مقالات پذیرفته شده در هشتمین کنگره بین المللی زیست پزشکی
Lipid Nanoparticles and mRNA Vaccines: A Revolutionary Approach to Immunization
Lipid Nanoparticles and mRNA Vaccines: A Revolutionary Approach to Immunization
Parnia Shafeizadeh,1,*
1. Farzanegan1 Second Period High School , Ahvaz, Iran
Introduction: The advent of mRNA vaccines, particularly highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic, has marked a significant milestone in the field of immunization. Central to the efficacy of these vaccines are lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), which serve as crucial delivery vehicles for mRNA. Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have revolutionized how we deliver mRNA, particularly showcased by their essential role in developing mRNA vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic. This review explores lipid nanoparticle structure, function, and applications in mRNA therapeutics, highlighting how they work and the benefits they bring compared to traditional vaccine delivery methods.
Methods: This study was conducted as a review by searching for “lipid nanoparticles” and “mRNA vaccines” keywords in databases such as PubMed, Direct Science, Scopus and search engine Google Scholar. finally, more than 30 new articles with a publication date of 2018 were studied and evaluated.
Results: Lipid nanoparticles are tiny, spherical carriers made up of various lipids, including ionizable lipids, phospholipids, cholesterol, and PEGylated lipids. Together, these components encapsulate and protect mRNA, ensuring it remains stable and effective. The process of creating LNPs involves self-assembly, allowing these nanoparticles to transport mRNA directly into target cells. Once injected, typically into muscle tissue, LNPs are taken up by cells through a process called endocytosis, where they release the mRNA into the cell’s cytoplasm. Here, the mRNA is translated into proteins, triggering a strong immune response, preparing the body to recognize and fight off viral infections. The advantages of using lipid nanoparticles in mRNA vaccines are numerous. They enhance stability and protection for mRNA, improve delivery efficiency, and reduce unwanted immune reactions, allowing for a more targeted immune response. LNP technology is versatile, enabling rapid adjustments for different mRNA targets, which is particularly useful for responding to new infectious diseases. Moreover, LNPs can be engineered for various therapeutic applications beyond vaccines, such as in cancer treatment and gene therapy. However, challenges remain. Manufacturing LNPs can be complex, and there are concerns about potential immune reactions and stability issues that need to be addressed to ensure safety and efficacy. Looking ahead, the success of lipid nanoparticles in mRNA vaccines opens the door for their use in personalized medicine and advanced therapies. Researchers are exploring their potential for delivering mRNA in treatments for cancer and genetic disorders, highlighting their transformative potential in modern healthcare.
Conclusion: In summary, lipid nanoparticles represent an exciting advancement in mRNA delivery systems, providing a robust platform for vaccine development and therapeutic applications. Ongoing research and innovation in this area will be crucial for overcoming current challenges and unlocking new possibilities in mRNA-based treatments, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for individuals worldwide.