A summary on non-viral systems for gene delivery based on natural and synthetic polymers

Gene delivery systems necessitate the gene therapy, which is a unique approach for applying the tunable genes to treat any diseases. To tackle down the disadvantages of viral vectors like high cost, poor target cell specificity, and inability in transferring the large size genes, the non-viral vectors/carriers have been introduced for achieving better efficacy in gene therapy. A variety of carriers including liposomes, metallic/polymeric nanoparticles, dendrimers, gelatins, quantum dots/rods, etc. has been depicted distinct features in the gene therapy. Herein, the advances and applications of natural/synthetic polymeric carriers have been summarized in gene therapy and disadvantages/challenges have been also discussed.