Transfection of cells with custom-made calcium phosphate nanoparticles coated with DNA

Functionalised nanoparticles of calcium phosphate were prepared by controlled precipitation from aqueous solution, followed by coating with DNA. A successful transfection of transformed human endothelial cells was accomplished by adding the dispersion of nanoparticles to the cell culture. The functionalised nanoparticles formed a stable colloid and did not lose their ability for cell transfection during 2-3 weeks of storage. The nanoparticles were approximately spherical with diameters of 10 to 20 nm and covered and stabilised by a hull of DNA.