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Selecting an LNP Characterization Workflow

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NanoImaging Services Team
October 15, 2025

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CryoTEM characterization of LNP loaded and nonloaded status and blebs

What LNP workflow is right for you?

Lipid nanoparticles are increasingly used for drug delivery, however their tendency to be heterogeneous leads to challenges in characterization. Only cryo-TEM provides data on morphology, lamellarity, size distribution, & payload in just one study.  

Our new LNP cryo-TEM imaging services provide flexible workflows designed around your specific needs. From quick high volume cryo-TEM screening to in-depth imaging studies with quantitative and qualitative analysis, we work with you to tailor studies to your requirements.  

Rapid Answers for Multiple Formulations

Get fast answers on your LNP formulations with our screening package. We assess multiple samples quickly, so you can make decisions and keep your project moving.

Screening Study Imaging Study
Overview Rapid screening suitable for a fast look at many samples with a rapid turnaround In-depth study with a quantitative assessment of your LNPs, including bleb and payload analysis.
Turnaround Time Under 1 week ~2–4 weeks, rush services available
Number of Images 5 <60
Sample Optimization Not Included Included
Deliverables Methods report Methods report and table of quantitative results
Suitable for Analysis? No Yes

Why would you use the screening workflow?

black and white cryo-tem image of lipid nanoparticle characterization
  • You need to compare samples for quick go/no-go decisions
  • You want to make quick assessments about formulation quality
  • You would like to skip the queue and scheduling difficulties

We will perform cryo-TEM screening on our Glacios microscopes for up to 6 LNP samples at a time, at 73kx magnification.

You will receive a methods report and 5 images per sample that can be accessed in our client viewer portal. Turnaround time is within one week of sample submission.  

What if I need a more comprehensive look at my LNPs?

We offer a more rigorous in-depth imaging & analysis service that can provide a qualitative and quantitative assessment of your LNPs. Keep scrolling to learn more.

More Data for Informed Decisions

Our LNP analysis workflow provides per-particle analysis that cannot be obtained by any other technique.

black and white cryo-tem image of lipid nanoparticle characterization showing mrna loaded mrna unloaded and blebbed particles

Why would you use the analysis workflow?

  • You need quantitative data on blebbing and payload
  • You want to visualize irregularly shaped particles
  • You want a more thorough analysis of your samples  

Deliverables include a detailed report of methods, with images and quantitative data on blebbing and payload analysis of 250 particles or all relevant particles in images taken. You will also receive access to all images in our client viewer portal. The turnaround time is under four weeks from sample submission.

To see an example report, email us at nischr@nanoimagingservices.com.  

To see the data about our LNP payload analysis, download the whitepaper.

What if I need to submit this data for IND or regulatory filings?

Submitting for regulatory approval? We run your project under GxP-compliant workflows with validated methods designed for your specific requirements. Get data that meets regulatory standards: reliable, reproducible, and audit-ready.

Depending on your project needs, we can customize your cryo-TEM imaging study to include qualitative assessments, particle size distribution, morphology analysis, or cryo-electron tomography.

Particle size distribution analysis

What’s Next?

Ready to find the right LNP workflow for your project? Contact us or schedule a consultation with our experts. We'll discuss your goals and guide you to the most suitable workflow option.

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New LNP cryo-TEM imaging services provide flexible workflows designed for your project | lipid nanoparticle characterization services

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