Development of microfluidic devices for the precise size tuning of lipid nanoparticles

Development of size-controlled lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-based drug delivery system is expected to improve the biodistribution and delivery efficiency of drugs, DNAs, and RNAs. In particular, the size-controlled LNPs, such as 10 nm size tuned LNPs, could provide size-selective targeting to various cells and organs.

We have been developed microfluidic devices named invasive lipid nanoparticle production device or iLiNP device for short, for the precise LNP size control. LNPs are produced by rapid mixing of the lipid/alcohol solution and DNA or RNA/buffer solution using the microfluidic device. The iLiNP device allows POPC (1-Palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine) LNP size control at 10 nm intervals by changing the flow conditions. In addition, the iLiNP device enable the production of size-controlled siRNA or mRNA encapsulated LNPs and polymeric micelles.

In this project, we will work on the following themes:

1. Development of the LNPs mass production system based on the iLiNP device
2. Integration of the LNP production processes including the core nanoparticle production, encapsulation of core nanoparticles, drugs, DNAs, or RNAs into LNPs, and dialysis or dilution of alcohol after production of LNPs
3. Development of glass-based iLiNP devices for lipophilic materials

 

LNPs preparation method using the iLiNP device
（Reproduced with permission from the American Chemical Society）