Biopolymer nanoparticles: a strategy to enhance stability, bioavailability, and biological effects of phenolic compounds as functional ingredients

Deciphering the importance of nanoencapsulation to improve the availability of bioactive molecules in food sources to the human body

Various bodily functions are maintained, and health benefits are provided by food-derived bioactive components. Fruits and vegetables contain numerous beneficial components, including vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, enzymes, and phytonutrients. However, the body's ability to absorb these substances at a given rate and degree frequently limits their bioavailability. If food-derived bio actives are used as therapeutic or dietary interventions, this limitation can result in low efficacy and suboptimal results. Recently, nanotechnology has been a useful method for increasing the bioavailability of bioactive compounds produced from food. Active ingredients can be delivered and absorbed more efficiently with the help of nanotechnology. By altering their size or surface properties, bioactive components can be made more soluble, permeable, and bioavailable through nanotechnology. The present review will provide an overview of the various bioactive components, the application of nanotechnology to improve the availability of bioactive molecules to humans and animals, and the challenges and safety concerns associated with nanotechnology in the production of food-derived bioactive molecules.

Formulation, Characterization, and Antioxidant Properties of Chitosan Nanoparticles Containing Phenolic Compounds from Olive Pomace

Olive phenolic compounds like hydroxytyrosol (OH-Tyr), tyrosol (Tyr), and their precursors have different health-promoting properties, mainly based on their strong antioxidant capacity. However, their presence in extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) is scarce since they are primarily contained in the by-products of oil production, such as olive pomace (OP). The aim of this work was to extract and encapsulate OP phenolic compounds into chitosan-tripolyphosphate nanoparticles (NPs) using an ionotropic gelation lyophilization approach to increase their resistance to environmental and chemical stress. NPs resulted in a monodisperse (PDI: 0.21) population of cationic NPs (ζ-potential: 33 mV, size: 229 nm) with an encapsulation efficiency (EE%), expressed as total phenolic content (TPC) and total OH-Tyr + Tyr content, of 64-65%. Mannitol and maltodextrin DE 19 (MD-19) were evaluated as lyoprotectants to counteract irreversible NP aggregation during lyophilization. The NP powder freeze dried using 0.7% of MD-19 showed the best performance, returning a monodispersed population of particles after rehydration. The antioxidant capacity of the obtained NPs was confirmed both in cell-free assays and in a THP-1 cell model of oxidative stress. This method represents a promising way to deliver health-promoting olive phenols for nutraceutical purposes and, hence, to valorize otherwise wasted by-products.

Synergistic Integration of Carbon Quantum Dots in Biopolymer Matrices: An Overview of Current Advancements in Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Active Packaging

Approximately one-third of the world's food production, i.e., 1.43 billion tons, is wasted annually, resulting in economic losses of nearly USD 940 billion and undermining food system sustainability. This waste depletes resources, contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, and negatively affects food security and prices. Although traditional packaging preserves food quality, it cannot satisfy the demands of extended shelf life, safety, and sustainability. Consequently, active packaging using biopolymer matrices containing antioxidants and antimicrobials is a promising solution. This review examines the current advancements in the integration of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) into biopolymer-based active packaging, focusing on their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. CQDs provide unique advantages over traditional nanoparticles and natural compounds, including high biocompatibility, tunable surface functionality, and environmental sustainability. This review explores the mechanisms through which CQDs impart antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, their synthesis methods, and their functionalization to optimize the efficacy of biopolymer matrices. Recent studies have highlighted that CQD-enhanced biopolymers maintain biodegradability with enhanced antioxidant and antimicrobial functions. Additionally, potential challenges, such as toxicity, regulatory considerations, and scalability are discussed, offering insights into future research directions and industrial applications. This review demonstrates the potential of CQD-incorporated biopolymer matrices to transform active packaging, aligning with sustainability goals and advancing food preservation technologies.

Preparation and characterization of zein-caseinate-pectin complex nanoparticles for encapsulation of curcumin: pectin extracted by high-speed shearing from passion fruit (Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa) peel

BACKGROUND

Pectin extracted by high-speed shearing from passion fruit peel (HSSP) is a potentially excellent wall material for encapsulating curcumin, which has multiple advantages over pectin prepared by heated water extraction. HSSP was used to fabricate complex nanoparticles of zein-sodium caseinate-pectin for encapsulation of curcumin in this study. The influence of heating on the physicochemical properties of the composite nanoparticles was also investigated, as well as the effect of composite nanoparticles on the encapsulation efficiency, antioxidant activity and release characteristics of curcumin.

