ABSTRACT
Messenger RNA (mRNA) is the template for protein biosynthesis and is emerging as an essential active molecule to combat various diseases, including viral infection and cancer. Especially, mRNA-based vaccines, as a new type of vaccine, have played a leading role in fighting against the current global pandemic of COVID-19. However, the inherent drawbacks, including large size, negative charge, and instability, hinder its use as a therapeutic agent. Lipid carriers are distinguishable and promising vehicles for mRNA delivery, owning the capacity to encapsulate and deliver negatively charged drugs to the targeted tissues and release cargoes at the desired time. Here, we first summarized the structure and properties of different lipid carriers, such as liposomes, liposome-like nanoparticles, solid lipid nanoparticles, lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, exosomes and lipoprotein particles, and their applications in delivering mRNA. Then, the development of lipid-based formulations as vaccine delivery systems was discussed and highlighted. Recent advancements in the mRNA vaccine of COVID-19 were emphasized. Finally, we described our future vision and perspectives in this field.
ABSTRACT
mRNA vaccines are a new class of nucleic acid vaccines. Compared with DNA vaccines, mRNA vaccines do not need to enter the nucleus, and there is no risk of integration into the genome, which makes them relatively safer. However, the poor stability of mRNA vaccines and the facile degradation by nuclease in vitro and in vivo are the bottlenecks restricting its development. Therefore, mRNA vaccines need to have a suitable delivery vehicle to deliver them to the body in order to have a better immune effect. Currently, mRNA delivery vectors include viral vectors and non-viral vectors. In this paper, a brief overview of non-viral vector liposome is presented, mainly focusing on the mRNA vaccines, liposome, endosomal escape and enhancing liposome delivery, and the research prospects of mRNA and liposome delivery vectors are also commented.