The structure of CL4F 8-6, the branched ionizable lipid that was most effective in increasing storage stability and LNP-RNA delivery (Image: Yusuke Sato).

A new framework bridges a gap in understanding RNA therapeutics by linking the structure of lipid nanoparticles ... Amine ...

To enhance mRNA distribution, Penn engineers have created an ideal “recipe” for ionizable lipids, essential lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) components, the molecules that underlie COVID-19 vaccines ...

One major challenge in making these improved lipids was the difficulty of creating branched ionizable lipids—key components of LNPs that change their charge to help them escape the endosome.

However, LNPs consisting of helper lipids, PEGylated lipids and ionizable lipids can be susceptible to N-oxide-based impurities that can cause the loss of function of the genetic payload. To ensure ...