Chitosan-Coated Red Fluorescent Protein Nanoparticle as a Potential Dual-Functional siRNA Carrier

AIMS: Developing safe and efficient nano vectors is critical for the success of siRNA therapy. MATERIALS & METHODS: By encapsulating red fluorescent protein (RFP) with chitosan (CS), a dual-functional siRNA delivery nano vector, RFP@CS, has been synthesized. RESULTS: RFP@CS has an optimum size of 7-23 nm for siRNA delivery; and the fluorescence of RFP, protected by CS coating, provides an excellent probe to track the delivery of siRNA. RFP@CS delivers siRNA efficiently into cells and the targeted gene could be completely silenced even after 48 h. No cytotoxicity or acute toxicity in mice was observed. CONCLUSION: The high transfection efficacy and safety demonstrate RFP@CS is a promising nano vector for the gene therapy.