The use of small interfering RNA (siRNA) to change the protein composition within cellular systems is becoming an increasingly prevalent method for combatting diseases at the level of gene expression. However, several barriers exist that hinder the therapeutic use of siRNA in living cells such as inefficient delivery into target cells, rapid degradation in physiological conditions, endosomal entrapment, and more. Recent developments in nanoparticles as transfection agents for transporting siRNA into cells have proven to overcome the aforementioned hurdles in therapeutic applications of siRNA. This study investigates the use of NaYF4:Yb,Er@NaYF4 upconverting nanoparticles (UCNP) to track the intracellular fate of siRNA in HeLa cells. Understanding the mechanism of cellular uptake, and intracellular trafficking of siRNA conjugated UCNPs, can provide greater insight into the types of surface chemistry required for optimal delivery of siRNA into cellular cytosol.

Investigating the Intracellular Fate of NaYF4:Yb,Er@NaYF4 conjugated siRNA in HeLa Cells

253rd National Meeting (2017)

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