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Wu S, Lin L, Shi L, Liu S. An overview of lipid constituents in lipid nanoparticle mRNA delivery systems. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2024; 16:e1978. [PMID: 38965928 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
mRNA therapeutics have shown great potential for a broad spectrum of disease treatment. However, the challenges of mRNA's inherent instability and difficulty in cellular entry have hindered its progress in the biomedical field. To address the cellular barriers and deliver mRNA to cells of interest, various delivery systems are designed. Among these, lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) stand out as the most extensively used mRNA delivery systems, particularly following the clinical approvals of corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) mRNA vaccines. LNPs are comprised of ionizable cationic lipids, phospholipids, cholesterol, and polyethylene glycol derived lipids (PEG-lipids). In this review, we primarily summarize the recent advancements of the LNP mRNA delivery technology, focusing on the structures of four lipid constituents and their biomedical applications. We delve into structure-activity relationships of the lipids, while also exploring the future prospects and challenges in developing more efficacious mRNA delivery systems. This article is categorized under: Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies Biology-Inspired Nanomaterials > Lipid-Based Structures Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiqi Wu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lixin Lin
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lu Shi
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shuai Liu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Delivery and Release Systems, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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2
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Ahmed T. Lipid nanoparticle mediated small interfering RNA delivery as a potential therapy for Alzheimer's disease. Eur J Neurosci 2024; 59:2915-2954. [PMID: 38622050 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative condition that exhibits a gradual decline in cognitive function and is prevalent among a significant number of individuals globally. The use of small interfering RNA (siRNA) molecules in RNA interference (RNAi) presents a promising therapeutic strategy for AD. Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have been developed as a delivery vehicle for siRNA, which can selectively suppress target genes, by enhancing cellular uptake and safeguarding siRNA from degradation. Numerous research studies have exhibited the effectiveness of LNP-mediated siRNA delivery in reducing amyloid beta (Aβ) levels and enhancing cognitive function in animal models of AD. The feasibility of employing LNP-mediated siRNA delivery as a therapeutic approach for AD is emphasized by the encouraging outcomes reported in clinical studies for other medical conditions. The use of LNP-mediated siRNA delivery has emerged as a promising strategy to slow down or even reverse the progression of AD by targeting the synthesis of tau phosphorylation and other genes linked to the condition. Improvement of the delivery mechanism and determination of the most suitable siRNA targets are crucial for the efficacious management of AD. This review focuses on the delivery of siRNA through LNPs as a promising therapeutic strategy for AD, based on the available literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanvir Ahmed
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, North South University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
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3
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Chen C, Xia G, Zhang S, Tian Y, Wang Y, Zhao D, Xu H. Omics-based approaches for discovering active ingredients and regulating gut microbiota of Actinidia arguta exosome-like nanoparticles. Food Funct 2024; 15:5238-5250. [PMID: 38632897 DOI: 10.1039/d3fo05783f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Exosome-like nanoparticles (ELNs) are novel naturally occurring plant ultrastructures and contain unique bioactive components. However, the potential applications and biological functions of plant ELNs, especially in the context of health promotion and disease prevention, remain largely unexplored. This study aimed to explore the biological activities and functional mechanisms of Actinidia arguta-derived exosome-like nanoparticles (AAELNs). We reported the development of AAELNs, which possess particle sizes of 157.8 nm and a negative surface charge of -23.07 mV, uptaking by RAW264.7 cells, and reduction of oxidative stress by decreasing the activity of GSH-Px and T-SOD and increasing the content of MDA. Through the use of high-throughput sequencing technology, 12 known miRNA families and 23 additional miRNAs were identified in AAELNs, GO and KEGG term enrichment analysis revealed the potential of AAELNs-miRNAs in modulating neural-relevant behaviors. Additionally, LC-MS/MS analysis detected a total of 32 major lipid classes, 430 lipid subclasses, and 1345 proteins in AAELNs. Furthermore, in vivo fluorescence disappearance and in vitro fermentation experiments demonstrated that AAELNs were able to enter the colon and improve the microbial structure. These findings suggest that AAELNs could serve as nanoshuttles in food, potentially offering health-enhancing properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunping Chen
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, College of Agricultural, Yanbian University, Yanji 133000, Jilin, China.
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, College of Integration Science, Yanbian University, Yanji 133000, Jilin, China
| | - Guangjun Xia
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agricultural, Yanbian University, Yanji 133000, Jilin, China
| | - Song Zhang
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, College of Agricultural, Yanbian University, Yanji 133000, Jilin, China.
| | - Yuxin Tian
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, College of Agricultural, Yanbian University, Yanji 133000, Jilin, China.
| | - Yuchen Wang
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, College of Integration Science, Yanbian University, Yanji 133000, Jilin, China
| | - Duanduan Zhao
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, College of Integration Science, Yanbian University, Yanji 133000, Jilin, China
| | - Hongyan Xu
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, College of Agricultural, Yanbian University, Yanji 133000, Jilin, China.
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, College of Integration Science, Yanbian University, Yanji 133000, Jilin, China
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4
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Pawar S, Pingale P, Garkal A, Osmani RAM, Gajbhiye K, Kulkarni M, Pardeshi K, Mehta T, Rajput A. Unlocking the potential of nanocarrier-mediated mRNA delivery across diverse biomedical frontiers: A comprehensive review. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 267:131139. [PMID: 38615863 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.131139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) has gained marvelous attention for managing and preventing various conditions like cancer, Alzheimer's, infectious diseases, etc. Due to the quick development and success of the COVID-19 mRNA-based vaccines, mRNA has recently grown in prominence. A lot of products are in clinical trials and some are already FDA-approved. However, still improvements in line of optimizing stability and delivery, reducing immunogenicity, increasing efficiency, expanding therapeutic applications, scalability and manufacturing, and long-term safety monitoring are needed. The delivery of mRNA via a nanocarrier system gives a synergistic outcome for managing chronic and complicated conditions. The modified nanocarrier-loaded mRNA has excellent potential as a therapeutic strategy. This emerging platform covers a wide range of diseases, recently, several clinical studies are ongoing and numerous publications are coming out every year. Still, many unexplained physical, biological, and technical problems of mRNA for safer human consumption. These complications were addressed with various nanocarrier formulations. This review systematically summarizes the solved problems and applications of nanocarrier-based mRNA delivery. The modified nanocarrier mRNA meaningfully improved mRNA stability and abridged its immunogenicity issues. Furthermore, several strategies were discussed that can be an effective solution in the future for managing complicated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Smita Pawar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, N.P. Marg, Matunga (E), Mumbai 400019, Maharashtra, India
| | - Prashant Pingale
- Department of Pharmaceutics, GES's Sir Dr. M. S. Gosavi College of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Nashik 422005, Maharashtra, India
| | - Atul Garkal
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Institute of Pharmacy, Nirma University, Ahmedabad 382481, Gujarat, India; Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Riyaz Ali M Osmani
- Department of Pharmaceutics, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, Karnataka, India
| | - Kavita Gajbhiye
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Bharti Vidyapeeth Deemed University, Poona College of Pharmacy, Erandwane, Pune 411038, Maharashtra, India
| | - Madhur Kulkarni
- SCES's Indira College of Pharmacy, New Pune Mumbai Highway, Tathwade 411033, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Krutika Pardeshi
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sandip University, Nashik 422213, Maharashtra, India
| | - Tejal Mehta
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Institute of Pharmacy, Nirma University, Ahmedabad 382481, Gujarat, India
| | - Amarjitsing Rajput
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Bharti Vidyapeeth Deemed University, Poona College of Pharmacy, Erandwane, Pune 411038, Maharashtra, India.
