Preparation of multifunctional nanoparticles using microfluidics

However, optimisation of formulation parameters was necessary for particular liposomal formulations where the engineered liposomes were heterogeneous regardless of the processing parameters (or liposome size). Secondly, microfluidic production of lysolipid-containing thermosensitive liposomes (LTSL) was investigated. Modification of formulation parameters was required to avoid ethanol-induced interdigitation.

Upon increasing PEG-lipid content in the formulation, homogeneous LTSL were successfully prepared. Thirdly, microfluidic production of fluorescent dye indocyanine green (ICG)-loaded liposomes was studied for potential imaging and photothermal applications. Lastly, encapsulation of hydrophobic superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPION) into LTSL was explored for their theranostic applications.

Solvent compatibility of the microfluidic device was shown to be a limiting factor, which necessitated modifications of the preparation technique. Nanoprecipitation of SPION-loaded LTSL was successfully demonstrated by optimisation of the solvent system and concentration of SPION. This thesis demonstrated the capability of microfluidics in preparing multifunctional liposomes, enabling their continuous and scalable production.<br>