PhD defence
Investigating lipid formulations for efficient RNA delivery using zebrafish models
- D. Bi
- Date
- Tuesday 11 November 2025
- Time
- Address
-
Academy Building
Rapenburg 73
2311 GJ Leiden
Supervisor(s)
Summary
RNA-based medicines, such as vaccines, are a rapidly growing field with the potential to treat many diseases. However, getting RNA safely and effectively into the right cells remains a major challenge. My research focused on improving lipid nanoparticles, which are the most promising delivery system for RNA.
To study how these nanoparticles behave in the body, I used zebrafish embryos, a transparent and cost-effective model that allows us to see how particles move and which organs they target. With this approach, I uncovered how certain design choices—such as the type of lipids used, their size, and the way they are manufactured—affect both the accuracy of delivery and the efficiency of RNA activity in cells. For example, I showed that changing the protective “shielding” lipids can influnce the effect of mRNA, and nanoparticle size can help avoid unwanted accumulation in organs. I also demonstrated that customized, low-cost production methods can make lipid nanoparticles just as effective as commercial ones.
These findings contribute to making RNA-based medicines safer, more effective, and more widely accessible. The zebrafish model also offers a valuable tool for researchers, helping to bridge the gap between laboratory experiments and more complex animal studies.
PhD dissertations
Approximately one week after the defence, PhD dissertations by Leiden PhD students are available digitally through the Leiden Repository, that offers free access to these PhD dissertations. Please note that in some cases a dissertation may be under embargo temporarily and access to its full-text version will only be granted later.
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