Simultaneous gene delivery and tracking of cells using fluorescent upconversion nanoparticles for cell therapy

Abstract

Cell therapy has attained new heights with the current developments in the field of stem cell therapy and is often done in combination with gene therapy. Much research has gone into developing safe vectors to deliver genes to the cells used for cell therapy and also in tracking the transplanted cells and determining their fate. Even though viral vectors are very efficient in gene delivery, there are major safety concerns related to it. Herein, we report the use of novel fluorescent upconversion nanoparticles (UCNs) for simultaneous gene delivery and tracking of cells for cell-based therapies. It is a safe alternative to viral vectors and offers imaging capabilities too, which will give an insight on the fate of transplanted cells. © 2011 Materials Research Society.