Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have recently emerged as one of the most advanced technologies for the highly efficient in vivo delivery of exogenous mRNA, particularly for COVID-19 vaccine delivery. LNPs comprise four different lipids: ionizable lipids, helper or neutral lipids, cholesterol, and lipids attached to polyethylene glycol (PEG). In this review, we present recent the advances and insights for the design of LNPs, as well as their composition and properties, with a subsequent discussion on the development of COVID-19 vaccines. In particular, as ionizable lipids are the most critical drivers for complexing the mRNA and in vivo delivery, the role of ionizable lipids in mRNA vaccines is discussed in detail. Furthermore, the use of LNPs as effective delivery vehicles for vaccination, genome editing, and protein replacement therapy is explained. Finally, expert opinion on LNPs for mRNA vaccines is discussed, which may address future challenges in developing mRNA vaccines using highly efficient LNPs based on a novel set of ionizable lipids. Developing highly efficient mRNA delivery systems for vaccines with improved safety against some severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants remains difficult.

This data article contains the data related to the research article "Characterization, biorecognitive activity and stability of WGA grafted lipid nanostructures for the controlled delivery of rifampicin" (Pooja et al. 2015) [1]. In the present study, SLN were prepared by a single emulsification-solvent evaporation method and the various steps of SLN preparation are shown in a flow chart. The preparation of SLN was optimized for various formulation variables including type and quantity of lipid, surfactant, amount of co-surfactant and volume of organic phase. Similarly, effect of variables related to homogezation, sonication and stirring processes, on the size and surface potential of SLN was determined and optimized.

Tf-conjugated solid lipid nanoparticles were designed for selectively targeting etoposide to human non-small cell lung cancer resulting in sustained drug release, improved plasma concentrations and accumulation of etoposide in targeted lung tissues.