Proteinaceous microspheres for targeted RNA delivery prepared by an ultrasonic emulsification method

Abstract

In the present work we used sonochemically prepared proteinaceous BSA spheres as a novel RNA-delivery system. The preparation of RNA-loaded BSA spheres was accomplished using an environmental friendly method termed the “ultrasonic emulsification method”. It was demonstrated that ultrasonic waves do not cause the RNA chains to degrade and the RNA molecules remain untouched. The BSA–RNA complex was successfully introduced into mammalian (human) U2OS osteosarcoma cells and Trypanosoma brucei parasites. Using PVA coating of the RNA–BSA spheres we have achieved a significant increase in the number of microspheres penetrating mammalian cells. The mechanism of RNA encapsulation and the structure of the RNA–BSA complex are reported.