RESULTS

The nanoparticles were formed through electrostatic interactions, hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions between the proteins and HSSP. A temperature of 50 °C was more favorable for generating compact and small-sized nanoparticles, which could effectively improve the encapsulation efficiency and functional properties. Moreover, compared to other pectin used in the study, the nanoparticles prepared with HSSP showed the best functionality with a particle size of 234.28 ± 0.85 nm, encapsulation rate of 90.22 ± 0.54%, free radical scavenging rate of 78.97% and strongest protective capacity in simulated gastric fluid and intestinal release effect.

CONCLUSION

Zein-sodium caseinate-HSSP is effective for encapsulating and delivering hydrophobic bioactive substances such as curcumin, which has potential applications in the functional food and pharmaceutical industries. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Recent advances in nanodelivery systems of resveratrol and their biomedical and food applications: a review

Resveratrol is a non-flavonoid polyphenolic compound with numerous functional properties, such as anticancer, anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, anti-obesity and more. However, resveratrol's poor solubility within aqueous media and low stability usually lead to compromised bioavailability, ultimately limiting its uptake and applications. Nanodelivery technologies have been studied intensively due to their potential in effectively improving resveratrol properties, thereby providing promising solutions for enhancing the bioavailability of resveratrol. Thus, this article aimed to review the recent advances of resveratrol nanodelivery systems, specifically on the types of nanodelivery systems, the corresponding preparation principles, advantages, as well as potential limitations associated. Meanwhile, studies have also found that coupled with nanodelivery systems, the functional properties of resveratrol could trigger apoptosis in cancer cells and inflammatory cells through various signaling pathways. Therefore, this article will also lead into discussions on the application aspects of resveratrol nanodelivery systems, emphasizing toward the fields of biomedical and food sciences. Potential pitfalls of resveratrol nanodelivery systems, such as issues with toxicity and target release, as well as outlooks regarding resveratrol nanodelivery systems are included in the Conclusion section, in the hope to provide insights for relevant future research.

Antitoxin nanoparticles: design considerations, functional mechanisms, and applications in toxin neutralization

The application of nanotechnology has significantly advanced the development of novel platforms that enhance disease treatment and diagnosis. A key innovation in this field is the creation of antitoxin nanoparticles (ATNs), designed to address toxin exposure. These precision-engineered nanosystems have unique physicochemical properties and selective binding capabilities, allowing them to effectively capture and neutralize toxins from various biological, chemical, and environmental sources. In this review, we thoroughly examine their therapeutic and diagnostic potential for managing toxin-related challenges. We also explore recent advancements and offer critical insights into the design and clinical implementation of ATNs.

Green synthesis of chitosan gum acacia based biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles to enhance curcumin's antioxidant property: an in vivo zebrafish (Danio rerio) study

Green-synthesis of biodegradable polymeric curcumin-nanoparticles using affordable biodegradable polymers to enhance curcumin's solubility and anti-oxidative potential. The curcumin-nanoparticle was prepared based on the ionic-interaction method without using any chemical surfactants, and the particle-size, zeta-potential, surface-morphology, entrapmentefficiency, and in-vitro drug release study were used to optimise the formulation. The antioxidant activity was investigated using H2DCFDA staining in the zebrafish (Danio rerio) model. The mean-diameter of blank nanoparticles was 178.2 nm (±4.69), and that of curcuminnanoparticles was about 227.7 nm (±10.4), with a PDI value of 0.312 (±0.023) and 0.360 (±0.02). The encapsulation-efficacy was found to be 34% (±1.8), with significantly reduced oxidative-stress and toxicity (∼5 times) in the zebrafish model compared to standard curcumin. The results suggested that the current way of encapsulating curcumin using affordable, biodegradable, natural polymers could be a better approach to enhancing curcumin's water solubility and bioactivity, which could further be translated into potential therapeutics.

