Abstract: An apparatus for implanting macromolecules such as genes, DNA or pharmaceuticals into a preselected surface tissue region of of a patient. An applicator having a plurality of electrodes is provided for contacting a surface tissue region of a patient. A mechanism associated with the applicator delivers a predetermined quantity of a fluid medium carrying the preselected macromolecules. A signal generator is provided for generating a predetermined electric signal. The electrodes of the applicator are connected to the signal generator for applying an electric field in the surface tissue region. The field has a predetermined strength and duration in order to make the walls of a plurality of cells in the surface tissue region transiently permeable to permit the macromolecules to enter said preselected cells without damaging said cells. This enhances the uptake of macromolecules and thus enhances the therapeutic effect achieved.

Abstract: A catheter device is inserted into a selected blood vessel of a patient and advanced to a preselected location within the blood vessel where the endothelial cells on the inner wall of the vessel are to be treated. Once in place, the catheter device is expanded so that a plurality of axially extending, circumferentially spaced electrodes carried thereby are in contact with the inner wall of the blood vessel. A fluid medium is then infused into the blood vessel adjacent the electrodes via a conventional pump. A power pack connected to the electrodes is energized to apply a predetermined electric signal to the electrodes. This subjects the endothelial cells to electric fields of predetermined amplitude and duration in order to make the walls of the endothelial cells transiently permeable to permit therapeutic genes or drugs carried by the fluid medium to enter the endothelial cells without killing them.

Abstract: An apparatus for implanting macromolecules such as genes, DNA or pharmaceuticals into a preselected tissue region such as a muscle or an organ of a patient. A modified syringe is provided for injecting a predetermined quantity of a fluid medium carrying the preselected macromolecules. A signal generator is connected to the syringe for generating a predetermined electric signal. The syringe includes a pair of electrodes which are connected to the signal generator for applying an electric field in the tissue region. The field has a predetermined strength and duration in order to make the walls of a plurality of cells in the tissue region transiently permeable to permit the macromolecules to enter said preselected cells without damaging said cells. This enhances the uptake of macromolecules and thus enhances the therapeutic effect achieved. Alternate embodiments having twin needles and a blade may be utilized.