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Development of Translatable Immunologically Safe PEGylated Lipid Nanoparticles for mRNAVaccine Delivery (2025-2026)

Abstract

The goal of this project is to address emerging concerns regarding the immunosafety of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) used in delivering mRNA vaccines, particularly focusing on the immunogenicity triggered by poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG), a crucial hydrophilic polymer stabiliser used in LNP formulations. We propose substituting the immunogenic PEG in LNP formulations with a superior class of hydrophilic sulfoxide polymers that demonstrate enhanced stealth performance and lower immunogenic risk. Through this substitution, the project will develop advanced LNPs with improved immunosafety for safer and more effective delivery of mRNA vaccines.

Experts

Dr Changkui Fu

NHMRC Emerging Leadership Fellow
Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology
Changkui Fu
Changkui Fu

Professor Andrew Whittaker

Affiliate of Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Green Electrochemical Transformati
ARC COE for Green Electrochemical Transformation of Carbon Dioxide
Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology
Affiliate Professor
School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences
Faculty of Science
Professorial Research Fellow and Senior Group Leader
Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology
Andrew Whittaker
Andrew Whittaker

Professor Megan O'Mara

Affiliate of ARC COE for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science
ARC COE for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science
Institute for Molecular Bioscience
Affiliate Professor of School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences
School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences
Faculty of Science
Professorial Research Fellow and Group Leader
Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology
Megan O'Mara
Megan O'Mara