Polymer-LNP for enhanced delivery of nucleic acids

Tiny particles made of fat are an established system for delivering nucleic acids into cells to perform gene therapy. We have developed a new polymer that can be incorporated into fat particles to improve the nucleic acid delivery efficiency. Using this polymer and others with a similar structure, we will engineer a library of fat particles made with different combinations of fats and polymers. We will study how compatible each polymer is with fats, their mechanism for increasing nucleic acid delivery, and their performance (efficacy and side effects) in small animals. Results from this research will help us develop a better delivery system for nucleic acids for improved gene therapy for many diseases.

Faculty Supervisor:

Shyh-Dar Li

Student:

Partner:

NanoStar Pharmaceuticals

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

The University of British Columbia

Program: