Resolution of Lymphedema with Induced Lymphangiogenesis Using Tissue Nanotransfection Technology
Abstract
Lymphedema is characterized by lymphatic vessel dysfunction causing accumulation of extracellular fluid in peripheral tissues resulting in limb enlargement. Lymphedema is on the spectrum of vascular anomaly diseases. Lymphedema can be primary (malformed lymphatic system) or secondary (acquired from traumatic injury, radiation, parasitic infection). Any inciting significant trauma to the lower extremities, groin, or axilla can lead to lymphedema. It is estimated that 20-40 percent of patients, including military veterans, who undergo treatment for solid malignancies such as breast cancer, melanoma, gynecological or urologic tumors, or sarcomas develop lymphedema. There is no cure for this progressive, life-long disease. This study uses a novel, non-viral nanotechnology-based approach with tissue nanotransfection technology (TNT) to manage lymphedema by inducing lymphangiogenesis in a mouse tail model of lymphedema. TNT facilitates direct, transcutaneous gene delivery using a chip with nanochannels in a rapid (less than 100ms) focused electric field. The feasibility of TNT for in vivo gene delivery has been established and validated for other applications in animal models. This innovative method can potentially establish a clinically translatable new interventional paradigm to treat lymphedema by point-of-care focal upregulation of lymphangiogenic genes. Translational significance of this research project involves lymphangiogenesis using TNT being focal and not global. Furthermore, the technology is non-invasive, portable and can be administered in the field.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2022
- Accession Number
- AD1169485
Entities
People
- Aladdin H. Hassanein