Messenger RNA (mRNA) is the template for protein biosynthesis and is emerging as an essential active molecule to combat various diseases, including viral infection and cancer. Especially, mRNA-based vaccines, as a new type of vaccine, have played a leading role in fighting against the current global pandemic of COVID-19. However, the inherent drawbacks, including large size, negative charge, and instability, hinder its use as a therapeutic agent. Lipid carriers are distinguishable and promising vehicles for mRNA delivery, owning the capacity to encapsulate and deliver negatively charged drugs to the targeted tissues and release cargoes at the desired time. Here, we first summarized the structure and properties of different lipid carriers, such as liposomes, liposome-like nanoparticles, solid lipid nanoparticles, lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, exosomes and lipoprotein particles, and their applications in delivering mRNA. Then, the development of lipid-based formulations as vaccine delivery systems was discussed and highlighted. Recent advancements in the mRNA vaccine of COVID-19 were emphasized. Finally, we described our future vision and perspectives in this field.

信使 RNA (mRNA) 是蛋白质生物合成的模板，正在成为对抗各种疾病（包括病毒感染和癌症）的重要活性分子。尤其是基于mRNA的疫苗作为一种新型疫苗，在抗击当前全球大流行的COVID-19中发挥了主导作用。然而，其固有的缺点，包括大尺寸、负电荷和不稳定，阻碍了其作为治疗剂的应用。脂质载体是独特且有前途的 mRNA 递送载体，具有封装带负电荷的药物并将其递送至目标组织并在所需时间释放药物的能力。在这里，我们首先总结了不同脂质载体，如脂质体、类脂质纳米颗粒、固体脂质纳米颗粒、脂质聚合物杂化纳米颗粒、纳米乳、外泌体和脂蛋白颗粒的结构和性质，以及它们在递送mRNA方面的应用。然后，讨论并强调了作为疫苗递送系统的脂质制剂的开发。强调了 COVID-19 mRNA 疫苗的最新进展。最后，我们描述了我们在这个领域的未来愿景和观点。