Advancements in nanotechnology-enabled mRNA delivery systems
mRNA technology has made significant achievements in biomedical science,spanning many fields such as tumor treatment,preventive vaccines for infectious diseases,and the management of metabolic disorders.Compared to traditional vaccines(such as inactivated,attenuated,subunit,or DNA vaccines),mRNA vaccines offer significant advantages,including rapid action,enhanced safety,diverse target selection,rapid in vivo protein production,extended protein expression,enhanced preservation of protein functionality,the capability for expression within cells and convenient clinical translation.Despite the promising avenues that mRNA technology opens,its clinical viability is hindered by challenges such as rapid degradation and limited localization when administered in a naked form,owing to the mRNA inherently large and polyanionic nature.Additionally,RNases present in the bloodstream and tissues rapidly degrade mRNA,and its administration induces the innate immune response.Nanotechnology presents innovative solutions,overcoming physiological barriers and significantly enhancing the efficacy of mRNA vaccines.This review explores modular approaches for the applications of biomaterials and nanotechnology in mRNA vaccine development.Various nano-delivery systems,including lipid nanoparticles,polymer nanoparticles,lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles,virus-like nanoparticles,protein nanoparticles,and inorganic nanoparticles,are extensively discussed.This review focuses on the design principles,meticulous formulation evaluation,and actual effects of nanotechnology-based mRNA delivery systems in therapeutic applications.The composition,physical and chemical properties,as well as the administration routes of these systems can significantly influence organ distribution,protein expression kinetics,and protective efficacy.Smart nanotechnology delivery systems have been engineered to enable site-specific delivery with reduced side effects.However,these systems have limitations,such as intracellular and extracellular barriers,immunogenicity,storage,and safety during their functional development.To overcome these challenges and expedite the clinical application of additional mRNA vaccines,further optimization and innovation are required.Therefore,it is important to explore potential solutions.This discussion explores the potential of nanotechnology in enhancing mRNA vaccines for prevention and treatment.Previous and current research has demonstrated the significant potential of nanotechnology-based mRNA vaccines for clinical use.In the next decade,it will be crucial to gain a deeper understanding of the biological mechanisms of mRNA vaccines and to advance delivery methods,which will provide ample opportunities for improvement.The field of mRNA vaccines is rapidly expanding and evolving,with the emergence of numerous databases and collaborative platforms.The integration of high-throughput screening and machine learning techniques is poised to expedite the design of tailored mRNA therapies at a reduced cost.This approach may enhance effectiveness and overall accessibility.Resources and symposia dedicated to mRNA vaccines disseminate current research on nanotechnology-based mRNA vaccines,allowing non-professionals to stay informed and engage in discussions with acclaimed researchers.Ongoing collaboration between academia and industry is expected to yield efficient mRNA vaccines for clinical use.