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5
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Kim J, Jozić A, Bloom E, Jones B, Marra M, Murthy NTV, Eygeris Y, Sahay G. Microfluidic Platform Enables Shearless Aerosolization of Lipid Nanoparticles for mRNA Inhalation. ACS NANO 2024; 18:11335-11348. [PMID: 38621181 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c00768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Leveraging the extensive surface area of the lungs for gene therapy, the inhalation route offers distinct advantages for delivery. Clinical nebulizers that employ vibrating mesh technology are the standard choice for converting liquid medicines into aerosols. However, they have limitations when it comes to delivering mRNA through inhalation, including severe damage to nanoparticles due to shearing forces. Here, we introduce a microfluidic aerosolization platform (MAP) that preserves the structural and physicochemical integrity of lipid nanoparticles, enabling safe and efficient delivery of mRNA to the respiratory system. Our results demonstrated the superiority of the MAP over the conventional vibrating mesh nebulizer, as it avoided problems such as particle aggregation, loss of mRNA encapsulation, and deformation of the nanoparticle morphology. Notably, aerosolized nanoparticles generated by the microfluidic device led to enhanced transfection efficiency across various cell lines. In vivo experiments with mice that inhaled these aerosolized nanoparticles revealed successful lung-specific mRNA transfection without observable signs of toxicity. This MAP may represent an advancement for the pulmonary gene therapy, enabling precise and effective delivery of aerosolized nanoparticles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeonghwan Kim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Portland, Oregon 97201, United States
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, Republic of Korea
| | - Antony Jozić
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Portland, Oregon 97201, United States
| | - Elissa Bloom
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Portland, Oregon 97201, United States
| | - Brian Jones
- Funai Microfluidic Systems, Lexington, Kentucky 40508, United States
| | - Michael Marra
- Funai Microfluidic Systems, Lexington, Kentucky 40508, United States
| | | | - Yulia Eygeris
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Portland, Oregon 97201, United States
| | - Gaurav Sahay
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Portland, Oregon 97201, United States
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97201, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Robertson Life Sciences Building, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97201, United States
- Center for Innovative Drug Delivery and Imaging, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Portland, Oregon 97201, United States
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6
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Shin S, Ahn YR, Kim M, Choi J, Kim H, Kim HO. Mammalian Cell Membrane Hybrid Polymersomes for mRNA Delivery. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024. [PMID: 38615329 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c00843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Cell membranes are structures essential to the cell function and adaptation. Recent studies have targeted cell membranes to identify their protective and interactive properties. Leveraging these attributes of cellular membranes and their application to vaccine delivery is gaining increasing prominence. This study aimed to fuse synthetic polymeric nanoparticles with cell membranes to develop cell membrane hybrid polymersomes (HyPSomes) for enhanced vaccine delivery. We designed a platform to hybridize cell membranes with methoxy-poly(ethylene glycol)-block-polylactic acid nanoparticles by using the properties of both components. The formed HyPSomes were optimized by using dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy, and Förster resonance energy transfer, and their stability was confirmed. The synthesized HyPSomes replicated the antigenic surface of the source cells and possessed the stability and efficacy of synthetic nanoparticles. These HyPSomes demonstrated enhanced cellular uptake and translation efficiency and facilitated endosome escape. HyPSomes showed outstanding capabilities for the delivery of foreign mRNAs to antigen-presenting cells. HyPSomes may serve as vaccine delivery systems by bridging the gap between synthetic and natural systems. These systems could be used in other contexts, e.g., diagnostics and drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- SoJin Shin
- Division of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, College of Art, Culture and Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon-si 24341, Gangwon-do, Korea
- Department of Smart Health Science and Technology, College of Art, Culture and Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon-si 24341, Gangwon-do, Korea
| | - Yu-Rim Ahn
- Division of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, College of Art, Culture and Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon-si 24341, Gangwon-do, Korea
- Department of Smart Health Science and Technology, College of Art, Culture and Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon-si 24341, Gangwon-do, Korea
| | - Minse Kim
- Division of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, College of Art, Culture and Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon-si 24341, Gangwon-do, Korea
- Department of Smart Health Science and Technology, College of Art, Culture and Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon-si 24341, Gangwon-do, Korea
| | - Jaewon Choi
- Division of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, College of Art, Culture and Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon-si 24341, Gangwon-do, Korea
- Department of Smart Health Science and Technology, College of Art, Culture and Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon-si 24341, Gangwon-do, Korea
| | - HakSeon Kim
- Division of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, College of Art, Culture and Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon-si 24341, Gangwon-do, Korea
- Department of Smart Health Science and Technology, College of Art, Culture and Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon-si 24341, Gangwon-do, Korea
| | - Hyun-Ouk Kim
- Division of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, College of Art, Culture and Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon-si 24341, Gangwon-do, Korea
- Department of Smart Health Science and Technology, College of Art, Culture and Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon-si 24341, Gangwon-do, Korea
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7
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Neary MT, Mulder LM, Kowalski PS, MacLoughlin R, Crean AM, Ryan KB. Nebulised delivery of RNA formulations to the lungs: From aerosol to cytosol. J Control Release 2024; 366:812-833. [PMID: 38101753 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
In the past decade RNA-based therapies such as small interfering RNA (siRNA) and messenger RNA (mRNA) have emerged as new and ground-breaking therapeutic agents for the treatment and prevention of many conditions from viral infection to cancer. Most clinically approved RNA therapies are parenterally administered which impacts patient compliance and adds to healthcare costs. Pulmonary administration via inhalation is a non-invasive means to deliver RNA and offers an attractive alternative to injection. Nebulisation is a particularly appealing method due to the capacity to deliver large RNA doses during tidal breathing. In this review, we discuss the unique physiological barriers presented by the lung to efficient nebulised RNA delivery and approaches adopted to circumvent this problem. Additionally, the different types of nebulisers are evaluated from the perspective of their suitability for RNA delivery. Furthermore, we discuss recent preclinical studies involving nebulisation of RNA and analysis in in vitro and in vivo settings. Several studies have also demonstrated the importance of an effective delivery vector in RNA nebulisation therefore we assess the variety of lipid, polymeric and hybrid-based delivery systems utilised to date. We also consider the outlook for nebulised RNA medicinal products and the hurdles which must be overcome for successful clinical translation. In summary, nebulised RNA delivery has demonstrated promising potential for the treatment of several lung-related conditions such as asthma, COPD and cystic fibrosis, to which the mode of delivery is of crucial importance for clinical success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael T Neary
- SSPC, The SFI Research Centre for Pharmaceuticals, School of Pharmacy, University College Cork, Ireland; School of Pharmacy, University College Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Piotr S Kowalski
- School of Pharmacy, University College Cork, Ireland; APC Microbiome, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Abina M Crean
- SSPC, The SFI Research Centre for Pharmaceuticals, School of Pharmacy, University College Cork, Ireland; School of Pharmacy, University College Cork, Ireland
| | - Katie B Ryan
- SSPC, The SFI Research Centre for Pharmaceuticals, School of Pharmacy, University College Cork, Ireland; School of Pharmacy, University College Cork, Ireland.
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8
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Schober GB, Story S, Arya DP. A careful look at lipid nanoparticle characterization: analysis of benchmark formulations for encapsulation of RNA cargo size gradient. Sci Rep 2024; 14:2403. [PMID: 38287070 PMCID: PMC10824725 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-52685-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
With the recent success of lipid nanoparticle (LNP) based SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines, the potential for RNA therapeutics has gained widespread attention. LNPs are promising non-viral delivery vectors to protect and deliver delicate RNA therapeutics, which are ineffective and susceptible to degradation alone. While food and drug administration (FDA) approved formulations have shown significant promise, benchmark lipid formulations still require optimization and improvement. In addition, the translatability of these formulations for several different RNA cargo sizes has not been compared under the same conditions. Herein we analyze "gold standard" lipid formulations for encapsulation efficiency of various non-specific RNA cargo lengths representing antisense oligonucleotides (ASO), small interfering RNA (siRNA), RNA aptamers, and messenger RNA (mRNA), with lengths of 10 bases, 21 base pairs, 96 bases, 996 bases, and 1929 bases, respectively. We evaluate encapsulation efficiency as the percentage of input RNA encapsulated in the final LNP product (EEinput%), which shows discrepancy with the traditional calculation of encapsulation efficiency (EE%). EEinput% is shown to be < 50% for all formulations tested, when EE% is consistently > 85%. We also compared formulations for LNP size (Z-average) and polydispersity index (PDI). LNP size does not appear to be strongly influenced by cargo size, which is a counterintuitive finding. Thoughtful characterization of LNPs, in parallel with consideration of in vitro or in vivo behavior, will guide design and optimization for better understanding and improvement of future RNA therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Dev P Arya
- NUBAD LLC, Greer, 29650, USA.
