<p>Ensuring the safety and thorough characterization of our lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) was a central part of our project, as these particles are intended for use in biological systems. We implemented a comprehensive range of assays and techniques to assess their biosafety and physical properties, ensuring their suitability for applications such as drug delivery and gene therapy. Below is an overview of the key steps we took in our assessment.</p>
<H5text="MTT Assay"></H5>
<H4text="MTT Assay"></H4>
<p>To evaluate the cytotoxicity of our LNPs, we conducted an MTT assay, which measures the metabolic activity of cells. This assay is based on the ability of living cells to reduce MTT, a yellow tetrazolium salt, into purple formazan crystals through NAD(P)H-dependent enzymes. Cells were treated with various concentrations of LNPs, and after dissolving the formazan crystals with DMSO, we measured absorbance. Higher absorbance values indicate greater cell viability. Our results showed no significant reduction in cell viability across all LNP concentrations, demonstrating that the LNPs did not induce cytotoxic effects. This finding is crucial for ensuring that the LNPs are safe for biological use, supporting their potential in clinical applications such as drug delivery and gene therapy. Overall, the MTT assay provided strong evidence of the biocompatibility of our LNPs. </p>
<H5text="Proliferation Assay to Monitor Long-Term Safety"></H5>
<H4text="Proliferation Assay to Monitor Long-Term Safety"></H4>
<p>In addition to assessing immediate cytotoxicity, we also evaluated the long-term safety of the LNPs by conducting a proliferation assay. This assay tracked cell division and growth over time to determine whether the LNPs impacted cellular function. Our results showed that LNP-treated cells had similar growth rates to untreated controls, indicating that the LNPs do not interfere with normal cell processes. This further confirms their biocompatibility and suitability for use in biological systems.</p>
<p>To assess the transfection efficiency of our LNPs, we used fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). This method involved tagging the LNPs with fluorescent markers and measuring their ability to deliver genetic material into target cells. FACS provided quantitative insights into how effectively the LNPs transfected cells, helping us optimize their design for gene therapy applications. </p>
</Subesction>
<Subesctiontitle="In-Depth Characterization of LNPs"id="In-Depth Characterization of LNPs">
<H5text="Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) and Zeta Potential"></H5>
<H4text="Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) and Zeta Potential"></H4>
<p>We used dynamic light scattering (DLS) to measure the size distribution and polydispersity index (PDI) of our LNPs. This technique allowed us to confirm that the LNPs had a consistent size distribution with minimal aggregation, which is essential for their stability. Additionally, we measured the zeta potential of the LNPs to assess their surface charge. A high zeta potential confirmed that the LNPs were stable in suspension, which is critical for their effectiveness in biological environments. </p>
<H5text="Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Cryo-TEM for Structural Analysis"></H5>
<H4text="SEM and Cryo-EM for Structural Analysis"></H4>
<p>To further characterize the morphology and surface structure of the LNPs, we employed scanning electron microscopy (SEM). SEM provided high-resolution images that confirmed the spherical shape and uniformity of the LNPs. Additionally, cryo-transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM) allowed us to investigate the internal structure of the LNPs, revealing the presence of lipid layers and encapsulated materials, which are crucial for understanding their function in drug delivery. </p>
<H5text="DNase Assay for Stability of Encapsulated Material "></H5>
<p>Finally, we conducted a DNase assay to evaluate whether the LNPs could protect encapsulated nucleic acids, such as mRNA, from enzymatic degradation. This assay demonstrated that the LNPs successfully shielded the genetic material, ensuring its stability until it reaches target cells. </p>
{/* <H4 text="DNase Assay for Stability of Encapsulated Material "></H4>
<p>Finally, we conducted a DNase assay to evaluate whether the LNPs could protect encapsulated nucleic acids, such as mRNA, from enzymatic degradation. This assay demonstrated that the LNPs successfully shielded the genetic material, ensuring its stability until it reaches target cells. </p> */}
</Subesction>
<Subesctiontitle="Conclusion"id="Conclusion">
<H5text="Importance of Safety in LNP Development"></H5>
<H4text="Importance of Safety in LNP Development"></H4>
<p>Testing the safety of our LNPs was a critical step in their development. LNPs are increasingly being used in cutting-edge therapies, such as mRNA vaccines and targeted drug delivery systems. For these technologies to be viable, the nanoparticles must not harm the cells they are intended to interact with. The MTT and proliferation assays provided robust data, confirming the biocompatibility of our LNPs and reinforcing their potential for safe use in further research and clinical applications. </p>