Food Proteins as Functional Ingredients in the Management of Chronic Diseases: A Concise Review

Chronic diseases have emerged as a formidable global health concern, with their prevalence steadily rising over the years. Several approaches to addressing these concerns include the use of medications, which are often expensive, contain synthetic chemical substances, and have reported adverse effects. The use of foods, especially proteins, as an alternative approach to addressing chronic health concerns by treating and managing chronic diseases is increasing. This review evaluates the intriguing role of food proteins in mitigating chronic diseases and improving our understanding of the therapeutic potential of different protein types, including those derived from legumes, nuts, and seeds, dairy, fish, and numerous other sources. They have been reported to offer promising avenues for managing chronic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic inflammation, weight management, bone health, glycemic control, muscle preservation, and many other health benefits. Although the exact mechanisms for these actions are still not properly elucidated, it is, however, understood that food proteins exert these health-beneficial effects by their unique nutritional and bioactive profiles, especially their bioactive peptides and amino acids. Practical applications are also discussed, including dietary interventions that are tailored towards incorporating protein-rich foods and the development of functional foods for disease prevention and management. Food proteins are a promising approach to combating chronic diseases that can turn around public health practices.

Co-delivery of carboplatin and doxorubicin using ZIF-8 coated chitosan-poly(N-isopropyl acrylamide) nanoparticles through a dual pH/thermo responsive strategy to breast cancer cells

A dual pH/temperature sensitive core-shell nanoformulation has been developed based on ZIF-8 coated with chitosan-poly(N-isopropyl acrylamide) (CS-PNIPAAm) for co-delivery of doxorubicin (DOX) and carboplatin (CBP) in breast cancer cells. The resulting nanoparticles (NPs) had particle sizes around 200 nm and a zeta potential of about +30 mV. The CBP and DOX loading contents in the final NPs were 11.6 % and 55.54 %, respectively. NPs showed a pH and thermoresponsive drug release profile with a sustained prolonged release under physiological conditions. The in vitro cytotoxicity experiments showed a significant synergism of CBP and DOX to induce the IC50 of 1.96 μg/mL in MCF-7 cells and 4.54 μg/mL in MDA-MB-231 cells. Also, the final NPs were safer than free DOX and CBP on normal cells. The in vitro study confirmed the higher potency of the designed NPs in combination therapy against breast cancer cells with lower side effects than free drugs.

Effect of incorporating modified pinhão starch in alginate-based hydrogel beads for encapsulation of bioactive compounds by hydrodynamic electrospray ionization jetting

Known for its antioxidant properties, Araucaria angustifolia bracts extract was encapsulated using hydrodynamic electrospray ionization jetting within calcium alginate cross-linked hydrogel beads with varying contents of modified pinhão starch. The rheological properties of the dispersions and analysis of the physicochemical and digestive properties of encapsulated beads were studied. The results demonstrated that dispersions containing starch exhibited higher viscosity and reduced compliance values, indicating samples with stronger, more compact, and stable structures that are less susceptible to deformation. This was confirmed by the beads rupture strength test. The ATR-FTIR analysis suggest that no new chemical bonds were formed, with encapsulation being responsible only for physical interactions between the functional groups of the polymers used and the active groups of the compounds present in the extract. The thermal stability of starch-containing beads was higher. Total tannins were higher in beads containing starch, with 53.61 %, 56.83 %, and 66.99 % encapsulation yield for samples with 2 %, 4 %, and 6 % starch, respectively, and the remaining antioxidant activity ranged from 96.04 % to 81.08 %. In vitro gastrointestinal digestion simulation indicated that the highest releases occurred in the intestinal phase, ranging from 60.72 % to 63.50 % for the release of total phenolic compounds.

Revolutionizing tropical fruits preservation: Emerging edible coating technologies

Tropical fruits, predominantly cultivated in Southeast Asia, are esteemed for their nutritional richness, distinctive taste, aroma, and visual appeal when consumed fresh. However, postharvest challenges have led to substantial global wastage, nearly 50 %. The advent of edible biopolymeric nanoparticles presents a novel solution to preserve the fruits' overall freshness. These nanoparticles, being edible, readily available, biodegradable, antimicrobial, antioxidant, Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS), and non-toxic, are commonly prepared via ionic gelation owing to the method's physical crosslinking, simplicity, and affordability. The resulting biopolymeric nanoparticles, with or without additives, can be employed in basic formulations or as composite blends with other materials. This study aims to review the capabilities of biopolymeric nanoparticles in enhancing the physical and sensory aspects of tropical fruits, inhibiting microbial growth, and prolonging shelf life. Material selection for formulation is crucial, considering coating materials, the fruit's epidermal properties, internal and external factors. A variety of application techniques are covered such as spraying, and layer-by-layer among others, including their advantages, and disadvantages. Finally, the study addresses safety measures, legislation, current challenges, and industrial perspectives concerning fruit edible coating films.