- Department of Chemistry, Clemson University, Clemson, 29631, USA.
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9
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Kim J, Jozic A, Bloom E, Jones B, Marra M, Murthy NTV, Eygeris Y, Sahay G. Microfluidic platform enables shear-less aerosolization of lipid nanoparticles for messenger RNA inhalation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.17.576136. [PMID: 38293192 PMCID: PMC10827149 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.17.576136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Leveraging the extensive surface area of the lungs for gene therapy, inhalation route offers distinct advantages for delivery. Clinical nebulizers that employ vibrating mesh technology are the standard choice for converting liquid medicines into aerosols. However, they have limitations when it comes to delivering mRNA through inhalation, including severe damage to nanoparticles due to shearing forces. Here, we introduce a novel microfluidic aerosolization platform (MAP) that preserves the structural and physicochemical integrity of lipid nanoparticles, enabling safe and efficient mRNA delivery to the respiratory system. Our results demonstrated the superiority of the novel MAP over the conventional vibrating mesh nebulizer, as it avoided problems such as particle aggregation, loss of mRNA encapsulation, and deformation of nanoparticle morphology. Notably, aerosolized nanoparticles generated by the microfluidic device led to enhanced transfection efficiency across various cell lines. In vivo experiments with mice that inhaled these aerosolized nanoparticles revealed successful, lung-specific mRNA transfection without observable signs of toxicity. This pioneering MAP represents a significant advancement for the pulmonary gene therapy, enabling precise and effective delivery of aerosolized nanoparticles.
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10
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Jia Y, Wang X, Li L, Li F, Zhang J, Liang XJ. Lipid Nanoparticles Optimized for Targeting and Release of Nucleic Acid. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2305300. [PMID: 37547955 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202305300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are currently the most promising clinical nucleic acids drug delivery vehicles. LNPs prevent the degradation of cargo nucleic acids during blood circulation. Upon entry into the cell, specific components of the lipid nanoparticles can promote the endosomal escape of nucleic acids. These are the basic properties of lipid nanoparticles as nucleic acid carriers. As LNPs exhibit hepatic aggregation characteristics, enhancing targeting out of the liver is a crucial way to improve LNPs administrated in vivo. Meanwhile, endosomal escape of nucleic acids loaded in LNPs is often considered inadequate, and therefore, much effort is devoted to enhancing the intracellular release efficiency of nucleic acids. Here, different strategies to efficiently deliver nucleic acid delivery from LNPs are concluded and their mechanisms are investigated. In addition, based on the information on LNPs that are in clinical trials or have completed clinical trials, the issues that are necessary to be approached in the clinical translation of LNPs are discussed, which it is hoped will shed light on the development of LNP nucleic acid drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaru Jia
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis of the Ministry of Education, Chemical Biology Key Laboratory of HeBei University, Baoding, 071002, P. R. China
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, No. 11, First North Road, Zhongguancun, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
| | - Xiuguang Wang
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis of the Ministry of Education, Chemical Biology Key Laboratory of HeBei University, Baoding, 071002, P. R. China
| | - Luwei Li
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis of the Ministry of Education, Chemical Biology Key Laboratory of HeBei University, Baoding, 071002, P. R. China
| | - Fangzhou Li
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, No. 11, First North Road, Zhongguancun, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
| | - Jinchao Zhang
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis of the Ministry of Education, Chemical Biology Key Laboratory of HeBei University, Baoding, 071002, P. R. China
| | - Xing-Jie Liang
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis of the Ministry of Education, Chemical Biology Key Laboratory of HeBei University, Baoding, 071002, P. R. China
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, No. 11, First North Road, Zhongguancun, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
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11
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Huang P, Deng H, Wang C, Zhou Y, Chen X. Cellular Trafficking of Nanotechnology-Mediated mRNA Delivery. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023:e2307822. [PMID: 37929780 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202307822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA)-based therapy has emerged as a powerful, safe, and rapidly scalable therapeutic approach that involves technologies for both mRNA itself and the delivery vehicle. Although there are some unique challenges for different applications of mRNA therapy, a common challenge for all mRNA therapeutics is the transport of mRNA into the target cell cytoplasm for sufficient protein expression. This review is focused on the behaviors at the cellular level of nanotechnology-mediated mRNA delivery systems, which have not been comprehensively reviewed yet. First, the four main therapeutic applications of mRNA are introduced, including immunotherapy, protein replacement therapy, genome editing, and cellular reprogramming. Second, common types of mRNA cargos and mRNA delivery systems are summarized. Third, strategies to enhance mRNA delivery efficiency during the cellular trafficking process are highlighted, including accumulation to the cell, internalization into the cell, endosomal escape, release of mRNA from the nanocarrier, and translation of mRNA into protein. Finally, the challenges and opportunities for the development of nanotechnology-mediated mRNA delivery systems are presented. This review can provide new insights into the future fabrication of mRNA nanocarriers with desirable cellular trafficking performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Huang
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119074, Singapore
- Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Hongzhang Deng
- School of Life Science and Technology and Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging, Ministry of Education, Xidian University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710126, China
| | - Changrong Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology and Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging, Ministry of Education, Xidian University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710126, China
| | - Yongfeng Zhou
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Xiaoyuan Chen
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119074, Singapore
- Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
- Clinical Imaging Research Centre, Centre for Translational Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive Proteos, Singapore, 138673, Singapore
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12
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Ali MS, Hooshmand N, El-Sayed M, Labouta HI. Microfluidics for Development of Lipid Nanoparticles: Paving the Way for Nucleic Acids to the Clinic. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2023; 6:3566-3576. [PMID: 35014835 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.1c00732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Nucleic acid therapeutics hold an unprecedented promise toward treating many challenging diseases; however, their use is hampered by delivery issues. Microfluidics, dealing with fluids in the microscale dimensions, have provided a robust means to screening raw materials for development of nano delivery vectors, in addition to controlling their size and minimizing their polydispersity. In this mini-review, we are briefly highlighting the different types of nucleic acid therapies with emphasis on the delivery requirement for each type. We provide a thorough review of available methods for the development of nanoparticles, especially lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) that resulted in FDA approval of the first ever nucleic acid nanomedicine. We then focus on recent research attempts for how microfluidic synthesis of lipid nanoparticles and discuss the various parameters required for successful formulation of LPNs including chip design, flow regimes, and lipid composition. We then identify key areas of research in microfluidics and related fields that require attention for future success in clinical translation of nucleic acid nanomedicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moustafa S Ali
- College of Pharmacy, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E 0T5, Canada
- Children Hospital's Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E 3P4, Canada
| | - Nasrin Hooshmand
- Laser Dynamics Laboratory, School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, United States
| | - Mostafa El-Sayed
- Laser Dynamics Laboratory, School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, United States
| | - Hagar I Labouta
- College of Pharmacy, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E 0T5, Canada
- Children Hospital's Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E 3P4, Canada
- Biomedical Engineering, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg R3T 5V6, Canada
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21521, Egypt
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13
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Golubovic A, Tsai S, Li B. Bioinspired Lipid Nanocarriers for RNA Delivery. ACS BIO & MED CHEM AU 2023; 3:114-136. [PMID: 37101812 PMCID: PMC10125326 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomedchemau.2c00073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
RNA therapy is a disruptive technology comprising a rapidly expanding category of drugs. Further translation of RNA therapies to the clinic will improve the treatment of many diseases and help enable personalized medicine. However, in vivo delivery of RNA remains challenging due to the lack of appropriate delivery tools. Current state-of-the-art carriers such as ionizable lipid nanoparticles still face significant challenges, including frequent localization to clearance-associated organs and limited (1-2%) endosomal escape. Thus, delivery vehicles must be improved to further unlock the full potential of RNA therapeutics. An emerging strategy is to modify existing or new lipid nanocarriers by incorporating bioinspired design principles. This method generally aims to improve tissue targeting, cellular uptake, and endosomal escape, addressing some of the critical issues facing the field. In this review, we introduce the different strategies for creating bioinspired lipid-based RNA carriers and discuss the potential implications of each strategy based on reported findings. These strategies include incorporating naturally derived lipids into existing nanocarriers and mimicking bioderived molecules, viruses, and exosomes. We evaluate each strategy based on the critical factors required for delivery vehicles to succeed. Finally, we point to areas of research that should be furthered to enable the more successful rational design of lipid nanocarriers for RNA delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Golubovic
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Shannon Tsai
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Bowen Li
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3M2, Canada
- Institute
of Biomedical Engineering, University of
Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G9, Canada
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14
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A Comprehensive Review of mRNA Vaccines. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032700. [PMID: 36769023 PMCID: PMC9917162 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
mRNA vaccines have been demonstrated as a powerful alternative to traditional conventional vaccines because of their high potency, safety and efficacy, capacity for rapid clinical development, and potential for rapid, low-cost manufacturing. These vaccines have progressed from being a mere curiosity to emerging as COVID-19 pandemic vaccine front-runners. The advancements in the field of nanotechnology for developing delivery vehicles for mRNA vaccines are highly significant. In this review we have summarized each and every aspect of the mRNA vaccine. The article describes the mRNA structure, its pharmacological function of immunity induction, lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), and the upstream, downstream, and formulation process of mRNA vaccine manufacturing. Additionally, mRNA vaccines in clinical trials are also described. A deep dive into the future perspectives of mRNA vaccines, such as its freeze-drying, delivery systems, and LNPs targeting antigen-presenting cells and dendritic cells, are also summarized.
