Multilayered polyelectrolyte assemblies as a delivery system for biomedical applications.

This thesis presents the results of the development of a new gene delivery system, based on polymer capsules with subsequent optical characterization in vitro and in vivo. The biggest advantages of biodegradable polymer capsules compared to other non-viral carriers include their superior loading capacity, low toxicity, size control and high colloidal stability. Polymer capsules have great advantages for application in gene therapy. An efficient delivery system is the main component for the successful introduction of a gene therapy into real clinical practice.

A preliminary conclusion of the current study is that biocompatible polyelectrolyte capsules can be efficiently used for the delivery of biologically active compounds to many types of cells including transfection-resistant target cells. The obtained data ensures that biodegradable capsules will endure not only as an ultimate tool for transferring nucleic acid for in vitro systems but that they can also be used for the development of novel treatments for patients requiring routine drug administration.