Delivery of Genetic Materials for the Management of Biological Disorders: Advancement and Roles of Polysaccharides and their Derivatives

Abstract: Advancement in nanotechnology leads to the development of polysaccharides which are very efficient carriers in delivering therapeutic substances like drugs, proteins, and genes. This review describes the role of polysaccharides and their derivatives in the cellular targeting of genetic materials for the treatment of various biological disorders. Applications, challenges, advantages, and disadvantages of polysaccharides used in gene delivery are discussed in the manuscript. Cationic and natural polysaccharides are generally used for RNA and DNA delivery and exhibit better performance in gene transfection. After a substantial literature survey, it can be concluded that different polysaccharides and their derivatives are effectively used in the delivery of genetic material. Natural polysaccharides are widely used due to their advantageous properties like biocompatibility, biodegradability, and low toxicity in the biological environment.