Therapeutic potential of low-intensity ultrasound (part 2): biomolecular effects, sonotransfection, and sonopermeabilization

Part one of this review focused on the thermal and mechanical effects of low-intensity ultrasound (US). In this second and final part of the review, we will focus on and discuss various aspects of low-intensity US, with emphasis on the biomolecular effects, US-mediated gene transfection (sonotransfection), and US-mediated permeabilization (sonopermeabilization). Sonotransfection of different cell lines in vitro and target tissues in vivo have been reported. Optimization experiments have been done and different mechanisms investigated. It has also been found that several genes can be up-regulated or down-regulated by sonication. As to the potential therapeutic applications, systemic or local sonotransfection might also be a safe and effective gene therapy method in effecting the cure of local and systemic disorders. Gene regulation of target cells may be utilized in modifying cellular response to a treatment, such as increasing the sensitivity of diseased cells while making normal cells resistant to the side effects of a treatment. Advances in sonodynamic therapy and drug sonopermeabilization also offer an ever-increasing array of therapeutic options for low-intensity US.