Week 7: Lipid Nanoparticle (LNP) Formulation and Characterization

This week we will be going over the following subjects:

LNP Design and Composition:

  • Lipid selection: Ionizable lipids, cholesterol, and PEGylated lipids.
  • Formulation methods: Microfluidic mixing and ethanol injection.
  • Optimization of lipid ratios for effective delivery.

Characterization of LNPs:

  • Size and zeta potential measurement.
  • Encapsulation efficiency and loading capacity.
  • Stability studies under various storage conditions.

GMP Considerations:

  • Scale-up challenges and process validation.
  • Documentation of formulation parameters.
  • Regulatory requirements for LNP-based delivery systems.

Laboratory Work Real-World Application:

  • Case study: LNP formulation for mRNA COVID-19 vaccines.