The University of Strathclyde is undertaking a pioneering project to digitise drug development, with a particular focus on RNA medicines using lipid nanoparticles. This groundbreaking effort aims to revolutionise the traditional drug creation process, which can take years and cost billions, by employing a digital approach that promises to speed up the process and make treatments more accessible.
The project is part of a broader initiative involving the establishment of the Intracellular Drug Delivery Centre, a partnership between the University of Strathclyde, CPI, Medicines Discovery Catapult, the University of Liverpool, and Imperial College London. Funded by Innovate UK’s Transforming Medicines Manufacturing programme with a grant of £10 million over three years, the Centre will provide new capabilities for mRNA-based drug development and the manufacture of cost-effective vaccines and therapeutics in the UK.
According to Professor Yvonne Perrie, Head of Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences at the University of Strathclyde: “This Centre will provide new capabilities for mRNA-based drug development and manufacture of cost-effective vaccines and therapeutics in the UK, boosting not only economic growth but also security of supply.”
Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have emerged as a powerful tool for drug delivery, particularly for RNA-based therapeutics. They can encapsulate RNA, protect it from degradation, and facilitate its uptake and delivery into the cytosol of target cells. The development of LNPs for RNA delivery involves various formulation techniques, including solvent-based emulsification methods and microfluidic mixing devices, which can significantly enhance the encapsulation efficiency and stability of LNPs.
The potential impact of this project on healthcare affordability and availability could be substantial. By accelerating the drug development process and making treatments more accessible, it could reshape how future medical treatments are received.
The University of Strathclyde is spearheading a groundbreaking £10 million drug development project in collaboration with CPI, Medicines Discovery Catapult, and other esteemed universities. This ambitious initiative focuses on advancing lipid nanoparticle formulations – tiny carriers designed to deliver RNA medicines precisely to their intended targets within the body. The project aims not only to create new drugs but also to enhance their effectiveness and affordability for the broader population.
The University of Strathclyde’s Institute of Pharmacy & Biomedical Sciences has a robust track record in drug discovery and development, having already made significant strides in areas such as anti-cancer drug manufacturing, with over a million units produced and used globally.
This latest project builds on this foundation, leveraging expertise from various specialists, including innovative delivery methods pioneered by Professor Hannah Batchelor and research by Dr Christine Dufès, utilising state-of-the-art facilities with advanced clean rooms and analytical laboratories that adhere to stringent regulatory standards. The initiative places strong emphasis on training early-career researchers through specialised courses and network-building activities. As part of this effort, the funding for AI in life sciences may also assist in transformational breakthroughs in drug delivery systems relevant to RNA medicines.
The project’s impact extends beyond the laboratory. It’s expected to contribute significantly to the UK’s economic growth and ensure a stable supply of essential medicines. For students interested in pharmaceutical sciences and individuals concerned about better healthcare, this initiative represents a pivotal step forward in developing and accessing medicines in the future.
