Decoding the construction of nano ‘gene ferries’ to advance RNA medication

LMU researchers have investigated how cationic polymers manage on a molecular degree when transporting RNA medication.

Cationic polymers are promising instruments for transporting RNA therapeutics or RNA vaccines. Like lipid nanocarriers, they’re used to ship mRNA medicines. The nanoscopic packaging supplies are in a position to successfully defend their load and ship them to the goal cells.

“We manufacture so-called ‘gene ferries,’ into which every kind of therapeutic nucleic acids may be encapsulated for safe transport to the positioning of motion,” explains Professor Olivia Merkel, Chair of Drug Supply at LMU’s College of Chemistry and Pharmacy.

To additional enhance the effectiveness of those gene ferries, nonetheless, you will need to perceive how these particles manage on a molecular degree, encapsulate RNA, and launch it once more—a facet which to this point has not been totally examined. Merkel is principal investigator of a brand new research that has yielded recent insights into the group of the nanocarriers.

The research was carried out as a part of her ERC analysis undertaking RatInhalRNA (Rational and Simulation-Supported Design of Inhalable RNA Nanocarriers) and the findings had been not too long ago revealed within the journal Nano Letters.

“Our analysis used a method referred to as coarse-grained molecular dynamics (CG-MD) to simulate and visualize the particles,” explains Merkel. The particular focus was on how modifications in polymer construction and environmental circumstances impression particle formation. Simulations had been supported by moist lab experiments utilizing nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), which confirmed that CG-MD can reveal detailed insights into the construction and habits of RNA nanoparticles.

“This research highlights CG-MD’s worth in predicting and explaining the properties of RNA nano-formulations, which may also help in designing higher programs for future medical purposes.”