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Abstract
Since the first published examination of poly(ethylenimine) (PEI) as a gene delivery
vehicle, there has been a flurry of research aimed at this polycation and its role
in gene therapy. Here we will briefly review PEI chemistry and the characterization
of PEI/DNA complexes used for gene delivery. Additionally, we will note various PEI
transfection considerations and examine findings involving other polycationic gene
delivery vehicles used with cellular targeting ligands. The current state of our knowledge
regarding the mechanism of PEI/DNA transfection will also be discussed. Finally, we
will survey toxicity issues related to PEI transfection.