Self-Assembled Viruses Efficiently Carry Genes And Drug Molecules Into Tumor Cells

Korean scientists had made artificial viruses which are able to bring effective genes and drugs inside the tumor cells that cause cancer. Viruses are able to transfer genetic material into the cells and can cause diseases. Instead of using natural viruses for the treatment of diseases, scientist prepared artificial virus to transport genetic material which does not have any side-effects. A team of Korean researchers, headed by Myogsoo Lee, made these artificial viruses with protein, small interfering RNAs (siRNA), and glucose building blocks.

The researchers started with a ribbonlike protein structure (²-sheet) as their template. The protein ribbons organized themselves into a defined threadlike double layer that sets the shape and size. Coupled to the outside are "protein arms" that bind short RNA helices and embed them. (Credit: Image courtesy of Wiley-Blackwell)

The ribbon-like protein structure (β-sheet) work as template and forms a threadlike double layer by itself which is useful to maintain its size and shape. Outer “protein arms” are inserted into the short RNA helices. These are called small interfering RNAs and have sequences complementary to a specific gene sequences which are able to block the information of that specific gene; and it is useful for gene therapy. These viruses have glucose binding blocks on their surfaces which help them to bind with the glucose transporters of the target cells. These transporter cells are found in all mammals’ cells, especially on the tumor cells. Experiments on human cancer cells improved that insertion of siRNA through artificial viruses worked successfully in blocking the target genes. The researchers also added hydrophobic molecules to artificial viruses which serve as a dye. Then, the dye was inserted into the nuclei of tumor cells because “… the nucleus is the target for many important antitumor agents” (Wiley-Blackwell).