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 |