Lipid Nanoparticle (LNP)

Lipid Nanoparticle (LNP) refers to nanoscale lipid-based delivery systems designed to encapsulate and protect nucleic acid therapeutics such as mRNA, siRNA, or gene editing components, enabling efficient delivery into target cells. LNPs typically contain ionisable lipids, helper lipids, cholesterol, and polyethylene glycol lipids that collectively support stability, cellular uptake, endosomal escape, and controlled biodistribution. This platform gained major prominence through mRNA vaccine development and has since expanded into multiple therapeutic areas.

The biopharmaceutical industry uses LNPs as a leading non-viral delivery technology due to scalability, manufacturability, and adaptable formulation design. Manufacturing processes require precise control of particle size, encapsulation efficiency, surface charge, and stability, with microfluidic mixing often used to ensure reproducibility. Regulatory evaluation focuses on critical quality attributes, impurities, and consistent performance across batches. Safety considerations include immunostimulation, infusion reactions, and tissue distribution profiles. As gene therapies, RNA therapeutics, and personalised vaccines expand, LNP technology continues advancing through improved targeting, reduced toxicity, and enhanced endosomal escape, positioning it as a cornerstone delivery platform enabling next-generation genetic medicines.