RESUMO
<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To evaluate the efficacy of gene delivery to the right lateral lobe of the rat liver via a branch of the bile duct using naked DNA.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>We evaluated regional gene delivery to the right lateral lobe of the rat liver via a branch of the bile duct, using naked DNA, including pGL3, pCMV beta and Cy3 labeled CMV beta.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Gene expression was observed in right lateral lobe of both the damaged and the normal rats liver. The gene delivery efficiency was similar in two groups (P > 0.05). Gene expression was found in the right lateral lobe of damaged and normal livers. Fluorescence was observed in the region of the portal triads, and occasionally, in the lobule.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Retrograde infusion of naked DNA via the bile duct is an effective way to deliver genes to in both damaged and normal rat liver.</p>