SYNOPSIS
We prepared the DNA/cationic polyamino acid complex and examined their cell viability and histopathological responses. As cationic polyamino acids, poly-L-arginine (Poly-arg), poly-L-histidine (Poly-his) and poly-L-lysine (Poly-lys) were used. A water-insoluble white powder (DNA/poly-arg complex, DNA/poly-his complex and DNA/poly-lys complex) was obtained from the reaction of each cationic polyamino acid with DNA. The yields were approximately 37-45%. SEM observation revealed that prepared complexes had a porous structure. The porous disks could be easily prepared. In cell culture tests using L-929 mouse fibroblast cells, DNA/poly-arg and DNA/lys complexes showed slight cytotoxicity and DNA/poly-his complex showed moderate cytotoxicity. However, in vivo test, all complexes showed a mild tissue response after the implantation into the back of skin of rats. These results suggested that these complexes could be useful materials for biomaterials with functional properties such as pH responsibility and cell adhesion to be used as a scaffold.

Key words: DNA, DNA complex, polyamino acid, cytotoxicity, tissue response