Complex bio-nanoparticles assembled by a pH-driven method: environmental stress stability and oil-water interfacial behavior

BACKGROUND

Protein-based nanoparticles have gained considerable interest in recent years due to their biodegradability, biocompatibility, and functional properties. However, nanoparticles formed from hydrophobic proteins are prone to instability under environmental stress, which restricts their potential applications. It is therefore of great importance to develop green approaches for the fabrication of hydrophobic protein-based nanoparticles and to improve their physicochemical performance.

RESULTS

Gliadin/shellac complex nanoparticles (168.87 ~ 403.67 nm) with various gliadin/shellac mass ratios (10:0 ~ 5:5) were prepared using a pH-driven approach. In comparison with gliadin nanoparticles, complex nanoparticles have shown enhanced stability against neutral pH, ions, and boiling. They remained stable under neutral conditions at NaCl concentrations ranging from 0 to 100 mmol L-1 and even when boiled at 100 °C for 90 min. These nanoparticles were capable of effectively reducing oil-water interfacial tension (5 ~ 11 mNm-1 ) but a higher amount of shellac in the nanoparticles compromised their ability to lower interfacial tension. Moreover, the wettability of the nanoparticles changed as the gliadin/shellac mass ratio changed, leading to a range of three-phase contact angles from 52.41° to 84.85°. Notably, complex nanoparticles with a gliadin/shellac mass ratio of 8:2 (G/S 8:2) showed a contact angle of 84.85°, which is considered suitable for the Pickering stabilization mechanism. Moreover, these nanoparticles exhibited the highest emulsifying activity of 52.42 m2 g-1 and emulsifying stability of 65.33%.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of the study revealed that gliadin/shellac complex nanoparticles exhibited excellent resistance to environmental stress and demonstrated superior oil-water interfacial behavior. They have strong potential for further development as food emulsifiers or as nano-delivery systems for nutraceuticals. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Folic Acid-Conjugated Chitosan-Coated Solid Lipid Nanoparticles: Precision Targeting of Artemisia vulgaris Essential Oils for Anticancer Therapy

In this study, we developed Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLN-NPs) loaded with Artemisia vulgaris essential oil and coated with folic acid-chitosan (AVEO-SCF-NPs) to enhance drug delivery in biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors. AVEO-SCF-NPs were synthesized using homogenization and ultra-sonication methods and comprehensively characterized. These nanoparticles exhibited a particle size of 253.67 nm, Polydispersity Index (PDI) of 0.26, zeta potential (ζ-p) of +39.96 mV, encapsulation efficiency (%EE) of 99.0 %, and folic acid binding efficiency (% FB) of 46.25 %. They effectively inhibited MCF-7, HT-29, and PC-3 cancer cells with IC50 values of 48.87 μg/mL, 88.48 μg/mL, and 121.34 μg/mL, respectively, and demonstrated antibacterial properties against Gram-positive strains. AVEO-SCF-NPs also exhibited scavenging effects on ABTS (IC50 : 203.83 μg/mL) and DPPH (IC50: 680.86 μg/mL) free radicals and inhibited angiogenesis, as confirmed through CAM and qPCR assays. Furthermore, these nanoparticles induced apoptosis, evidenced by up-regulation of caspase 3 and 9, down-regulation of TNF-α genes, and an increase in SubG1 phase cells. The high loading capacity of SCF-NPs for AVEO, coupled with their multifaceted biological properties, highlights AVEO-SCF-NPs as promising candidates for cancer therapy in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries.

