Developing Thermally Stable Lipid Nanoparticles (LNPs) with Long-Term Stability for mRNA Therapeutics

The success of the COVID-19 vaccines demonstrated how powerful new technologies based on lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) and messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) can be for protecting public health. As more RNA-based medicines are being developed, it is increasingly important that these LNPs are stable and easy to distribute, especially to support global accessibility and improve preparedness for future health crises. Currently, most LNP formulations must be stored at –20 °C or even –80 °C to remain effective, which makes manufacturing and distribution costly and limits access in regions without reliable cold-chain infrastructure. This project will explore novel synthetic lipids and stabilizing materials (e.g. polymers) to develop LNP formulations that stay functional for longer and under less demanding storage conditions. The research will be carried out through a collaboration between two leading centers of LNP innovation: the University of British Columbia and the Eindhoven University of Technology. Together, these institutions aim to advance next-generation LNP technologies and strengthen international scientific cooperation.

Faculty Supervisor:

Anna Blakney

Student:

Partner:

Eindhoven University of Technology

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Education

University:

The University of British Columbia

Program:

Globalink Research Award

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