Lipid Nanoparticle Technology a Key Component of COVID-19 mRNA Vaccines

Lipid Nanoparticle Technology a Key Component of COVID-19 mRNA Vaccines

Keywords: COVID-19;, mRNA;, Lipid nanoparticles;, BNT162b;, mRNA-127;, Vaccine;

Abstract

Background: The emergency use authorization (EUA) by the US-FDA for two mRNA-based vaccines BNT162b2 (Pfizer-BioNTech) and mRNA-1273 (Moderna) has increased the confidence of addressing the COVID-19 pandemic which has killed millions of people worldwide. The aim was to review literature on lipid nanoparticle technology as a key component of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines. Methods: An introductory literature search was conducted by using keywords including “COVID-19”, mRNA vaccines” nanotechnology” and others in the databases; Google Scholar and PubMed. Results: Using coronavirus disease-2019 vaccine related articles it was evident that lipid nanotechnology has played a significant role in the success of mRNA vaccines. Nanoparticles (NPs) as delivery vehicles render stability to the encased mRNA from ribonucleases, facilitating delivery of high mRNA concentrations into the target cells. The ionisable "lipid nanoparticle" (LNP) facilitates Ribosomal nucleic acid (RNA) complexation and has the capacity to avoid reticuloendothelial clearance and subsequent endocytosis. These unique properties of the lipid nanocarrier technology can be attributed to the overwhelming success of the two-mRNA based COVID-19 vaccines with ~95% efficacy in phase III clinical trials. When compared against the traditional liposomal bilayer carriers, LNPs possess rigid morphology, better stability profile and improved cellular penetration of the cargo. Conclusion: The efficacy and rate at which BNT162b2 (Pfizer-BioNTech) and mRNA-1273 (Moderna) mRNA vaccines were formulated has showcased the potential of nanotechnology in aiding the alleviation of the COVID-19 health crisis and has further demonstrated the undeniable impact of nano-medicine in tackling future health challenges reducing morbidity and mortality worldwide.
Published
2022-03-13