Boosting ribosomal translation <i>via</i> ionizable lipid-hydrogel microplexes for localized mRNA therapy.

Chen, Yanyang; He, Wei; Ling, Shifeng; Zhou, Yang; Chen, Jie; Du, Yawei; Mo, Ran; Cui, Wenguo · Bioact Mater · 2026

basic_science · Level V

Where this comes from

Abstract

mRNA therapy holds immense promise for regenerative medicine; however, localized endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) in damaged tissues can impair the critical process of ribosomal translation. Here, we developed an <i>in situ</i> injectable lipid nanoparticle (LNP)/microsphere complex, also referred to as a lipid-hydrogel microplex (iLMP), with ERS-alleviating functionality to increase ribosomal translation. A vitamin E-derived ionizable lipid was synthesized to replace conventional ionizable lipids in LNPs, whereas porous hydrogel microspheres stabilized the LNPs <i>via</i> physical adsorption. <i>In vitro</i> studies revealed that the iLMPs codelivered vitamin E and mRNA, mitigating ERS and reducing eIF2α phosphorylation, a key translational barrier. Additionally, iLMPs injected <i>in situ</i> rapidly reconstructed the extracellular matrix, promoting tissue repair. In a bone defect animal model, iLMPs significantly enhanced BMP-2 mRNA translation, promoting osteogenesis. In summary, we present a novel <i>in situ</i> injectable mRNA delivery platform that enhances ribosomal translation, offering a promising strategy for tissue regeneration.