Significant advances in nucleic acid therapeutics, including the use of mRNA vaccines for COVID-19, have spurred new interest in the use of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) especially for extrahepatic delivery. In this presentation, I will cover our work on utilizing endogenous mechanisms for targeted delivery of nucleic acid therapeutics. Specifically, I will cover on the role of protein corona formed on LNPs, myeloid cell uptake of LNPs and selective tropism towards disease sites, and secretion of extracellular vesicles and their ability to amplify transfection through a bystander effect.

Learning Objectives:

• Specific approaches for targeted nucleic acid delivery using lipid nanoparticles (LPNs) and specific emphasis on endogenous mechanisms.
• The role of tailored protein corona composition on LNPs and potential for extrahepatic delivery.
• Using myeloid cells as Trojan Horse in LNP-mediated transfection and therapeutic benefits for treatment of inflammation and cancer.

Mansoor Amiji, Ph.D.

Dr. Mansoor Amiji is currently the University Distinguished Professor, Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Professor of Chemical Engineering at Northeastern University in Boston, MA. Dr. Amiji received his BS degree in pharmacy from Northeastern University in 1988 and a PhD in pharmaceutical sciences from Purdue University in 1992.

Dr. Amiji’s teaches both undergraduate and graduate students at Northeastern University. His research is focused on development of biocompatible materials from natural and synthetic polymers, target-specific drug and gene delivery systems for cancer and infectious diseases, and nanotechnology applications for medical diagnosis, imaging, and therapy.

Dr. Amiji has edited twelve books and has published over 60 books chapters and over 400 peer-reviewed articles. He is a Highly Cited Researcher (top 1%) in Pharmacology and Toxicology and has a Google H index of 105. Dr. Amiji has received a number of honors and awards including the Nano Science and Technology Institute’s Award for Outstanding Contributions towards the Advancement of Nanotechnology, Microtechnology, and Biotechnology, American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS) Meritorious Manuscript Award, Controlled Release Society’s (CRS) Nagai Award, and he is a Elected Fellow of both the AAPS and CRS.