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15
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Recent Advances in Lipid Nanoparticles for Delivery of mRNA. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14122682. [PMID: 36559175 PMCID: PMC9787894 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14122682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA), which is composed of ribonucleotides that carry genetic information and direct protein synthesis, is transcribed from a strand of DNA as a template. On this basis, mRNA technology can take advantage of the body's own translation system to express proteins with multiple functions for the treatment of various diseases. Due to the advancement of mRNA synthesis and purification, modification and sequence optimization technologies, and the emerging lipid nanomaterials and other delivery systems, mRNA therapeutic regimens are becoming clinically feasible and exhibit significant reliability in mRNA stability, translation efficiency, and controlled immunogenicity. Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), currently the leading non-viral delivery vehicles, have made many exciting advances in clinical translation as part of the COVID-19 vaccines and therefore have the potential to accelerate the clinical translation of gene drugs. Additionally, due to their small size, biocompatibility, and biodegradability, LNPs can effectively deliver nucleic acids into cells, which is particularly important for the current mRNA regimens. Therefore, the cutting-edge LNP@mRNA regimens hold great promise for cancer vaccines, infectious disease prevention, protein replacement therapy, gene editing, and rare disease treatment. To shed more lights on LNP@mRNA, this paper mainly discusses the rational of choosing LNPs as the non-viral vectors to deliver mRNA, the general rules for mRNA optimization and LNP preparation, and the various parameters affecting the delivery efficiency of LNP@mRNA, and finally summarizes the current research status as well as the current challenges. The latest research progress of LNPs in the treatment of other diseases such as oncological, cardiovascular, and infectious diseases is also given. Finally, the future applications and perspectives for LNP@mRNA are generally introduced.
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16
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Kim J, Jozic A, Mukherjee A, Nelson D, Chiem K, Khan MSR, Torrelles JB, Martinez‐Sobrido L, Sahay G. Rapid Generation of Circulating and Mucosal Decoy Human ACE2 using mRNA Nanotherapeutics for the Potential Treatment of SARS-CoV-2. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2202556. [PMID: 36216580 PMCID: PMC9762296 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202202556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can cause lethal pulmonary damage in humans. It contains spike proteins on its envelope that bind to human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (hACE2) expressed on airway cells, enabling entry of the virus, and causing infection. The soluble form of hACE2 binds SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, prevents viral entry into target cells, and ameliorates lung injury; however, its short half-life limits therapeutic utilities. Here, synthetic mRNA is engineered to encode a soluble form of hACE2 (hsACE2) to prevent viral infection. A novel lipid nanoparticle (LNP) is used for packaging and delivering mRNA to cells to produce hsACE2 proteins. Intravenously administered LNP delivers mRNA to hepatocytes, leading to the production of circulatory hsACE2 initiated within 2 h and sustained over several days. Inhaled LNP results in lung transfection and secretion of mucosal hsACE2 to lung epithelia, the primary site of entry and pathogenesis for SARS-CoV-2. Furthermore, mRNA-generated hsACE2 binds to the receptor-binding domain of the viral spike protein. Finally, hsACE2 effectively inhibits SARS-CoV-2 and its pseudoviruses from infecting host cells. The proof of principle study shows that mRNA-based nanotherapeutics can be potentially deployed to neutralize SARS-CoV-2 and open new treatment opportunities for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeonghwan Kim
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesCollege of PharmacyRobertson Life Sciences BuildingOregon State UniversityPortlandOR97201USA
| | - Antony Jozic
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesCollege of PharmacyRobertson Life Sciences BuildingOregon State UniversityPortlandOR97201USA
| | - Anindit Mukherjee
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesCollege of PharmacyRobertson Life Sciences BuildingOregon State UniversityPortlandOR97201USA
| | - Dylan Nelson
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesCollege of PharmacyRobertson Life Sciences BuildingOregon State UniversityPortlandOR97201USA
- High‐Throughput Screening Services LaboratoryCollege of PharmacyOregon State UniversityCorvallisOR97331USA
| | - Kevin Chiem
- Disease Prevention and Interventionand Population Health ProgramsTexas Biomedical Research InstituteSan AntonioTX78227USA
| | - Md Siddiqur Rahman Khan
- Disease Prevention and Interventionand Population Health ProgramsTexas Biomedical Research InstituteSan AntonioTX78227USA
| | - Jordi B. Torrelles
- Disease Prevention and Interventionand Population Health ProgramsTexas Biomedical Research InstituteSan AntonioTX78227USA
| | - Luis Martinez‐Sobrido
- Disease Prevention and Interventionand Population Health ProgramsTexas Biomedical Research InstituteSan AntonioTX78227USA
| | - Gaurav Sahay
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesCollege of PharmacyRobertson Life Sciences BuildingOregon State UniversityPortlandOR97201USA
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringRobertson Life Sciences BuildingOregon Health & Science UniversityPortlandOR97201USA
- Department of OphthalmologyCasey Eye InstituteOregon Health & Science UniversityPortlandOR97239USA
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17
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Gao C, Cheng K, Li Y, Gong R, Zhao X, Nie G, Ren H. Injectable Immunotherapeutic Hydrogel Containing RNA-Loaded Lipid Nanoparticles Reshapes Tumor Microenvironment for Pancreatic Cancer Therapy. NANO LETTERS 2022; 22:8801-8809. [PMID: 36251255 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.2c01994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer immunotherapy is becoming a promising strategy for improving the survival rate of postsurgical patients. However, the low response rate to immunotherapy suggests a low number of antigen-specific T cells and a high number of immunosuppressive tumor-associated macrophages in the pancreatic tumor microenvironment. Herein, we developed an in situ injectable thermosensitive chitosan hydrogel loaded with lipid-immune regulatory factor 5 (IRF5) mRNA/C-C chemokine ligand 5 (CCL5) siRNA (LPR) nanoparticle complexes (LPR@CHG) that reprogram the antitumoral immune niche. The LPR@CHG hydrogel upregulates IRF5 and downregulates CCL5 secretion, which contribute to a significant increase in M1 phenotype macrophages. Tumor growth is controlled by effective M1 phenotype macrophage that initiate T cell-mediated immune responses. Overall, the LPR@CHG hydrogel is expected to be a meaningful immunotherapy platform that can reshape the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and improve the efficacy of current pancreatic immunotherapies while minimizing systemic toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Gao
- Center for GI Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment, Tumor Immunology and Cytotherapy, Medical Research Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Keman Cheng
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Yao Li
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing 100190, China
- Institute of Smart Biomedical Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Ruining Gong
- Center for GI Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment, Tumor Immunology and Cytotherapy, Medical Research Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Xiao Zhao
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing 100190, China
- Center of Materials Science and Optoelectronics Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Guangjun Nie
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing 100190, China
- Center of Materials Science and Optoelectronics Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - He Ren
- Center for GI Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment, Tumor Immunology and Cytotherapy, Medical Research Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, China
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18
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siRNA Functionalized Lipid Nanoparticles (LNPs) in Management of Diseases. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14112520. [PMID: 36432711 PMCID: PMC9694336 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14112520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
