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Abstract: The synthesis of soluble, shape-persistent macrocycles is important for developing new materials. Double Duff formylation of 4,5-dialkylcatechol derivatives yields 3,6-diformyl-4,5-dialkylcatechols in moderate yields. These hexasubstituted aromatics are useful precursors to highly substituted Schiff base macrocycles. We illustrate convenient routes to these compounds as well as structural studies of two new macrocycles with alkyl substituents. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• siRNA nanovehicles were micronized using supercritical CO 2 -assisted spray drying. • The siRNA integrity was preserved through the micronization process. • The ultrafine dry powders showed aerodynamic diameters of 3.5 μm and FPF above 40% • The micronized siRNA powders achieved 90% of silencing for the mutant KRAS gene. • Alveolar in vivo biodistribution was achieved in healthy mice following inhalation. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) therapy has significant potential for the treatment of myriad diseases, including cancer. While intravenous routes of delivery have been found to be effective for efficient targeting to the liver, achieving high accumulations selectively in other organs, including lung tissues, can be a challenge. We demonstrate the rational design and engineering of a layer-by-layer (LbL) nanoparticle-containing aerosol that is able to achieve efficient, multistage delivery of siRNA in vitro. For the purpose, LbL nanoparticles were, for the first time, encapsulated in composite porous micro scale particles using a supercritical CO2-assisted spray drying (SASD) apparatus using chitosan as an excipient. Such particles exhibited aerodynamic properties highly favorable for pulmonary administration, and effective silencing of mutant KRAS in lung cancer cells derived from tumors of a non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) autochthonous model. Furthermore, efficient alveolar accumulation following inhalation in healthy mice was also observed, corroborating in vitro aerodynamic results, and opening new perspectives for further studies of effective lung therapies These results show that multistage aerosols assembled by supercritical CO 2 -assisted spray drying can enable efficient RNA interference therapy of pulmonary diseases including lung cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]