Encapsulation of Plasmid DNA by Nanoscale Metal–Organic Frameworks for Efficient Gene Transportation and Expression

Abstract The intracellular delivery and functionalization of genetic molecules play critical roles in gene‐based theranostics. In particular, the delivery of plasmid DNA (pDNA) with safe nonviral vectors for efficient intracellular gene expression has received increasing attention; however, it still has some limitations. A facile one‐pot method is employed to encapsulate pDNA into zeolitic imidazole framework‐8 (ZIF‐8) and ZIF‐8‐polymer vectors via biomimetic mineralization and coprecipitation. The pDNA molecules are found to be well distributed inside both nanostructures and benefit from their protection against enzymatic degradation. Moreover, through the use of a polyethyleneimine (PEI) 25 kD capping agent, the nanostructures exhibit enhanced loading capacity, better pH responsive release, and stronger binding affinity to pDNA. From in vitro experiments, the cellular uptake and endosomal escape of the protected pDNA are greatly improved with the superior ZIF‐8‐PEI 25 kD vector, leading to successful gene expression with high transfection efficacy, comparable to expensive commercial agents. New cost‐effective avenues to develop metal–organic‐framework‐based nonviral vectors for efficient gene delivery and expression are provided.