November 16, 2014
The discovery of RNA interference (RNAi) in mammalian cells has created a new class of therapeutics based on the reversible silencing of specific disease-causing genes. This therapeutic potential depends on the ability to deliver inducers of RNAi, such as short-interfering RNA (siRNA) and micro-RNA (miRNA), to cells of target tissues. This chapter reviews various challenges and delivery strategies for siRNA, with particular focus on the development of lipid nanoparticles (LNP) delivery technologies. Currently, LNP delivery systems are the most advanced technology for systemic delivery of siRNA, with numerous formulations under various stages of clinical trials. We also discuss methods to improve gene silencing potency of LNP-siRNA, as well as application of LNP technologies beyond siRNA to the encapsulation of other nucleic acids such as mRNA and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR).
Publication - Summary
Feb 07, 2019
Nano Research
Publication - Summary
Apr 27, 2017
Molecular Therapy
The swine influenza pandemic of 2009 and more recent zoonotic transmissions of several avian influenza subtypes to human populations punctuates the threat posed by new pathogens for which we have no pre-existing immunity. Traditional vaccines requi...