The present invention relates to various methods of genetic immunization for the purpose of providing antigen-specific immunity in a mammalian host, including a human host. The invention is based on the ability to direct particulate polynucleotides which express an antigenic protein or protein fragment to the cytoplasm of host target cells, such as antigen presenting cells. A directed delivery of such particulate polynucleotides to the cytoplasm of antigen presenting cells will stimulate antigen-specific CTL production, thus promoting destruction of affected cells such as neoplastic cells and virally infected cells.