Question

Vector unpacking is generally assumed to be necessary for DNA release and gene expression, but the extent to which dissociation affects gene delivery is unclear.

detail . what is "Vector unpacking "??????

Answer 1

In laboratory experiments plasmid DNA is transfected in to the target cells by using lipoplex or polyplex mediated delivery (where polycation condenses DNA and facilitate its entry in to the cells).

These polyplex complexes are taken up by cells by endocytosis. Once these polyplex complexes enter the nucleus, inorder to be processed by RNA polymerases, the DNA has to be dissociated from the polycation complex to undergo transcription.

This last step where polyplexes disassemble to allow the transcription apparatus of the cell to access the DNA efficiently to promote gene expresssion is called as Vector unpacking.

The more the dissociation, the more effective will be gene delivery and transcription.