Choosing the right delivery vector for your gene editing program
Gendelivr specializes in LNP optimization — but we'll tell you straight when a different vector class is more appropriate for your target. Here's a grounded comparison.
Vector comparison
For in-vivo gene editing programs with a hepatic target and mRNA-based CRISPR components, LNP is the dominant choice — but the tradeoffs matter.
| Property | LNP | AAV | Lentivirus | Exosome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Payload capacity | Unlimited | ~4.7 kb | ~8 kb | Variable (~1–3 µg mRNA) |
| Genomic integration | None | Rare (<1%) | Required | None |
| Hepatic selectivity (IV) | High (ApoE-mediated) | High (serotype-dependent) | Low | Low without targeting ligand |
| Re-dosing | Yes | Limited (anti-AAV NAbs) | No | Yes |
| Innate immune response | Low–moderate (modified mRNA) | Moderate (capsid) | High | Low |
| Manufacturing scalability | High (microfluidic) | Moderate (baculovirus) | Moderate (HEK293) | Low (cell-derived) |
| Regulatory precedent | Strong (COVID mRNA, siRNA) | Strong (Luxturna, Zolgensma) | CAR-T approved | Preclinical |
| Gendelivr optimizes? | Yes | No | No | No |
Explore individual vectors
Lipid Nanoparticle (LNP)
Structure, formulation parameters, delivery mechanism, and why LNP is the preferred vector for mRNA CRISPR programs targeting the liver.
LNP deep diveAdeno-Associated Virus (AAV)
Capsid biology, serotype organ tropism, payload constraints, and the neutralizing antibody limitation. When AAV outperforms LNP and when it doesn't.
AAV deep diveExosomes Coming soon
Cell-derived extracellular vesicles as delivery vehicles. Natural stealth, endogenous targeting, and manufacturing scale challenges.
Not sure which vector is right for your program?
Tell us your target tissue, payload, and route of administration. We'll give you an honest assessment — including cases where LNP may not be optimal.