Leveraging machine learning to streamline the development of liposomal drug delivery systems.

Journal: Journal of controlled release : official journal of the Controlled Release Society
PMID:

Abstract

Drug delivery systems efficiently and safely administer therapeutic agents to specific body sites. Liposomes, spherical vesicles made of phospholipid bilayers, have become a powerful tool in this field, especially with the rise of microfluidic manufacturing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite its efficiency, microfluidic liposomal production poses challenges, often requiring laborious, optimization on a case-by-case basis. This is due to a lack of comprehensive understanding and robust methodologies, compounded by limited data on microfluidic production with varying lipids. Artificial intelligence offers promise in predicting lipid behaviour during microfluidic production, with the still unexploited potential of streamlining development. Herein we employ machine learning to predict critical quality attributes and process parameters for microfluidic-based liposome production. Validated models predict liposome formation, size, and production parameters, significantly advancing our understanding of lipid behaviour. Extensive model analysis enhanced interpretability and investigated underlying mechanisms, supporting the transition to microfluidic production. Unlocking the potential of machine learning in drug development can accelerate pharmaceutical innovation, making drug delivery systems more adaptable and accessible.

Authors

  • Remo Eugster
    Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
  • Markus Orsi
    Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
  • Giorgio Buttitta
    Department of Chemistry and Technologies of Drugs, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Lazio, Italy.
  • Nicola Serafini
    Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, PU, Italy.
  • Mattia Tiboni
    Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, PU, Italy.
  • Luca Casettari
    Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, PU, Italy.
  • Jean-Louis Reymond
    Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Bern Freiestrasse 3 3012 Bern Switzerland.
  • Simone Aleandri
    Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland. Electronic address: simone.aleandri@unibe.ch.
  • Paola Luciani
    Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.