Metabolomics-directed nanotechnology in viral diseases management: COVID-19 a case study

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is currently regarded as the twenty-first century's plague accounting for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Besides its reported symptoms affecting the respiratory tract, it was found to alter several metabolic pathways inside the body. Nanoparticles proved to combat viral infections including COVID-19 to demonstrate great success in developing vaccines based on mRNA technology. However, various types of nanoparticles can affect the host metabolome. Considering the increasing proportion of nano-based vaccines, this review compiles and analyses how COVID-19 and nanoparticles affect lipids, amino acids, and carbohydrates metabolism. A search was conducted on PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science for available information on the interrelationship between metabolomics and immunity in the context of SARS-CoV-2 infection and the effect of nanoparticles on metabolite levels. It was clear that SARS-CoV-2 disrupted several pathways to ensure a sufficient supply of its building blocks to facilitate its replication. Such information can help in developing treatment strategies against viral infections and COVID-19 based on interventions that overcome these metabolic changes. Furthermore, it showed that even drug-free nanoparticles can exert an influence on biological systems as evidenced by metabolomics.

Bimetallic hydrogels based on chitosan and carrageenan as promising materials for biological applications

In this study, novel crosslinked hydrogels based on chitosan (CS) and carrageenan (CRG) loaded with silver and/or copper nanoparticles (Ag/CuNPs) were prepared through a freeze-drying (thawing) process to be applied in biological applications comprising wound dressing. These hydrogels showed porous interconnected structures. The influence of the used nanoparticles (NPs) on the antibacterial properties of the CS/CRG hydrogels was explored. Antimicrobial results revealed that both CS/CRG/CuNPs, CS/CRG/AgNPs, and CS/CRG/Ag-CuNPs exhibited promising antibacterial and antifungal activity against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus mutans, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, and Candida albicans. Moreover, CS/CRG/AgNPs, CS/CRG/CuNPs, and CS/CRG/Ag-CuNPs hydrogels showed potential antioxidant activity to be 57%, 78%, and 89%, respectively. Furthermore, cytotoxicity results against Vero normal cell line confirmed that all designed hydrogels are safe upon usage. The bimetallic CS/CRG hydrogels showed notably enhanced antibacterial properties among the as-prepared hydrogels allowing them to be a successful material upon being employed in wound dressing applications.

Alginate-chitosan-microencapsulated tyrosols/oleuropein-rich olive mill waste extract for lipopolysaccharide-induced skin fibroblast inflammation treatment

The Ca2+ ion-driven emulsification-ionotropic gelation method produced chitosan-alginate microspheres (CAMSs) with a narrow particle size distribution (PSD). Particle size distribution and zeta potential studies, as well as spectral electron microscopy, were used to assess the microspheres' physicochemical properties and morphology. The tyrosols (hydroxytyrosol (HT), tyrosol (TY), and oleuropein (OE) were loaded into these microspheres using a polyphenol extract (PPE) from Koroneki olive mill waste (KOMW). The microencapsulation efficiency and loading capacity of microspheres for PPE were 98.8% and 3.9%, respectively. Three simulated fluids, including gastric (pH = 1.2), intestinal (pH = 6.8), and colonic (pH = 7.4), were used to examine how the pH of the releasing medium affected the ability of CAMSs to release bioactive phenols. At a severely acidic pH (1.2, SGF), PPE release is nearly halted, while at pH 6.8 (SCF), release is at its maximum. Additionally, the PPE-CAMPs have ameliorated the endogenous antioxidant content SOD, GST, GPx with significant values from 0.05 to 0.01 in the treated LPS/human skin fibroblast cells. The anti-inflammatory response was appeared through their attenuations activity for the released cytokines TNF-α, IL6, IL1β, and IL 12 with levels significantly from 0.01 to 0.001. Microencapsulation of PPE by CAMPs significantly improved its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capabilities.

Optimization of the conditions of alkaline extraction of tomato peels and characterization of tomato peel extracts obtained under atmospheric and oxygen free conditions

This study aims to optimize the extraction conditions to obtain the highest yield, to characterize tomato peel extract (TPE) under optimized conditions, and also to determine the effect of ambient oxygen on the properties of TPE. Optimisation were performed at three temperatures (60 °C, 80 °C, 100 °C) and three periods (2, 4, 6 h) by the response surface methodology. The properties of the extract under atmospheric and oxygen-free conditions (AC, OFC) were analysed to determine whether the characteristics of both extracts changed depending on the presence of oxygen; moreover, the morphological, chemical, thermal, biochemical, and antimicrobial properties were analysed. The maximum yield was 31.3% at 100 °C/6 h. A quadratic model was used to create the best fit. Both TPE samples exhibited similar morphological structure, similar weight losses at three stages of TGA curve, similar band assignments in FTIR spectra. GC-MS analysis showed that both samples mainly consisted of cutin in abundance of 70.45% and 68.14% for AC and OFC, respectively. OFC had higher total phenolic content possibly depending on the absence of oxygen. AC and OFC extracts exhibited substantial antimicrobial activity against S. aureus, E. coli, C. albicans, and A. brasiliensis with a MIC value of 100 μg TPE/ mL.

