J026011 Optical fiber-based gene transfer system for endoscopic application

Abstract

We have been applying photomechanical waves (PMWs), which are generated by the irradiation of a laser-absorbing material (target) with nanosecond laser pulses, to gene transfer iv vivo. In this study, we developed an optical-fiber-based gene transfer system for its endoscopic application. A fiber tip with a target film covered with a transparent plastic disk for plasma confinement, by which peak pressure and impulse of PMWs can be increased, was attached to a quartz fiber. The target film was irradiated with nanosecond laser pulses transmitted through the fiber to generate PMWs. Characteristics of PMWs emitted from the fiber tip were examined to confirm the necessary conditions for gene transfer. We then attempted to transfer reporter genes to the rat skin as a test tissue in vivo with the fiber system. The results showed significantly high protein levels and spatially selective pinpoint gene expressions in the tissue.