Macromolecular-based gene delivery systems have emerged as viable alternatives to non-viral vectors for gene therapy due to their versatility, biocompatibility, and capacity to efficiently deliver therapeutic cargo. These systems, primarily based on synthetic and natural polymers, offer significant advantages in terms of safety, controlled gene release, and targeted delivery. This review explores the design and synthesis of macromolecular carriers, focusing on their chemical and physical architectures, which play a key role in improving gene delivery. Catanionic polymers and their derivatives (comb, brush, and star polymers) have been extensively researched for their capacity to condense and protect genetic material. Furthermore, natural polymers like chitosan and hyaluronic acid have been modified to enhance gene delivery capabilities. These macromolecular carriers are engineered to boost circulation time, increase cellular uptake, and facilitate the controlled release of genetic material at the target site. Strategies such as incorporating targeting ligands, stimuli-responsive elements, and reducing cytotoxicity are being pursued to improve the overall efficiency and specificity of these systems. This review highlights the current state of macromolecular gene delivery systems, their applications, and the ongoing research aimed at overcoming existing challenges, paving the way for more effective non-viral gene therapies.

Precise prediction of rocket plume radiative heat flux is critical for reusable launch vehicle design. LandSpace researchers have developed a breakthrough computational method integrating the discrete transfer method (DTM) with wide-band k-distribution modeling. Validated against high-resolution benchmarks with ≤6.0% error, this approach achieves engineering-viable efficiency while quantifying base/sidewall radiative heating throughout flight profiles for nine-engine LOX/CH4 rockets – providing key insights for thermal protection system optimization.

Study shows plants adapted to farming and irrigation with root changes that helped corn adjust to low nitrogen and deeper water, making them key to the success of its domestication.

Scientists and chefs have collaborated on a new study that demonstrates how fermented foods can be used to drive participatory science projects that both engage the public and advance our understanding of microbial ecology. The study focused on working with food experts and the public to examine the microbial communities associated with kombucha, kimchi and chow chow.

A hybrid reading strategy for screening mammography, developed by Dutch researchers and deployed retrospectively to more than 40,000 exams, reduced radiologist workload by 38% without changing recall or cancer detection rates. The study, which emphasizes AI confidence, was published today.

New material rivals iridium for water splitting reaction at a fraction of the cost. Discovered using megalibraries, a high-speed materials synthesis and discovery tool, along with artificial intelligence and machine learning. Findings demonstrate a faster, AI-ready approach to discover advanced, optimized materials.