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. 2023 May 26;8(3):392–400. doi: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2023.05.008

Table 2.

The components of a lipid-based siRNA delivery system.

Component Description
Lipid Nanoparticles (LNPs) Nanoscale particles composed of lipids that encapsulate and protect siRNA molecules during delivery
siRNA Short interfering RNA molecules that target specific genes or transcripts for downregulation or silencing
Cationic Lipids Lipids with positively charged head groups that interact with negatively charged siRNA for complex formation
Helper Lipids Lipids that provide stability and structural integrity to the lipid nanoparticles
Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) A hydrophilic polymer added to the surface of LNPs to improve circulation time and reduce immune response
Targeting Ligands Molecules (e.g., antibodies, peptides) attached to LNPs to enhance their specificity for target cells
Endosomal Escape Enhancers Compounds that promote the release of siRNA from endosomes into the cytoplasm, improving its efficacy
Surface Modifications Chemical modifications on the LNP surface to enhance stability, reduce aggregation, or improve targeting
Formulation Methods Techniques used to prepare lipid-based siRNA nanoparticles, such as thin-film hydration or microfluidics
In vivo Delivery Strategies Approaches for administering LNPs to target tissues or organs, including intravenous, intratumoral, etc.
Biological Barriers Cellular and physiological barriers that LNPs encounter during systemic delivery, e.g., the liver or kidneys
Therapeutic Applications Disease areas where lipid-based siRNA delivery systems have shown potential for therapeutic interventions