Magnetic nanoparticles fabricated/integrated with microfluidics for biological applications: A review.

Nanostructured materials have gained significant attention in recent years for their potential in biological applications, such as cell and biomolecular sorting, as well as early detection of metastatic cancer. Among these materials, magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) stand out for their easy functionalization, high specific surface area, chemical stability, and superparamagnetic properties. However, conventional fabrication methods can lead to inconsistencies in MNPs' characteristics and performance, highlighting the need for a cost-effective, controllable, and reproducible synthesis approach. In this review, we will discuss the utilization of microfluidic technology as a cutting-edge strategy for the continuous and regulated synthesis of MNPs. This approach has proven effective in producing MNPs with a superior biomedical performance by offering precise control over particle size, shape, and surface properties. We will examine the latest research findings on developing and integrating MNPs synthesized through continuous microfluidic processes for a wide range of biological applications. By providing an overview of the current state of the field, this review aims to showcase the advantages of microfluidics in the fabrication and integration of MNPs, emphasizing their potential to revolutionize diagnostic and therapeutic methods within the realm of biotechnology.

Recent approaches to mRNA vaccine delivery by lipid-based vectors prepared by continuous-flow microfluidic devices.

Advancements in nanotechnology have resulted in the introduction of several nonviral delivery vectors for the nontoxic, efficient delivery of encapsulated mRNA-based vaccines. Lipid- and polymer-based nanoparticles (NP) have proven to be the most potent delivery systems, providing increased delivery efficiency and protection of mRNA molecules from degradation. Here, the authors provide an overview of the recent studies carried out using lipid NPs and their functionalized forms, polymeric and lipid-polymer hybrid nanocarriers utilized mainly for the encapsulation of mRNAs for gene and immune therapeutic applications. A microfluidic system as a prevalent methodology for the preparation of NPs with continuous flow enables NP size tuning, rapid mixing and production reproducibility. Continuous-flow microfluidic devices for lipid and polymeric encapsulated RNA NP production are specifically reviewed.