Cationic star copolymers based on β-cyclodextrins for efficient gene delivery to mouse embryonic stem cell colonies

Abstract

A cationic star copolymer with a β-cyclodextrin core was developed for nonviral gene transfer to mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs). The copolymer comprises poly(2-dimethyl aminoethyl methacrylate) as the cationic component and poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) as the non-toxic stealth component. These materials have very low toxicity and show highly efficient transfection to mESC colonies.