Intracellular delivery of nanoparticles with CPPs.

Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs), in particular TATp, have been widely used for intracellular delivery of various cargoes, both in vitro and in vivo. Modifications of nanoparticles with CPPs require either covalent or noncovalent approach. Here we describe various methods to attach CPP, such as TATp to surface of nanocarriers (such as liposomes and micelles), loading with drug or DNA and characterization of same for in vitro and in vivo applications. Due to nonselectivity of CPPs and wide distribution in nontarget areas, method for preparation of "smart" nanocarrier with hidden TATp function is also described.