RNAi (RNA interference)-based technology is emerging as a versatile tool which has been widely utilized in the treatment of various diseases. siRNA can alter gene expression by binding to the target mRNA and thereby inhibiting its translation. This remarkable potential of siRNA makes it a useful candidate, and it has been successively used in the treatment of diseases, including cancer. However, certain properties of siRNA such as its large size and susceptibility to degradation by RNases are major drawbacks of using this technology at the broader scale. To overcome these challenges, there is a requirement for versatile tools for safe and efficient delivery of siRNA to its target site. Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have been extensively explored to this end, and this paper reviews different types of LNPs, namely liposomes, solid lipid NPs, nanostructured lipid carriers, and nanoemulsions, to highlight this delivery mode. The materials and methods of preparation of the LNPs have been described here, and pertinent physicochemical properties such as particle size, surface charge, surface modifications, and PEGylation in enhancing the delivery performance (stability and specificity) have been summarized. We have discussed in detail various challenges facing LNPs and various strategies to overcome biological barriers to undertake the safe delivery of siRNA to a target site. We additionally highlighted representative therapeutic applications of LNP formulations with siRNA that may offer unique therapeutic benefits in such wide areas as acute myeloid leukaemia, breast cancer, liver disease, hepatitis B and COVID-19 as recent examples.
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19
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Henderson MI, Eygeris Y, Jozic A, Herrera M, Sahay G. Leveraging Biological Buffers for Efficient Messenger RNA Delivery via Lipid Nanoparticles. Mol Pharm 2022; 19:4275-4285. [PMID: 36129254 PMCID: PMC9916253 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.2c00587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticles containing messenger RNA (mRNA-LNPs) have launched to the forefront of nonviral delivery systems with their realized potential during the COVID-19 pandemic. Here, we investigate the impact of commonly used biological buffers on the performance and durability of mRNA-LNPs. We tested the compatibility of three common buffers─HEPES, Tris, and phosphate-buffered saline─with a DLin-MC3-DMA mRNA-LNP formulation before and after a single controlled freeze-thaw cycle. We hypothesized that buffer composition would affect lipid-aqueous phase separation. Indeed, the buffers imposed structural changes in LNP morphology as indicated by electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and membrane fluidity assays. We employed in vitro and in vivo models to measure mRNA transfection and found that Tris or HEPES-buffered LNPs yielded better cryoprotection and transfection efficiency compared to PBS. Understanding the effects of various buffers on LNP morphology and efficacy provides valuable insights into maintaining the stability of LNPs after long-term storage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael I Henderson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Portland, Oregon 97201, United States
| | - Yulia Eygeris
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Portland, Oregon 97201, United States
| | - Antony Jozic
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Portland, Oregon 97201, United States
| | - Marco Herrera
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Portland, Oregon 97201, United States
| | - Gaurav Sahay
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Portland, Oregon 97201, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97201, United States
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239, United States
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20
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Khare P, Conway JF, S Manickam D. Lipidoid nanoparticles increase ATP uptake into hypoxic brain endothelial cells. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2022; 180:238-250. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2022.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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21
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Kim J, Jozic A, Lin Y, Eygeris Y, Bloom E, Tan X, Acosta C, MacDonald KD, Welsher KD, Sahay G. Engineering Lipid Nanoparticles for Enhanced Intracellular Delivery of mRNA through Inhalation. ACS NANO 2022; 16:14792-14806. [PMID: 36038136 PMCID: PMC9939008 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.2c05647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Despite lipid nanoparticles' (LNPs) success in the effective and safe delivery of mRNA vaccines, an inhalation-based mRNA therapy for lung diseases remains challenging. LNPs tend to disintegrate due to shear stress during aerosolization, leading to ineffective delivery. Therefore, LNPs need to remain stable through the process of nebulization and mucus penetration, yet labile enough for endosomal escape. To meet these opposing needs, we utilized PEG lipid to enhance the surficial stability of LNPs with the inclusion of a cholesterol analog, β-sitosterol, to improve endosomal escape. Increased PEG concentrations in LNPs enhanced the shear resistance and mucus penetration, while β-sitosterol provided LNPs with a polyhedral shape, facilitating endosomal escape. The optimized LNPs exhibited a uniform particle distribution, a polyhedral morphology, and a rapid mucosal diffusion with enhanced gene transfection. Inhaled LNPs led to localized protein production in the mouse lung without pulmonary or systemic toxicity. Repeated administration of these LNPs led to sustained protein production in the lungs. Lastly, mRNA encoding the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) was delivered after nebulization to a CFTR-deficient animal model, resulting in the pulmonary expression of this therapeutic protein. This study demonstrated the rational design approach for clinical translation of inhalable LNP-based mRNA therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeonghwan Kim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Robertson Life Sciences Building, Oregon State University, Portland, OR, 97201, USA
| | - Antony Jozic
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Robertson Life Sciences Building, Oregon State University, Portland, OR, 97201, USA
| | - Yuxin Lin
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
| | - Yulia Eygeris
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Robertson Life Sciences Building, Oregon State University, Portland, OR, 97201, USA
| | - Elissa Bloom
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Robertson Life Sciences Building, Oregon State University, Portland, OR, 97201, USA
| | - Xiaochen Tan
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
| | - Christopher Acosta
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Robertson Life Sciences Building, Oregon State University, Portland, OR, 97201, USA
| | - Kelvin D. MacDonald
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Kevin D. Welsher
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
| | - Gaurav Sahay
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Robertson Life Sciences Building, Oregon State University, Portland, OR, 97201, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Robertson Life Sciences Building, Oregon Health Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
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22
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Hydroxycholesterol substitution in ionizable lipid nanoparticles for mRNA delivery to T cells. J Control Release 2022; 347:521-532. [PMID: 35569584 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Delivery of nucleic acids, such as mRNA, to immune cells has become a major focus in the past decade with ionizable lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) emerging as a clinically-validated delivery platform. LNPs-typically composed of ionizable lipids, cholesterol, phospholipids, and polyethylene glycol lipids -have been designed and optimized for a variety of applications including cancer therapies, vaccines, and gene editing. However, LNPs have only recently been investigated for delivery to T cells, which has various therapeutic applications including the engineering of T cell immunotherapies. While several LNP formulations have been evaluated for mRNA delivery, recent work has demonstrated that the utilization of cholesterol analogs may enhance mRNA delivery. Other studies have shown that cholesterols modified with hydroxyl groups can alter endocytic recycling mechanisms. Here, we engineered a library of LNPs incorporating hydroxycholesterols to evaluate their impact on mRNA delivery to T cells by leveraging endosomal trafficking mechanisms. Substitution of 25% and 50% 7α-hydroxycholesterol for cholesterol in LNPs enhanced mRNA delivery to primary human T cells ex vivo by 1.8-fold and 2.0-fold, respectively. Investigation of endosomal trafficking revealed that these modifications also increase late endosome production and reduce the presence of recycling endosomes. These results suggest that hydroxyl modification of cholesterol molecules incorporated into LNP formulations provides a mechanism for improving delivery of nucleic acid cargo to T cells for a range of immunotherapy applications.
