C18 NC-TNP is a novel noncationic thiourea lipid without positively charged groups. It binds nucleic acids via hydrogen bonds instead of electrostatic attraction, avoiding cation-triggered systemic inflammation. Formulated into nanoparticles, it efficiently encapsulates mRNA, siRNA and plasmids, shows excellent serum tolerance and long-term liquid/lyophilized storage stability. It enters cells mainly through macropinocytosis, escapes endosomes intact to reduce nucleic acid degradation. In vivo, it targets spleen preferentially, induces robust long-lasting Th1-type cellular and humoral immunity with minimal organ toxicity, superior to SM102 LNPs for mRNA cancer vaccine delivery.
