Background: The development of plasmid DNA (pDNA) vectors for safe and efficacious gene transfer therapy for chronic inflammatory diseases is a natural sequel to biological therapies which, whilst effective, are relatively expensive, require frequent administration and are not suitable for all patients.
Objective: To outline the methods of non-viral gene therapy using pDNA and detail research on potential targets in the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases, with particular emphasis on multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
Methods: A comprehensive online journal search was used to examine current approaches in pDNA transfer and practical applications in chronic inflammatory diseases; conditions with similar disease processes were also considered.
Results/conclusion: Significant progress has been made in increasing the efficiency and efficacy of non-viral gene transfer. For modulation of inflammatory targets, the conversion of biological therapy to gene therapy using pDNA is achievable.