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23
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Lotter C, Alter CL, Bolten JS, Detampel P, Palivan CG, Einfalt T, Huwyler J. Incorporation of phosphatidylserine improves efficiency of lipid based gene delivery systems. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2022; 172:134-143. [PMID: 35181492 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2022.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
The essential homeostatic process of dead cell clearance (efferocytosis) is used by viruses in an act of apoptotic mimicry. Among others, virions leverage phosphatidylserine (PS) as an essential "eat me" signal in viral envelopes to increase their infectivity. In a virus-inspired biomimetic approach, we demonstrate that PS can be incorporated into non-viral lipid nanoparticle (LNP) pDNA/mRNA constructs to enhance cellular transfection. The inclusion of the bioactive PS leads to an increased ability of LNPs to deliver nucleic acids invitro to cultured HuH-7 hepatocellular carcinoma cells resulting in a 6-fold enhanced expression of a transgene. Optimal PS concentrations are in the range of 2.5 to 5% of total lipids. PS-decorated mRNA-LNPs show a 5.2-fold enhancement of invivo transfection efficiency as compared to mRNA-LNPs devoid of PS. Effects were less pronounced for PS-decorated pDNA-LNPs (3.2-fold increase). Incorporation of small, defined amounts of PS into gene delivery vectors opens new avenues for efficient gene therapy and can be easily extended to other therapeutic systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Lotter
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Claudio Luca Alter
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland; Swiss Nanoscience Institute, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 82, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jan Stephan Bolten
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Pascal Detampel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Cornelia G Palivan
- Swiss Nanoscience Institute, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 82, 4056 Basel, Switzerland; Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Mattenstrasse 24a, BPR 1096, 4003 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Tomaž Einfalt
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jörg Huwyler
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland.
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24
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Abstract
Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are a type of lipid vesicles that possess a homogeneous lipid core. These vesicles are widely used in small-molecule drug and nucleic acid delivery and recently gained much attention because of their remarkable success as a delivery platform for COVID-19 mRNA vaccines. Nonetheless, the utility of transient protein expression induced by mRNA extends far beyond vaccines against infectious diseases─they also hold promise as cancer vaccines, protein replacement therapies, and gene editing components for rare genetic diseases. However, naked mRNA is inherently unstable and prone to rapid degradation by nucleases and self-hydrolysis. Encapsulation of mRNA within LNPs protects mRNA from extracellular ribonucleases and assists with intracellular mRNA delivery.In this Account, we discuss the core features of LNPs for RNA delivery. We focus our attention on LNPs designed to deliver mRNA; however, we also include examples of siRNA-LNP delivery where appropriate to highlight the commonalities and the dissimilarities due to the nucleic acid structure. First, we introduce the concept of LNPs, the advantages and disadvantages of utilizing nucleic acids as therapeutic agents, and the general reasoning behind the molecular makeup of LNPs. We also briefly highlight the most recent clinical successes of LNP-based nucleic acid therapies. Second, we describe the theory and methods of LNP self-assembly. The common idea behind all of the preparation methods is inducing electrostatic interactions between the nucleic acid and charged lipids and promoting nanoparticle growth via hydrophobic interactions. Third, we break down the LNP composition with special attention to the fundamental properties and purposes of each component. This includes the identified molecular design criteria, commercial sourcing, impact on intracellular trafficking, and contribution to the properties of LNPs. One of the key components of LNPs is ionizable lipids, which initiate electrostatic binding with endosomal membranes and facilitate cytosolic release; however, the roles of other lipid components should not be disregarded, as they are associated with stability, clearance, and distribution of LNPs. Fourth, we review the attributes of LNP constructs as a whole that can heavily influence RNA delivery. These attributes are LNP size, charge, internal structure, lipid packing, lipid membrane hydration, stability, and affinity toward biomacromolecules. We also discuss the specific techniques used to examine these attributes and how they can be adjusted. Finally, we offer our perspective on the future of RNA therapies and some questions that remain in the realm of LNP formulation and optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulia Eygeris
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Robertson Life Science Building, 2730 South Moody Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97201, United States
| | - Mohit Gupta
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Robertson Life Science Building, 2730 South Moody Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97201, United States
| | - Jeonghwan Kim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Robertson Life Science Building, 2730 South Moody Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97201, United States
| | - Gaurav Sahay
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Robertson Life Science Building, 2730 South Moody Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97201, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health & Science University, Robertson Life Science Building, 2730 South Moody Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97201, United States
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239, United States
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25
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Khare P, Dave KM, Kamte YS, Manoharan MA, O'Donnell LA, Manickam DS. Development of Lipidoid Nanoparticles for siRNA Delivery to Neural Cells. AAPS J 2021; 24:8. [PMID: 34873640 PMCID: PMC8648339 DOI: 10.1208/s12248-021-00653-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Lipidoid nanoparticles (LNPs) are the delivery platform in Onpattro, the first FDA-approved siRNA drug. LNPs are also the carriers in the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 mRNA vaccines. While these applications have demonstrated that LNPs effectively deliver nucleic acids to hepatic and muscle cells, it is unclear if LNPs could be used for delivery of siRNA to neural cells, which are notoriously challenging delivery targets. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine if LNPs could efficiently deliver siRNA to neurons. Because of their potential delivery utility in either applications for the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system, we used both cortical neurons and sensory neurons. We prepared siRNA-LNPs using C12-200, a benchmark ionizable cationic lipidoid along with helper lipids. We demonstrated using dynamic light scattering that the inclusion of both siRNA and PEG-lipid provided a stabilizing effect to the LNP particle diameters and polydispersity indices by minimizing aggregation. We found that siRNA-LNPs were safely tolerated by primary dorsal root ganglion neurons. Flow cytometry analysis revealed that Cy5 siRNA delivered via LNPs into rat primary cortical neurons showed uptake levels similar to Lipofectamine RNAiMAX-the gold standard commercial transfection agent. However, LNPs demonstrated a superior safety profile, whereas the Lipofectamine-mediated uptake was concomitant with significant toxicity. Fluorescence microscopy demonstrated a time-dependent increase in the uptake of LNP-delivered Cy5 siRNA in a human cortical neuron cell line. Overall, our results suggest that LNPs are a viable platform that can be optimized for delivery of therapeutic siRNAs to neural cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Purva Khare
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Duquesne University, 453 Mellon Hall, 600 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15282, USA
| | - Kandarp M Dave
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Duquesne University, 453 Mellon Hall, 600 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15282, USA
| | - Yashika S Kamte
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Duquesne University, 453 Mellon Hall, 600 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15282, USA
| | | | - Lauren A O'Donnell
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Duquesne University, 453 Mellon Hall, 600 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15282, USA
| | - Devika S Manickam
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Duquesne University, 453 Mellon Hall, 600 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15282, USA.
