Don’t shoot the messenger: non‑viral delivery’s real‑world revolution
Cell and Gene Therapy Insights 2026; 12(5), 503–507
10.18609/cgti.2026.058
Non‑viral delivery systems (such as lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), polymeric carriers, lipid‑polymer hybrids, etc.) are no longer only an enabling technology. They are becoming a big player in advanced and personalised medicines reaching patients at scale. As the complexity of the therapeutic systems increase, so does the inadequacy of the existing analytical and regulatory frameworks designed to describe and manage them. This text asserts that fit‑for‑purpose evaluation frameworks will not arise from within a single sector alone, but requires structured, sustained, and reciprocal dialogue between the develop, the regulator, the instrument manufacturers, and the clinicians. The current state of analytical practice is based on techniques like dynamic light scattering (DLS) and RiboGreen fluorescence assays through to cell‑based potency measurements, where compliance with requirements which emerge from the regulated environment quality control plays a key role. Emerging structural characterization, such as that enabled at synchrotron facilities, are becoming more eminent and contribute strong fundamental scientific insight. Such improvement and expansion of control strategies is clearly needed and requires collective and collaborative investment.