Adsorption of cell-penetrating peptide Tat2 and polycation luviquat FC-370 to triticale microspore exine

Plant biomacromolecule delivery methods in the 21st century

The 21st century witnessed a boom in plant genomics and gene characterization studies through RNA interference and site-directed mutagenesis. Specifically, the last 15 years marked a rapid increase in discovering and implementing different genome editing techniques. Methods to deliver gene editing reagents have also attempted to keep pace with the discovery and implementation of gene editing tools in plants. As a result, various transient/stable, quick/lengthy, expensive (requiring specialized equipment)/inexpensive, and versatile/specific (species, developmental stage, or tissue) methods were developed. A brief account of these methods with emphasis on recent developments is provided in this review article. Additionally, the strengths and limitations of each method are listed to allow the reader to select the most appropriate method for their specific studies. Finally, a perspective for future developments and needs in this research area is presented.

Cellular Delivery of Plasmid DNA into Wheat Microspores Using Rosette Nanotubes

Plant genetic engineering offers promising solutions to the increasing demand for efficient, sustainable, and high-yielding crop production as well as changing environmental conditions. The main challenge for gene delivery in plants is the presence of a cell wall that limits the transportation of genes within the cells. Microspores are plant cells that are, under the right conditions, capable of generating embryos, leading to the formation of haploid plants. Here, we designed cationic and fluorescent rosette nanotubes (RNTs) that penetrate the cell walls of viable wheat microspores under mild conditions and in the absence of an external force. These nanomaterials can capture plasmid DNA to form RNT-DNA complexes and transport their DNA cargo into live microspores. The nanomaterials and the complexes formed were nontoxic to the microspores.

Self-aggregation propensity of the Tat peptide revealed by UV-Vis, NMR and MD analyses

The self-aggregation propensity of unlabeled and TAMRA-labeled Tat₁₁ peptides has been revealed for the first time by UV-Vis, NMR and MD analyses.

The role of Tat peptide self-aggregation in membrane pore stabilization: insights from a computational study

Role of Tat peptide self-aggregation to direct transduction in cells is highlighted in a computational study of dimer versus monomer.