Lipid nanoparticles engineered to target therapeutic RNA to the pancreas

Nature

by Aviad Elisha

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Scientists have developed a groundbreaking strategy using lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) to deliver therapeutic RNA directly to the pancreas, addressing a major limitation in drug delivery systems that often causes LNPs to accumulate in the liver. This innovative approach, described in *Nature*, successfully targets specific cell populations in the pancreas and shows promise in animal models for treating serious pancreatic diseases. The study highlights the challenges of directing nanoparticles to specific organs and cell types beyond the liver. By engineering LNPs with a dual-targeting strategy, researchers were able to overcome this limitation. The two-pronged approach involved modifying the surface properties of the nanoparticles to navigate through biological barriers and incorporating targeting molecules that specifically bind to pancreatic cells. This breakthrough could unlock new treatment options for conditions like pancreatic cancer and diabetes, which are notoriously difficult to treat. The research demonstrates how advancements in nanotechnology can improve therapeutic outcomes by enhancing the precision and efficiency of drug delivery. By bypassing the liver and targeting the pancreas more effectively, this method reduces off-target effects and increases the concentration of therapeutic agents where they are needed most. This targeted approach not only improves treatment efficacy but

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Originally published on Nature on 2/26/2026