Purpose: To determine whether a reporter gene carried by liposomes can be introduced into the ocular tissues in vivo by different routes of administration.
Methods: Three different kinds of liposomes carrying plasmid DNA with beta-galactosidase gene were applied topically to the eye or were injected into the anterior chamber, subretinal space, and vitreous of adult Wistar rats. Gene expression was detected by enzymatic color reaction using X-gal as a substrate in enucleated eyes 1 day, 1 week, and 1 month after topical application or injection.
Results: Topical application could transfer the gene to retinal ganglion cells. Injection into the anterior chamber delivered the gene to the basal layer of the corneal epithelium, ciliary epithelium, stroma of the ciliary body and iris, and retinal ganglion cells. Injection into the vitreous or subretinal space resulted in the expression of the gene in the ciliary epithelium, stroma of the ciliary body and iris, retinal ganglion cells, and retinal pigment epithelial cells.
Conclusions: Efficient and stable transfer of the functional gene could be achieved by liposomes in the cornea, iris, ciliary body, and retina of rats. Liposomes appear to be a promising vehicle for delivering therapeutic genes in vivo to mammalian intraocular tissues.