ABSTRACT
Gene therapy is highly suited for prostate cancer (PC). Metal-organic-frameworks (MOFs) are potential gene delivery systems. Target-specific cytoplasmic and nuclear knockdown in host gene expression using ZIF-C is shown for the first time through RNAi and CRISPR/Cas9 based gene editing in PC cells. A green tea phytochemical coating enhances intracellular delivery.
Subject(s)
CRISPR-Associated Protein 9/antagonists & inhibitors , Metal-Organic Frameworks/pharmacology , Prostatic Neoplasms/drug therapy , RNA Interference/drug effects , CRISPR-Associated Protein 9/genetics , Gene Editing , Gene Transfer Techniques , Humans , Male , Metal-Organic Frameworks/chemistry , PC-3 Cells , Prostatic Neoplasms/geneticsABSTRACT
Few-layer black phosphorous (BP) has emerged as a promising candidate for next-generation nanophotonic and nanoelectronic devices. However, rapid ambient degradation of mechanically exfoliated BP poses challenges in its practical deployment in scalable devices. To date, the strategies employed to protect BP have relied upon preventing its exposure to atmospheric conditions. Here, an approach that allows this sensitive material to remain stable without requiring its isolation from the ambient environment is reported. The method draws inspiration from the unique ability of biological systems to avoid photo-oxidative damage caused by reactive oxygen species. Since BP undergoes similar photo-oxidative degradation, imidazolium-based ionic liquids are employed as quenchers of these damaging species on the BP surface. This chemical sequestration strategy allows BP to remain stable for over 13 weeks, while retaining its key electronic characteristics. This study opens opportunities to practically implement BP and other environmentally sensitive 2D materials for electronic applications.
