Project Description

In this project, students will gain experience in the basics of biomaterial development and testing, specifically in the field of gene therapy, using cell culture as a tool. Many diseases have genetic components that cannot be treated with traditional small-molecule drugs. However, the symptoms of genetic diseases could be effectively treated by adding or silencing specific genes inside of cells. This is accomplished by delivering specific sequences of DNA or RNA to cells by way of a “gene delivery vehicle”, such as cationic lipid-nucleic acid complexes. These complexes are made by mixing DNA and special lipids in water, where the lipids encapsulate the DNA and prepare it for delivery to cells.

Project Files

condor_techs_gene_delivery.pdf