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26
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Krhač Levačić A, Berger S, Müller J, Wegner A, Lächelt U, Dohmen C, Rudolph C, Wagner E. Dynamic mRNA polyplexes benefit from bioreducible cleavage sites for in vitro and in vivo transfer. J Control Release 2021; 339:27-40. [PMID: 34547258 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2021.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Currently, messenger RNA (mRNA)-based lipid nanoparticle formulations revolutionize the clinical field. Cationic polymer-based complexes (polyplexes) represent an alternative compound class for mRNA delivery. After establishing branched polyethylenimine with a succinylation degree of 10% (succPEI) as highly effective positive mRNA transfection standard, a diverse library of PEI-like peptides termed sequence-defined oligoaminoamides (OAAs) was screened for mRNA delivery. Notably, sequences, which had previously been identified as potent plasmid DNA (pDNA) or small-interfering RNA (siRNA) carriers, displayed only moderate mRNA transfection activity. A second round of screening combined the cationizable building block succinoyl tetraethylene pentamine and histidines for endosomal buffering, tyrosine tripeptides and various fatty acids for mRNA polyplex stabilization, as well as redox-sensitive units for programmed intracellular release. For the tested OAA carriers, balancing of extracellular stability, endosomal lytic activity, and intracellular release capability was found to be of utmost importance for optimum mRNA transfection efficiency. OAAs with T-shape topology containing two oleic acids as well-stabilizing fatty acids, attached via a dynamic bioreducible building block, displayed superior activity with up to 1000-fold increased transfection efficiency compared to their non-reducible analogs. In the absence of the dynamic linkage, incorporation of shorter less stabilizing fatty acids could only partly compensate for mRNA delivery. Highest GFP expression and the largest fraction of transfected cells (96%) could be detected for the bioreducible OAA with incorporated histidines and a dioleoyl motif, outperforming all other tested carriers as well as the positive control succPEI. The good in vitro performance of the dynamic lead structure was verified in vivo upon intratracheal administration of mRNA complexes in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Krhač Levačić
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) Munich, Butenandtstr. 5-13, D-81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Simone Berger
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) Munich, Butenandtstr. 5-13, D-81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Judith Müller
- Ethris GmbH, Semmelweisstr. 3, Planegg D-82152, Germany
| | - Andrea Wegner
- Ethris GmbH, Semmelweisstr. 3, Planegg D-82152, Germany
| | - Ulrich Lächelt
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) Munich, Butenandtstr. 5-13, D-81377 Munich, Germany
| | | | | | - Ernst Wagner
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) Munich, Butenandtstr. 5-13, D-81377 Munich, Germany.
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Abstract
RNA-based therapeutics have shown great promise in treating a broad spectrum of diseases through various mechanisms including knockdown of pathological genes, expression of therapeutic proteins, and programmed gene editing. Due to the inherent instability and negative-charges of RNA molecules, RNA-based therapeutics can make the most use of delivery systems to overcome biological barriers and to release the RNA payload into the cytosol. Among different types of delivery systems, lipid-based RNA delivery systems, particularly lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), have been extensively studied due to their unique properties, such as simple chemical synthesis of lipid components, scalable manufacturing processes of LNPs, and wide packaging capability. LNPs represent the most widely used delivery systems for RNA-based therapeutics, as evidenced by the clinical approvals of three LNP-RNA formulations, patisiran, BNT162b2, and mRNA-1273. This review covers recent advances of lipids, lipid derivatives, and lipid-derived macromolecules used in RNA delivery over the past several decades. We focus mainly on their chemical structures, synthetic routes, characterization, formulation methods, and structure-activity relationships. We also briefly describe the current status of representative preclinical studies and clinical trials and highlight future opportunities and challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuebao Zhang
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Changzhen Sun
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Chang Wang
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Katarina E Jankovic
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Yizhou Dong
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Center for Clinical and Translational Science, The Comprehensive Cancer Center, Dorothy M. Davis Heart & Lung Research Institute, Department of Radiation Oncology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
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28
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Rinoldi C, Zargarian SS, Nakielski P, Li X, Liguori A, Petronella F, Presutti D, Wang Q, Costantini M, De Sio L, Gualandi C, Ding B, Pierini F. Nanotechnology-Assisted RNA Delivery: From Nucleic Acid Therapeutics to COVID-19 Vaccines. SMALL METHODS 2021; 5:e2100402. [PMID: 34514087 PMCID: PMC8420172 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202100402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, the main quest of science has been the pioneering of the groundbreaking biomedical strategies needed for achieving a personalized medicine. Ribonucleic acids (RNAs) are outstanding bioactive macromolecules identified as pivotal actors in regulating a wide range of biochemical pathways. The ability to intimately control the cell fate and tissue activities makes RNA-based drugs the most fascinating family of bioactive agents. However, achieving a widespread application of RNA therapeutics in humans is still a challenging feat, due to both the instability of naked RNA and the presence of biological barriers aimed at hindering the entrance of RNA into cells. Recently, material scientists' enormous efforts have led to the development of various classes of nanostructured carriers customized to overcome these limitations. This work systematically reviews the current advances in developing the next generation of drugs based on nanotechnology-assisted RNA delivery. The features of the most used RNA molecules are presented, together with the development strategies and properties of nanostructured vehicles. Also provided is an in-depth overview of various therapeutic applications of the presented systems, including coronavirus disease vaccines and the newest trends in the field. Lastly, emerging challenges and future perspectives for nanotechnology-mediated RNA therapies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Rinoldi
- Department of Biosystems and Soft MatterInstitute of Fundamental Technological ResearchPolish Academy of Sciencesul. Pawińskiego 5BWarsaw02‐106Poland
| | - Seyed Shahrooz Zargarian
- Department of Biosystems and Soft MatterInstitute of Fundamental Technological ResearchPolish Academy of Sciencesul. Pawińskiego 5BWarsaw02‐106Poland
| | - Pawel Nakielski
- Department of Biosystems and Soft MatterInstitute of Fundamental Technological ResearchPolish Academy of Sciencesul. Pawińskiego 5BWarsaw02‐106Poland
| | - Xiaoran Li
- Innovation Center for Textile Science and TechnologyDonghua UniversityWest Yan'an Road 1882Shanghai200051China
| | - Anna Liguori
- Department of Chemistry “Giacomo Ciamician” and INSTM UdR of BolognaUniversity of BolognaVia Selmi 2Bologna40126Italy
| | - Francesca Petronella
- Institute of Crystallography CNR‐ICNational Research Council of ItalyVia Salaria Km 29.300Monterotondo – Rome00015Italy
| | - Dario Presutti
- Institute of Physical ChemistryPolish Academy of Sciencesul. M. Kasprzaka 44/52Warsaw01‐224Poland
| | - Qiusheng Wang
- Innovation Center for Textile Science and TechnologyDonghua UniversityWest Yan'an Road 1882Shanghai200051China
| | - Marco Costantini
- Institute of Physical ChemistryPolish Academy of Sciencesul. M. Kasprzaka 44/52Warsaw01‐224Poland
| | - Luciano De Sio
- Department of Medico‐Surgical Sciences and BiotechnologiesResearch Center for BiophotonicsSapienza University of RomeCorso della Repubblica 79Latina04100Italy
- CNR‐Lab. LicrylInstitute NANOTECArcavacata di Rende87036Italy
| | - Chiara Gualandi
- Department of Chemistry “Giacomo Ciamician” and INSTM UdR of BolognaUniversity of BolognaVia Selmi 2Bologna40126Italy
- Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Research on Advanced Applications in Mechanical Engineering and Materials TechnologyCIRI‐MAMUniversity of BolognaViale Risorgimento 2Bologna40136Italy
| | - Bin Ding
- Innovation Center for Textile Science and TechnologyDonghua UniversityWest Yan'an Road 1882Shanghai200051China
| | - Filippo Pierini
- Department of Biosystems and Soft MatterInstitute of Fundamental Technological ResearchPolish Academy of Sciencesul. Pawińskiego 5BWarsaw02‐106Poland
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Hou X, Zaks T, Langer R, Dong Y. Lipid nanoparticles for mRNA delivery. NATURE REVIEWS. MATERIALS 2021; 6:1078-1094. [PMID: 34394960 PMCID: PMC8353930 DOI: 10.1038/s41578-021-00358-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1163] [Impact Index Per Article: 387.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) has emerged as a new category of therapeutic agent to prevent and treat various diseases. To function in vivo, mRNA requires safe, effective and stable delivery systems that protect the nucleic acid from degradation and that allow cellular uptake and mRNA release. Lipid nanoparticles have successfully entered the clinic for the delivery of mRNA; in particular, lipid nanoparticle-mRNA vaccines are now in clinical use against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which marks a milestone for mRNA therapeutics. In this Review, we discuss the design of lipid nanoparticles for mRNA delivery and examine physiological barriers and possible administration routes for lipid nanoparticle-mRNA systems. We then consider key points for the clinical translation of lipid nanoparticle-mRNA formulations, including good manufacturing practice, stability, storage and safety, and highlight preclinical and clinical studies of lipid nanoparticle-mRNA therapeutics for infectious diseases, cancer and genetic disorders. Finally, we give an outlook to future possibilities and remaining challenges for this promising technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xucheng Hou
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH USA
| | - Tal Zaks
- Moderna, Inc., Cambridge, MA USA
| | - Robert Langer
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA USA
| | - Yizhou Dong
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH USA
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Kim J, Eygeris Y, Gupta M, Sahay G. Self-assembled mRNA vaccines. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 170:83-112. [PMID: 33400957 PMCID: PMC7837307 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2020.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 240] [Impact Index Per Article: 80.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
mRNA vaccines have evolved from being a mere curiosity to emerging as COVID-19 vaccine front-runners. Recent advancements in the field of RNA technology, vaccinology, and nanotechnology have generated interest in delivering safe and effective mRNA therapeutics. In this review, we discuss design and self-assembly of mRNA vaccines. Self-assembly, a spontaneous organization of individual molecules, allows for design of nanoparticles with customizable properties. We highlight the materials commonly utilized to deliver mRNA, their physicochemical characteristics, and other relevant considerations, such as mRNA optimization, routes of administration, cellular fate, and immune activation, that are important for successful mRNA vaccination. We also examine the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines currently in clinical trials. mRNA vaccines are ready for the clinic, showing tremendous promise in the COVID-19 vaccine race, and have pushed the boundaries of gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeonghwan Kim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Robertson Life Science Building, 2730 South Moody Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97201, USA
| | - Yulia Eygeris
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Robertson Life Science Building, 2730 South Moody Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97201, USA
| | - Mohit Gupta
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Robertson Life Science Building, 2730 South Moody Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97201, USA
| | - Gaurav Sahay
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Robertson Life Science Building, 2730 South Moody Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97201, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health & Science University, Robertson Life Science Building, 2730 South Moody Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97201, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239, USA.
