Plasmid DNA as a safe gene delivery vehicle for treatment of chronic inflammatory disease

Background: The development of plasmid DNA (pDNA) vectors for safe and efficacious gene transfer therapy for chronic inflammatory diseases is a natural sequel to biological therapies which, whilst effective, are relatively expensive, require frequent administration and are not suitable for all patients. Objective: To outline the methods of non-viral gene therapy using pDNA and detail research on potential targets in the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases, with particular emphasis on multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Methods: A comprehensive online journal search was used to examine current approaches in pDNA transfer and practical applications in chronic inflammatory diseases; conditions with similar disease processes were also considered. Results/conclusion: Significant progress has been made in increasing the efficiency and efficacy of nonviral gene transfer. For modulation of inflammatory targets, the conversion of biological therapy to gene therapy using pDNA is achievable.