Breakthrough in Nanoparticle Research for Vaccination

Strategic Insights -

Scientists at King's College London have made significant discoveries in the field of nanoparticle research for vaccination, particularly in the delivery of lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-mRNAs to the lungs. The study highlights the importance of mucosal immunity in preventing infections, as opposed to relying solely on systemic immunity triggered by intramuscular injections. The researchers utilized a vibrating mesh nebulizer to aerosolize LNP-mRNAs for pulmonary delivery, demonstrating a significant increase in deposition and delivery to the alveolar regions compared to pre-aerosolized vectors.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study emphasizes the significance of mucosal immunity in preventing infections, as it can prevent the establishment of an infection rather than just reducing its severity.
  • The vibrating mesh nebulizer was effectively used to atomize inhalation solutions/suspensions for pulmonary delivery, and it demonstrated a significant increase in deposition and delivery to the alveolar regions.
  • The research revealed that the fluidity and shear-induced fusion of LNPs are the primary reasons for unfavorable changes in their physicochemical properties, particularly size enlargement.
  • The study concluded that effective development of inhaled LNP-mRNAs will rely on shear-less devices, formulation optimizations, and inhalable dry powders, and their potential combinations.
  • Hao-Ying Li, Luke Granger, Bahijja Tolulope Raimi-Abraham, Robin Shattock, Charalampos Makatsoris, and Ben Forbes are the researchers involved in this study.
  • The study highlights the potential of nanoparticle research for vaccination and its implications for public health.

Statistics:

  • 54 % w/w of post-aerosolised vectors were deposited in the lower respiratory tract, compared to 28.5 % w/w for pre-aerosolised vectors.
  • The fluidity and shear-induced fusion of LNPs resulted in unexpected changes, particularly size enlargement.
  • The study recommended the use of shear-less devices, formulation optimizations, and inhalable dry powders for effective development of inhaled LNP-mRNAs.

Sources:

  • Pulmonary delivery of LNP-mRNAs aerosolised by vibrating mesh nebulizer: An emphasis on variations and in-depth analyses of physicochemical properties. International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2025:125796.
  • NewsRx. King's College London Reports Findings in Nanoparticles (Pulmonary delivery of LNP-mRNAs aerosolised by vibrating mesh nebulizer: An emphasis on variations and in-depth analyses of physicochemical properties). Nanotechnology Weekly. June 9, 2025; p 670.