Development of alginate-based microgel for the controlled release of Sendai Virus

• Grant number: 25/07481-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: July 01, 2025
• End date: June 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Biomedical Engineering - Bioengineering
• Principal Investigator: Roberta Sessa Stilhano Yamaguchi
• Grantee: Larissa Emlym Alves Pinto
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências Médicas da Santa Casa de São Paulo (FCMSCSP). Fundação Arnaldo Vieira de Carvalho. São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Gene therapy has emerged as a promising approach for various clinical conditions, yet the efficient and controlled delivery of viral vectors remains a challenge. The Sendai virus (SeV) stands out as an innovative alternative to traditional vectors, offering high transduction efficiency, exclusively cytoplasmic replication, and reduced mutagenic risk. To enhance its therapeutic potential, the combination with biomaterials such as alginate enables more controlled and sustained release. However, conventional encapsulation methods often result in heterogeneous particles and unpredictable vector release. To overcome these limitations, this study proposes the use of the Air-Jet system, which allows for fine-tuned control over microcapsule formation, ensuring greater uniformity, stability, and precision in vector delivery. This innovative approach enhances the performance of viral vector-based gene therapies and expands the applicability of advanced gene delivery systems, paving the way for new strategies in regenerative medicine and advanced therapies. (AU)