Advances in Functionalization of Bioresorbable Nanomembranes and Nanoparticles for Their Use in Biomedicine

Bioresorbable nanomembranes (NMs) and nanoparticles (NPs) are powerful polymeric materials playing an important role in biomedicine, as they can effectively reduce infections and inflammatory clinical patient conditions due to their high biocompatibility, ability to physically interact with biomolecules, large surface area, and low toxicity. In this review, the most common bioabsorbable materials such as those belonging to natural polymers and proteins for the manufacture of NMs and NPs are reviewed. In addition to biocompatibility and bioresorption, current methodology on surface functionalization is also revisited and the most recent applications are highlighted. Considering the most recent use in the field of biosensors, tethered lipid bilayers, drug delivery, wound dressing, skin regeneration, targeted chemotherapy and imaging/diagnostics, functionalized NMs and NPs have become one of the main pillars of modern biomedical applications.

Influence of environmental pH on the interaction properties of WP-EGCG non-covalent nanocomplexes

BACKGROUND

Whey protein-epigallocatechin gallate (WP-EGCG) covalent conjugates and non-covalent nanocomplexes were prepared and compared using Fourier-transform infrared spectra. The effect of pH (at 2.6, 6.2, 7.1, and 8.2) on the non-covalent nanocomplexes' functional properties and the WP-EGCG interactions were investigated by studying antioxidant activity, emulsification, fluorescence quenching, and molecular docking, respectively.

RESULTS

With the formation of non-covalent and covalent complexes, the amide band decreased; the -OH peak disappeared; the antioxidant activity of WP-EGCG non-covalent complexes was 2.59- and 2.61-times stronger than WP-EGCG covalent conjugates for 1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP), respectively (particle size: 137 versus 370 nm). The antioxidant activity (DPPH 27.48-44.32%, FRAP 0.47-0.63) was stronger at pH 6.2-7.1 than at pH 2.6 and pH 8.2 (DPPH 19.50% and 26.36%, FRAP 0.39 and 0.41). Emulsification was highest (emulsifying activity index 181 m²  g^-1 , emulsifying stability index 107%) at pH 7.1. The interaction between whey protein (WP) and EGCG was stronger under neutral and weakly acidic conditions: K_SV (5.11-8.95 × 10²  L mol^-1 ) and K_q (5.11-8.95 × 10¹⁰  L mol s^-1 ) at pH 6.2-7.1. Binding constants (pH 6.2 and pH 7.1) increased with increasing temperature. Molecular docking suggested that hydrophobic interactions played key roles at pH 6.2 and pH 7.1 (∆H > 0, ∆S > 0). Hydrogen bonding was the dominant force at pH 2.6 and pH 8.2 (∆H < 0, ∆S < 0).

CONCLUSION

Environmental pH impacted the binding forces of WP-EGCG nanocomplexes. The interaction between WP and EGCG was stronger under neutral and weakly acidic conditions. Neutral and weakly acidic conditions are preferable for WP-EGCG non-covalent nanocomplex formation. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Folic Acid-Modified Ibrutinib-Loaded Silk Fibroin Nanoparticles for Cancer Cell Therapy with Over-Expressed Folate Receptor

The anticancer drug ibrutinib (IB), also known as PCI-32765, is a compound that irreversibly inhibits Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) and was initially developed as a treatment option for B-cell lineage neoplasms. Its action is not limited to B-cells, as it is expressed in all hematopoietic lineages and plays a crucial role in the tumor microenvironment. However, clinical trials with the drug have resulted in conflicting outcomes against solid tumors. In this study, folic acid-conjugated silk nanoparticles were used for the targeted delivery of IB to the cancer cell lines HeLa, BT-474, and SKBR3 by exploiting the overexpression of folate receptors on their surfaces. The results were compared with those of control healthy cells (EA.hy926). Cellular uptake studies confirmed total internalization of the nanoparticles functionalized by this procedure in the cancer cells after 24 h, compared to nanoparticles not functionalized with folic acid, suggesting that cellular uptake was mediated by folate receptors overexpressed in the cancer cells. The results indicate that the developed nanocarrier can be used for drug targeting applications by enhancing IB uptake in cancer cells with folate receptor overexpression.

