Potential Biases

Potential bias due to the use of specific liposome formulations that may not represent all types.

Limitations

Not every liposome formulation induces hsp transcription, and the study focused on specific cell lines.

Participant Demographics

Mouse melanoma B16F10 cells and rat hepatoma FTO cells were used in the study.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Statistical Significance

p<0.001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2199-12-27

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