Nanostructured Hyaluronic Acid-based Materials for the Delivery of siRNA

Background: The search for the effective treatment strategies to combat a disease that is characterized by abnormal cell growth and known as cancer is still required to reach its destiny. To address the problem, recently several gene therapies based on novel RNA interference (RNAi) have been proposed such as siRNA, micro RNA, shRNA, etc. out of which, siRNAs (silencing RNA) promises to show significant progress in pharmacotherapy, including considerable expansion of the druggable target space and the possibility of treating cancer. Methods: This review aims to uncover the hyaluronic acid (HA) and HA-hybridized nanoplatforms for siRNA delivery systems with a particular focus on the discussion of available reports while addressing the future potential of HA-based treatment strategies. Results: HA modified siRNA delivery, as promised, provided better targeting potential in many types of cancers. In addition, it was able to modify the release of siRNA as well. Toxicity of HA is well mentioned however, the loophole is yet to be filled by exploring various remedies for overcoming toxicity. Conclusion: To overcome the problems associated with these emerging genetic tools, investigators have employed glycosaminoglycan HA-based biopolymers. This biopolymer offers a variety of properties such as biodegradability, biocompatibility, aqueous solubility, viscoelasticity, and non-immunogenicity.