Modulating Inflammation-Mediated Diseases via Natural Phenolic Compounds Loaded in Nanocarrier Systems

The global increase and prevalence of inflammatory-mediated diseases have been a great menace to human welfare. Several works have demonstrated the anti-inflammatory potentials of natural polyphenolic compounds, including flavonoid derivatives (EGCG, rutin, apigenin, naringenin) and phenolic acids (GA, CA, etc.), among others (resveratrol, curcumin, etc.). In order to improve the stability and bioavailability of these natural polyphenolic compounds, their recent loading applications in both organic (liposomes, micelles, dendrimers, etc.) and inorganic (mesoporous silica, heavy metals, etc.) nanocarrier technologies are being employed. A great number of studies have highlighted that, apart from improving their stability and bioavailability, nanocarrier systems also enhance their target delivery, while reducing drug toxicity and adverse effects. This review article, therefore, covers the recent advances in the drug delivery of anti-inflammatory agents loaded with natural polyphenolics by the application of both organic and inorganic nanocarriers. Even though nanocarrier technology offers a variety of possible anti-inflammatory advantages to naturally occurring polyphenols, the complexes' inherent properties and mechanisms of action have not yet been fully investigated. Thus, expanding the quest on novel natural polyphenolic-loaded delivery systems, together with the optimization of complexes' activity toward inflammation, will be a new direction of future efforts.

Sustainable Biodegradable Biopolymer-Based Nanoparticles for Healthcare Applications

Biopolymeric nanoparticles are gaining importance as nanocarriers for various biomedical applications, enabling long-term and controlled release at the target site. Since they are promising delivery systems for various therapeutic agents and offer advantageous properties such as biodegradability, biocompatibility, non-toxicity, and stability compared to various toxic metal nanoparticles, we decided to provide an overview on this topic. Therefore, the review focuses on the use of biopolymeric nanoparticles of animal, plant, algal, fungal, and bacterial origin as a sustainable material for potential use as drug delivery systems. A particular focus is on the encapsulation of many different therapeutic agents categorized as bioactive compounds, drugs, antibiotics, and other antimicrobial agents, extracts, and essential oils into protein- and polysaccharide-based nanocarriers. These show promising benefits for human health, especially for successful antimicrobial and anticancer activity. The review article, divided into protein-based and polysaccharide-based biopolymeric nanoparticles and further according to the origin of the biopolymer, enables the reader to select the appropriate biopolymeric nanoparticles more easily for the incorporation of the desired component. The latest research results from the last five years in the field of the successful production of biopolymeric nanoparticles loaded with various therapeutic agents for healthcare applications are included in this review.

Improving shikonin solubility and stability by encapsulation in natural surfactant-coated shikonin nanoparticles

It is significant to develop a colloidal delivery system to improve the water solubility, stability, and bioavailability of shikonin, which is a hydrophobic plant polyphenol with a variety of physiological activities. In this study, three kinds of natural surfactants (saponin, sophorolipid, and rhamnolipid) were used to prepare shikonin nanoparticles by the pH-driven method. The physicochemical and structural properties of the shikonin nanoparticles were characterized, including particle size, zeta potential, and morphology. The encapsulation efficiencies of shikonin nanoparticles coated with saponin and sophorolipid were 97.6% and 97.3%, respectively, which were much higher than that of rhamnolipid-coated shikonin nanoparticles (19.0%). Shikonin nanoparticles coated with saponin and sophorolipid showed good resistance to heat and light and maintained long-term stability during storage. Moreover, shikonin nanoparticles coated with saponin and sophorolipid improved their in vitro-bioavailability. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: These article results are of great importance for improving the stability and bioavailability of shikonin in functional foods, dietary supplements, or pharmaceutical preparations. Moreover, this study provided theoretical and practical guides for further research of shikonin nanoparticles and may promote the development of natural colloidal delivery systems.

