Modification of SPION Nanocarriers for Sirna Delivery: A Therapeutic Strategy Against HIV Infection

Introduction: To date, while many studies have investigated antiviral agents or vaccines against HIV, success has been limited. In this field, mutagenesis of the viral genome mostly contributes to the viral escape from the antiretroviral therapies as well as the emergence of resistant strains of HIV-1 to pharmaceutical therapy. Therefore, developing alternative methods, including more effective vaccines, antiviral therapies (such as RNAi therapy) and delivery systems, seem to be necessary to compensate for these issues. The aim of this research was to establish an efficient system for siRNA delivery as a safe anti-HIV therapeutic approach. Methods: Chitosan-coated superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPION) was investigated as a method for RNA delivery. After generating HEK293 stable cells (expressing HIV-1 tat), a potent siRNA against HIV-1 tat was designed and the effectiveness of the modified SPION in siRNA delivery to HEK293 cells was evaluated. Results: The optimal concentration (50 μg/mL) of the modified SPION-containing anti-tat siRNA (with a range size of 50-70 nm and average zeta potential of +25 mV) was significantly internalized into the cells and decreased the expression of HIV-1 tat, more than 80%. Moreover, the nanoparticles showed no considerable toxicity on the cells. Conclusion: SPION could be optimized as a probable RNA/vaccine delivery system into target cells. Therefore, this study offers a therapeutic strategy against HIV or other infectious diseases.