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31
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Blakney AK, Ip S, Geall AJ. An Update on Self-Amplifying mRNA Vaccine Development. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:97. [PMID: 33525396 PMCID: PMC7911542 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9020097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This review will explore the four major pillars required for design and development of an saRNA vaccine: Antigen design, vector design, non-viral delivery systems, and manufacturing (both saRNA and lipid nanoparticles (LNP)). We report on the major innovations, preclinical and clinical data reported in the last five years and will discuss future prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna K. Blakney
- Michael Smith Laboratories, School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Shell Ip
- Precision NanoSystems Inc., Vancouver, BC V6P 6T7, Canada; (S.I.); (A.J.G.)
| | - Andrew J. Geall
- Precision NanoSystems Inc., Vancouver, BC V6P 6T7, Canada; (S.I.); (A.J.G.)
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32
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Buschmann MD, Carrasco MJ, Alishetty S, Paige M, Alameh MG, Weissman D. Nanomaterial Delivery Systems for mRNA Vaccines. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:65. [PMID: 33478109 PMCID: PMC7836001 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9010065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 251] [Impact Index Per Article: 83.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The recent success of mRNA vaccines in SARS-CoV-2 clinical trials is in part due to the development of lipid nanoparticle delivery systems that not only efficiently express the mRNA-encoded immunogen after intramuscular injection, but also play roles as adjuvants and in vaccine reactogenicity. We present an overview of mRNA delivery systems and then focus on the lipid nanoparticles used in the current SARS-CoV-2 vaccine clinical trials. The review concludes with an analysis of the determinants of the performance of lipid nanoparticles in mRNA vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D. Buschmann
- Department of Bioengineering, George Mason University, 4400 University Drive, MS 1J7, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA; (M.J.C.); (S.A.)
| | - Manuel J. Carrasco
- Department of Bioengineering, George Mason University, 4400 University Drive, MS 1J7, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA; (M.J.C.); (S.A.)
| | - Suman Alishetty
- Department of Bioengineering, George Mason University, 4400 University Drive, MS 1J7, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA; (M.J.C.); (S.A.)
| | - Mikell Paige
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, George Mason University, 4400 University Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA;
| | - Mohamad Gabriel Alameh
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 130 Stemmler Hall, 3450 Hamilton Walk, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA;
| | - Drew Weissman
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 410B Hill Pavilion, 380 S. University Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA;
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Zhang H, Leal J, Soto MR, Smyth HDC, Ghosh D. Aerosolizable Lipid Nanoparticles for Pulmonary Delivery of mRNA through Design of Experiments. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:E1042. [PMID: 33143328 PMCID: PMC7692784 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12111042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Messenger RNA is a class of promising nucleic acid therapeutics to treat a variety of diseases, including genetic diseases. The development of a stable and efficacious mRNA pulmonary delivery system would enable high therapeutic concentrations locally in the lungs to improve efficacy and limit potential toxicities. In this study, we employed a Design of Experiments (DOE) strategy to screen a library of lipid nanoparticle compositions to identify formulations possessing high potency both before and after aerosolization. Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) showed stable physicochemical properties for at least 14 days of storage at 4 °C, and most formulations exhibited high encapsulation efficiencies greater than 80%. Generally, upon nebulization, LNP formulations showed increased particle size and decreased encapsulation efficiencies. An increasing molar ratio of poly-(ethylene) glycol (PEG)-lipid significantly decreased size but also intracellular protein expression of mRNA. We identified four formulations possessing higher intracellular protein expression ability in vitro even after aerosolization which were then assessed in in vivo studies. It was found that luciferase protein was predominately expressed in the mouse lung for the four lead formulations before and after nebulization. This study demonstrated that LNPs hold promise to be applied for aerosolization-mediated pulmonary mRNA delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Debadyuti Ghosh
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA; (H.Z.); (J.L.); (M.R.S.); (H.D.C.S.)
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34
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Kim J, Mukherjee A, Nelson D, Jozic A, Sahay G. Rapid generation of circulating and mucosal decoy ACE2 using mRNA nanotherapeutics for the potential treatment of SARS-CoV-2. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2020. [PMID: 32743574 DOI: 10.1101/2020.07.24.205583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) enters through the airways and infects the lungs, causing lethal pulmonary damage in vulnerable patients. This virus contains spike proteins on its envelope that binds to human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (hACE2) expressed on the surface of airway cells, enabling entry of the virus for causing infection 1,2 . In severe cases, the virus enters the circulatory system, contributing to multiorgan failure. Soluble form of hACE2 binds to SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and prevents viral entry into target cells 3 . Moreover, soluble recombinant ACE2 ameliorates lung injury 4 but its short half-life limits its therapeutic utility 5 . Here, we engineered synthetic mRNA to encode a soluble form of hACE2 (hsACE2) to prevent viral infection. Novel lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) were used to package mRNA and transfect mammalian cells for enhanced production of secreted proteins. Intravenously administered LNP led to hepatic delivery of the mRNA. This elicited secretion of hsACE2 into the blood circulation within 2 h, and levels of circulating hsACE2 peaked at 6 h and gradually decreased over several days. Since the primary site of entry and pathogenesis for SARS-CoV-2 is the lungs, we instilled LNPs into the lungs and were able to detect hsACE2 in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid within 24 h and lasted for 48 h. Through co-immunoprecipitation, we found that mRNA-generated hsACE2 was able to bind with the receptor binding domain of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. Furthermore, hsACE2 was able to strongly inhibit (over 90%) SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus infection. Our proof of principle study shows that mRNA-based nanotherapeutics can be potentially deployed for pulmonary and extrapulmonary neutralization of SARS-CoV-2 and open new treatment opportunities for COVID-19.
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