AuNPs-DNA non-covalent interactions: improve of some studies and new avenues of research from negative results

Abstract

Due to their chemical stability, high biocompatibility, excellent structural, optical, magnetic and catalytic properties, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have been widely used as therapeutics, delivery agents and transfection vectors. Since successful therapy for curing cancer, and other genetic diseases, requires the transport of DNA into the cell by delivery vehicles, the effective complexation of the DNA is a subject of great interest. In this sense, increasing concerns have been raised in regards to the thermodynamics and kinetics of non-covalent interactions of AuNPs with DNA. Although insights have been gained into the effects of AuNPs on DNA systems, there is still much ground to be covered, particularly in respect to our knowledge of the binding modes, conformational changes, the salt effects and the aggregation properties of these systems. This review highlights recent progress in the study of the interactive effects of AuNPs with DNA and the factors that influence the kinetics and thermodynamic of this interaction.