Hybrid Nanoparticle Synthesis via Swirling Microvortex Mixing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for producing hybrid nanoparticles are non-standardized and involve complex multi-step processes, making it difficult to mass-produce uniform and stable nanoparticles, especially those incorporating functional proteins like apolipoproteins.

Innovation Solution

A method using a swirling microvortex device to produce hybrid nanoparticles by injecting phospholipids and polymers into separate inlets and mixing them under controlled swirling conditions, allowing for the incorporation of apolipoproteins into the nanoparticles.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If non-standardized multi-step processes such as nanoprecipitation and emulsification-based solvent evaporation are used, then hybrid nanoparticles can be produced, but it is difficult to mass-produce uniform and stable nanoparticles

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveuniformity of nanoparticle sizeVSAvoidcomplexity of synthesis process

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The synthesis process is segmented into distinct functional modules: a microfluidic device for controlled mixing and nanoparticle formation, followed by a separate purification step. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently, achieving uniform nanoparticle production while simplifying the overall process for mass production

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention replaces complex chemical synthesis mechanisms with a physical mixing approach using microfluidic flow. By controlling fluid dynamics rather than chemical reactions, the process achieves uniform nanoparticle formation through precise flow rate control, eliminating the need for complex multi-step chemical synthesis procedures

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If functional proteins are incorporated through many processes, then hybrid nanoparticles with various functionalities can be produced, but uniformity and stability are lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctional versatility of nanoparticlesVSAvoidstability of nanoparticle structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

Functional proteins are pre-mixed with the polymer solution before nanoparticle formation in the microfluidic device. This preliminary action ensures uniform protein distribution throughout the nanoparticle structure from the moment of formation, maintaining both functional versatility and structural stability without requiring additional post-synthesis modification steps

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Quantity of substance

If complex multi-step processes are used to incorporate proteins, then functional proteins can be incorporated into nanoparticles, but mass production becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveamount of protein incorporatedVSAvoidmass production capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The microfluidic device enables continuous flow synthesis where polymer solution and protein solution are continuously mixed and processed through the device. This continuous action allows for steady-state production with consistent protein incorporation, dramatically increasing productivity compared to batch processing while maintaining high protein content in each nanoparticle

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The method enables the production of small, uniform, and stable hybrid nanoparticles that can effectively incorporate and deliver proteins, enhancing their physiological activities and stability, thus facilitating safer and more efficient drug delivery.

Implementation Method 1

mixing them under controlled swirling conditions

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectVortex: Vortex Ring

Implementation Method 2

injecting phospholipids and polymers into separate inlets and mixing them under controlled swirling conditions

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMicrofluidic mixing: Turbulence

Implementation Method 3

adding a protein to the hybrid nanoparticle by colliding the protein with the hybrid nanoparticle under a swirling microvortex

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectVortex: Vortex Ring

Implementation Method 4

colliding the protein with the hybrid nanoparticle under a swirling microvortex

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectShear flow: Shear Stress

Data Source

PatentEP4537818A1Method for synthesizing hybrid nanoparticles containing apolipoproteins

Publication Date: 2025.04.16 MEPSGEN CO LTD

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AI summary

The present invention relates to a method for synthesizing hybrid nanoparticles comprising apolipoproteins. Specifically, the present invention relates to a method for synthesizing hybrid nanoparticles by using a swirling microvortex device, wherein the hybrid nanoparticles may include proteins that include apolipoproteins and have various functionalities. A production method according to the present invention can be used to produce small, uniform, stable nanoparticles having various physiological activities.