AuNP Development for Nucleic Acid Delivery

CD Formulation has a wealth of experience functionalizing gold surfaces and effectively coupling oligonucleotides. Our team of formulation scientists has developed advanced conjugation methods that are tailored to maximize the delivery efficacy of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs).

Why Choose AuNPs to Deliver Nucleic Acid?

Gold nanoparticles are widely used for nucleic acid delivery due to their unique properties. Their small size, ease of synthesis, and surface functionalization capabilities make them excellent carriers of nucleic acids. AuNPs can efficiently encapsulate and protect nucleic acids from degradation, facilitate cellular uptake, and enhance gene transfection efficiency. Additionally, their tunable surface chemistry allows for targeted delivery and surface modification of ligands for specific cell recognition.

Schematic diagram of positively charged AuNPs delivering nucleic acids (Ding Y.; et al. 2014)

How Do We Develop AuNPs to Deliver Nucleic Acid?

• DNA-AuNP Conjugate Development

We have developed proprietary bioconjugation methods using thiolated linkers to stably associate oligonucleotides to gold surfaces. Single-stranded DNA is first modified at the 5' end with a thiol group, then incubated with pre-formed gold nanoparticles under optimized conditions. The high affinity of gold-thiol bonds allows for efficient self-assembly and controlled DNA loading.

• RNA-AuNP Conjugate Development

Conjugating RNA to AuNPs at CD Formulation involves a well-established and efficient process. We modified single-stranded RNA with thiol groups at the 3' end through click chemistry, and then mixed the thiolated RNA with AuNPs to generate covalent bonds and electrostatic forces between the gold surface and the thiol groups. The resulting nanoparticles facilitate endosomal escape and intracellular activity.

• Supramolecular Assembly

At CD Formulation, we utilize supramolecular assembly technology to develop AuNPs for efficient nucleic acid delivery. This innovative approach involves the self-assembly of AuNPs with molecular components such as cationic polymers, peptides or small molecules. These ingredients are carefully selected to form stable complexes or coatings on the surface of gold nanoparticles and to interact with nucleic acids.

Key Parameters of AuNPs We Developed

Applications of Our AuNP Development Services

• Nucleic Acid Vaccine Research

We design AuNPs for targeted delivery of DNA and mRNA vaccines against infectious diseases and cancer.

• Gene Drug Research 

Our particles carry genetic payloads like antisense oligos, siRNA and CRISPR components for modulating gene expression and editing genes.

• Cell Transfection Research

AuNPs developed using our surface chemistry expertise efficiently transfect in vitro cell lines and ex vivo tissue models.

Advantages of Our AuNP Development Services

• Our AuNPs find applications in various fields, including drug delivery, diagnostics, imaging, and therapeutics.
• Our AuNP development services efficiently deliver nucleic acids, such as DNA or RNA, into cells, facilitating gene therapy, genetic vaccines, and gene modulation research.
• Our expertise allows for precise surface functionalization of AuNPs, enabling targeted delivery, specific cell recognition, and incorporation of ligands or antibodies for enhanced therapeutic efficacy.
• We offer control over the size and surface properties of AuNPs, allowing customization to meet specific requirements, including cellular uptake, biodistribution, and controlled release.

CD Formulation provides innovative approaches to advance biomedical research and applications of nucleic acids. Contact us to discuss leveraging our platform technology and multi-disciplinary expertise. An initial consultation can help determine the best gold nanoparticle approach for your application and accelerate project progress.