Production of siRNA-Loaded Lipid Nanoparticles using a Microfluidic Device

J Vis Exp. 2022 Mar 22:(181). doi: 10.3791/62999.

Abstract

The development of functional lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) is one of the major challenges in the field of drug delivery systems (DDS). Recently, LNP-based RNA delivery systems, namely, RNA-loaded LNPs have attracted attention for RNA therapy. In particular, mRNA-loaded LNP vaccines were approved to prevent COVID-19, thereby leading to the paradigm shift toward the development of next-generation nanomedicines. For the LNP-based nanomedicines, the LNP size is a significant factor in controlling the LNP biodistribution and LNP performance. Therefore, a precise LNP size control technique is indispensable for the LNP production process. Here, we report a protocol for size controlled LNP production using a microfluidic device, named iLiNP. siRNA loaded LNPs are also produced using the iLiNP device and evaluated by in vitro experiment. Representative results are shown for the LNP size, including siRNA-loaded LNPs, Z-potential, siRNA encapsulation efficiency, cytotoxicity, and target gene silencing activity.

Publication types

  • Video-Audio Media
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19*
  • Humans
  • Lab-On-A-Chip Devices
  • Lipids
  • Liposomes
  • Nanoparticles*
  • RNA, Small Interfering / metabolism
  • Tissue Distribution

Substances

  • Lipid Nanoparticles
  • Lipids
  • Liposomes
  • RNA, Small Interfering