Bioactive-loaded nanodelivery systems for the feed and drugs of livestock; purposes, techniques and applications

Advances in animal husbandry and better performance of livestock results in growing demands for feed and its nutrients, bioactive compounds (bioactives), such as vitamins, minerals, proteins, and phenolics, along with drugs/vaccines. To protect the feed bioactives in unintended circumstances, they can be encapsulated to achieve desired efficacy in animal feeding and nanoencapsulation gives more potential for better protection, absorption and targeted delivery of bioactives. This study reviews structures, properties, and methods of nanoencapsulation for animal feedings and relevant drugs. Essential oil (EOs) and plant extracts are mostly encapsulated bioactives and phytochemicals for poultry diets and chitosan is found as most effective nanocarrier to load EOs and plant extracts. Nanoparticles (NPs) and nanocapsules are frequently studied nanocarriers, which are mostly processed by using the ionotropic/ionic gelation. Nanofibers, nanohydrogels and nanoemulsions are not found yet for their application in feed bioactives. These nanocarriers can have an improved protection, stability, and controlled release of feed bioactives which benefits to additional nutrition for the growth of livestock regardless of the low stability and water solubility of bioactives. For ruminants' feeds, nano-minerals, vitamins, phytochemicals, essential fatty acids, and drugs are encapsulated by NPs to facilitate the delivery to target organs through direct penetration, to improve their bioavailability, to generate more efficient absorption in cells and tissues, and protect them from rapid degradation. Furthermore, safety and regulatory issues, as well as advantages and disadvantages of nanoencapsulation application in animal feeds are also discussed. The review shows an accurate design of NPs can largely mask safety issues with straightforward approaches and awareness of safety concerns is fundamental for better designing of nanoencapsulation systems and commercialization. This review gives an insight of understanding and potential of nanoencapsulation in ruminants and poultry feedings to obtain a better bioavailability of the nutrients and bioactives with improved safety and awareness for better designing of nanoencapsulating systems.

Advancement of Protein- and Polysaccharide-Based Biopolymers for Anthocyanin Encapsulation

Although evidence shows that anthocyanins present promising health benefits, their poor stability still limits their applications in the food industry. Increasing the stability of anthocyanins is necessary to promote their absorption and metabolism and improve their health benefits. Numerous encapsulation approaches have been developed for the targeted release of anthocyanins to retain their bioactivities and ameliorate their unsatisfactory stability. Generally, choosing suitable edible encapsulation materials based on biopolymers is important in achieving the expected goals. This paper presented an ambitious task of summarizing the current understanding and challenges of biopolymer-based anthocyanin encapsulation in detail. The food-grade edible microencapsulation materials, especially for proteins and polysaccharides, should be employed to improve the stability of anthocyanins for effective application in the food industry. The influence factors involved in anthocyanin stability were systematically reviewed and highlighted. Food-grade proteins, especially whey protein, caseinate, gelatin, and soy protein, are attractive in the food industry for encapsulation owing to the improvement of stability and their health benefits. Polysaccharides, such as starch, pectin, chitosan, cellulose, mucilages, and their derivatives, are used as encapsulation materials because of their satisfactory biocompatibility and biodegradability. Moreover, the challenges and perspectives for the application of anthocyanins in food products were presented based on current knowledge. The proposed perspective can provide new insights into the amelioration of anthocyanin bioavailability by edible biopolymer encapsulation.

Emerging trends in nano-bioactive-mediated mitochondria-targeted therapeutic stratagems using polysaccharides, proteins and lipidic carriers

The emergence of new lifestyle disorders and pharmaco-resistant variants of diseases has necessitated the search for effective therapeutic moieties and approaches that could overcome the limitations in the existing treatment modalities. In this context, bioactives such as flavonoids, polyphenols, tannins, terpenoids and alkaloids have demonstrated promise in therapy owing to their ability to scavenge free radicals and modulate the mitochondrial function as well as regulate metabolic pathways. However, their clinical applicability is low owing to their poor bioavailability and aqueous solubility. The encapsulation of bioactives in nanodimensional particles has overcome these limitations to a large extent while simultaneously conferring additional advantages of improved circulation time, enhanced cell uptake and target specific release. A wide range of nanocarriers derived from biopolymers such as polysaccharides, lipids and proteins, have been explored for encapsulation of different bioactives and have reported significant improvement of the bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy of the encapsulated cargo. However, incorporation of cell-specific and mitochondria-specific elements on the nanocarriers has been relatively less explored. This review summarizes some of the recent attempts to treat different disorders using bioactives encapsulated in biopolymer nanostructures and few instances of mitochondria-specific delivery.