High-throughput pH Characterization of Lipid Nanoparticle Formulations
Faculty Advisor: Alessandra Ferzoco
Sponsor: Moderna
Moderna's mission is to deliver the greatest possible impact to people through mRNA medicines. mRNA is an information molecule that instructs cells to produce specific proteins that can treat or prevent disease. mRNA molecules are encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles that serve as delivery vehicles, protecting mRNA until it reaches the target cells. Rapid development of new drug formulations requires thorough chemical and physical characterization of lipid nanoparticle – mRNA formulations. pH measurement is one of the key factors that contributes to the success of a drug formulations. The Olin SCOPE team was tasked with designing a device to perform 96 pH measurements within 15 minutes. This first-in-class technology is an order of magnitude faster than current methods and will greatly expedite the characterization of new formulations.
Faculty Advisor:
- Alessandra Ferzoco
Team Members:
- Chris Bocamazo
- Ian Eykamp
- Cara Mulrooney
- Van Myers
- Antionette Tan