Cellular Uptake Mechanism of Non-Viral Gene Delivery and Means for Improving Transfection Efficiency

Non-viral delivery systems usually include mechanical, electrical, and chemical methods. Cationic liposomes and cationic polymers are two typical classes of non-viral vectors. Com‐ pared with viral vectors, non-viral ones are considered promising vehicles for gene therapy because of their low toxicity, biocompatibility, and controllability [1, 2], although their low efficacy limits their application as a mature gene delivery system. Improving the efficacy of non-viral vectors necessitates thorough understanding of their in vivo key steps. Non-viral vectors can complex with gene materials and help them access the target compartments within cells. Many barriers prevent gene materials from reaching their intended target and performing their functions [3], safe and effective delivery remains an important challenge for the clinical development of non-viral vectors [4].