Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are spherical particles with
an outer shell made of biocompatible polymers encapsulating drugs in nanoscale.
The physiochemical diversity and biocompatibility of lipids enhance oral
bioavailability of drugs and positively influence drug absorption. Other than drug
delivery are more applications for LNPs, like vaccines by encapsulating
antigens adjuvants, as well as gene therapy for DNA or RNA delivery. Compared
to conventional pharmaceutical manufacturing this technology is less solvent
intensive and generates a way smaller waste-to-product ratio. This in
conjunction with lower energy requirements make pharmaceuticals with LNPs make
them a green & sustainable chemistry approach.
Droplet generation in microfluidics is based on the use
of two immiscible phases that are referred to as the continuous phase (oil +
surfactants, medium in which droplets flow) and dispersed phase (water, the
droplet). For generating droplets, microfluidic systems generally include a
microfluidic chip, a fluid handling system and tubing. This system is usually
connected to a computer and a microscope to visualize droplet formation.
The objective of this case study is to demonstrate
contamination-free droplet generation using the mp6 micropump with pressure
sensors, fluidic accessories, reagents like the surfactants provided by Emulseo
and a Droplet Generator Chip obtained from our partner microfluidic ChipShop.
You can read the full Case Study here: Contaminatio-free encapsulation of Lipid Nano Particles