In recent years, retroviral-like particles (VLPs) have gained attention as promising tools for various applications in molecular biology and biotechnology due to their unique properties. Unlike traditional retroviral vectors, VLPs are devoid of viral genetic material, thereby minimizing the risk of genomic integration and unwanted genetic alterations in host cells. One notable example of VLPs is the Murine Leukemia Virus-like particles (MLVLPs), which have emerged as efficient carriers for delivering mRNAs into target cells. MLVLPs offer a safe and effective alternative for gene delivery, particularly in applications where transient expression of exogenous genes is desired without the risk of genomic integration. A key strategy employed in utilizing MLVLPs for RNA delivery involves the incorporation of specific RNA aptamers and their corresponding aptamer-binding proteins (ABPs) into the particle structure. RNA aptamers are brief, single-stranded RNA molecules characterized by their high affinity and specificity towards target molecules. These aptamers can be engineered to bind to various proteins with exceptional specificity, making them valuable tools for targeted delivery applications. Creative Biolabs provides several pairs of RNA aptamers and ABPs, which have been successfully employed in MLVLP-mediated RNA delivery systems. For example:
Each aptamer is specifically designed to bind with high affinity to its corresponding ABP, facilitating the efficient encapsulation of RNA cargo within the MLVLP structure. This selective binding ensures precise delivery of the desired RNA payload to target cells or tissues, enhancing the efficacy and specificity of gene delivery applications.
In general, incorporating RNA aptamers and ABPs into MLVLP-based delivery systems is a potent approach for achieving precise and efficient RNA delivery. Figure 1 illustrates the utilization of the MS2 and MCP interaction for the MLVLP-mediated delivery of Cas9 mRNA. To achieve this, the nucleocapsid protein within the Gag protein was substituted with 2 copies of MCP, and 2 copies of the MS2 aptamer were introduced into the 3' UTR of Cas9 mRNA at various positions along with sgRNA. This strategy aimed to utilize MS2/MCP interactions to effectively entrap Cas9 mRNA and sgRNA within the VLPs. These MLVLPs effectively induced DNA mutations across a variety of murine and human cell lines, encompassing human T cells, primary human fibroblasts, and CD34+ stem and progenitor cells derived from cord blood.
Fig.1 The MS2 and MCP interaction for MLVLP-mediated delivery of Cas9 mRNA.1
Creative Biolabs is dedicated to providing top-tier MLVLPs services globally. Our services encompass MLVLPs production, purification, and titer titration, alongside comprehensive offerings for aptamer design and synthesis. Reach out to us for further details, and we assure you of our unparalleled service quality.
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