Development of RNA-loaded lipid nanomedicines for therapeutic and vaccines applications
Recent mRNA vaccine success has heralded a new era of RNA nanomedicines. A few challenges remain to realise the full potential of RNA nanomedicines for therapeutic or therapeutic vaccine applications, including translation efficiency, targeted delivery and stability.
This project aims to develop RNA-loaded lipid nanomedicines using microfluidic devices for potential therapeutic and vaccine applications, focusing on their property control using microfluidic devices, fundamental understanding of structure-function correlations and nanoparticle composition-RNA delivery efficiency correlations. Based on these fundamental studies, next generation of RNA lipid nanoparticles will be developed for therapeutic and vaccine applications. The project is a collaboration with the company BioCina based on Adelaide. They are a CDMO supplying RNA and RNA-LNP active ingredients for clinical trials.
Current projects
Dr. Rui Chen
mRNA manufacturing and formulation service for late-stage clinical trials.
Primary investigator
Dr. Rui Chen (Richard)
Post Doctoral Researcher
Project abstract
This project directly addresses these limitations by focusing on the optimization of mRNA lipid nanoparticle (LNP) manufacturing and formulation for late-stage clinical trials. By enhancing mRNA LNP quality and ensuring nano-formulation stability, it aims to overcome the obstacles that have impeded the global adoption of mRNA-based therapies. Furthermore, the development of ready-to-inject liquid aqueous preparations, designed for storage at 5 +/- 3 degrees Celsius, mitigates the need for costly ultra-low temperature storage and facilitates easier transportation and distribution. Through these innovative approaches, the project seeks to revolutionize the future of mRNA vaccines and therapeutics, making them more accessible and efficient for the global population.
Mr. Jitong Lyu
Quantitative evaluation of cellular delivery of nanoparticles
Primary investigator
Mr. Jitong Lyu
PhD Student
Project abstract
The delivery of nanoparticles to specific cells is a critical aspect of their use in therapeutic applications. However, quantifying the delivery efficiency of nanoparticles to cells remains a major challenge. In this project, we propose a novel approach for the quantitative evaluation of cellular delivery of nanoparticles. By using a combination of fluorescent labelling and flow cytometry, we aim to accurately quantify the percentage of cells that have taken up the nanoparticles. This approach will enable us to systematically evaluate the effects of various nanoparticle properties, such as size, charge, and surface chemistry, on their cellular delivery efficiency. Furthermore, we plan to use this approach to optimize the delivery of RNA-loaded lipid nanoparticles for therapeutic and vaccine applications. Ultimately, this work will facilitate the development of more effective and efficient nanoparticle-based therapies, providing new tools for fighting diseases and improving human health.
Mr. Zhenwei Lan
Development of platform technology for mRNA-LNP adapting to precision medicine
Primary investigator
Mr. Zhenwei Lan
PhD Student
Project abstract
The advanced understanding of diseases underscores the pressing need for precision medicine, where LNP-based mRNA therapy offers considerable promise. Here, I will focus on the development of platform technology for mRNA-LNP adapting to precision medicine, streamlining the transition from diagnostic affirmation to drug availability, and mitigating the influence of factors such as mRNA itself and formula instability on products to a certain extent. Additionally, we will work to devise an integrated functional module to adapt to different source of data input, so that users can easily enter parameters to obtain the target product.
Mr. Vincent Linden
Integrated microfluidic devices for production of personalised mRNA cancer vaccines
Primary investigator
Mr. Vincent Linden
PhD Student
Project abstract
This project aims to design and develop a microfluidic device for synthesising personalised mRNA medicines by integrating lipid nanoparticle (LNP) encapsulation and downstream purification. Current mRNA vaccine production methods are inefficient for small-scale, personalised therapies. By creating an integrated device, the project seeks to streamline production, reduce costs, and enhance the quality of mRNA-LNP formulations. Key objectives include validating individual modules, integrating them with a control system, and ensuring compatibility with industrial manufacturing techniques. This innovation could accelerate the development of personalised mRNA cancer vaccines, making them more feasible and accessible for clinical applications.