Lysophosphatidylcholine-based liposome to improve oral absorption and nephroprotective effects of astaxanthin

Preparation and characterization of astaxanthin-loaded liposomes by phytosterol oleate instead of cholesterol

Hydrophobic bioactive compounds like astaxanthin (AST) exhibit poor water solubility and low bioavailability. Liposomes, which serve as nanocarriers, are known for their excellent biocompatibility and minimal immunogenicity. Traditionally, liposomes have been primarily constructed using phospholipids and cholesterol. However, the intake of cholesterol may pose a risk to human health. Phytosterol ester was reported to reduce level of cholesterol and improve properties of liposomes. In this study, phytosterol oleate was used to prepare liposomes instead of cholesterol to deliver AST (AST-P-Lip). The size range of AST-P-Lip was 100-220 nm, and the morphology was complete and uniform. In vitro studies showed that AST-P-Lip significantly enhanced the antioxidant activity and oral bioavailability of AST. During simulated digestion, AST-P-Lip protected AST from damage by gastric and intestinal digestive fluid. Additionally, AST-P-Lip had a good storage stability and safety. These results provide references for the preparation of novel liposomes and the delivery of bioactive compounds.

Preparation, characterisation, and pharmacodynamic study of myricetin pH-sensitive liposomes

AIMS

Myricetin (MYR) was incorporated into pH-sensitive liposomes in order to improve its bioavailability and anti-hyperuricemic activity.

METHODS

The MYR pH-sensitive liposomes (MYR liposomes) were prepared using thin film dispersion method, and assessed by particle size (PS), polydispersed index (PDI), zeta potential (ZP), encapsulation efficiency, drug loading, and in vitro release rate. Pharmacokinetics and anti-hyperuricemic activities were also evaluated.

RESULTS

The PS, PDI, ZP, encapsulation efficiency, and drug loading of MYR liposomes were 184.34 ± 1.05 nm, 0.215 ± 0.005, -38.46 ± 0.30 mV, 83.42 ± 1.07%w/w, and 6.20 ± 0.31%w/w, respectively. The release rate of MYR liposomes was higher than free MYR, wherein the cumulative value responded to pH. Besides, the Cmax of MYR liposomes was 4.92 ± 0.20 μg/mL. The level of uric acid in the M-L-H group (200 mg/kg) was reduced by 54.74%w/v in comparison with the model group.

CONCLUSION

MYR liposomes exhibited pH sensitivity and could potentially enhance the oral bioavailability and anti-hyperuricemic efficacy of MYR.

Marine Fish-Derived Lysophosphatidylcholine: Properties, Extraction, Quantification, and Brain Health Application

Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids esterified in lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC-omega-3) are the most bioavailable omega-3 fatty acid form and are considered important for brain health. Lysophosphatidylcholine is a hydrolyzed phospholipid that is generated from the action of either phospholipase PLA1 or PLA2. There are two types of LPC; 1-LPC (where the omega-3 fatty acid at the sn-2 position is acylated) and 2-LPC (where the omega-3 fatty acid at the sn-1 position is acylated). The 2-LPC type is more highly bioavailable to the brain than the 1-LPC type. Given the biological and health aspects of LPC types, it is important to understand the structure, properties, extraction, quantification, functional role, and effect of the processing of LPC. This review examines various aspects involved in the extraction, characterization, and quantification of LPC. Further, the effects of processing methods on LPC and the potential biological roles of LPC in health and wellbeing are discussed. DHA-rich-LysoPLs, including LPC, can be enzymatically produced using lipases and phospholipases from wide microbial strains, and the highest yields were obtained by Lipozyme RM-IM®, Lipozyme TL-IM®, and Novozym 435®. Terrestrial-based phospholipids generally contain lower levels of long-chain omega-3 PUFAs, and therefore, they are considered less effective in providing the same health benefits as marine-based LPC. Processing (e.g., thermal, fermentation, and freezing) reduces the PL in fish. LPC containing omega-3 PUFA, mainly DHA (C22:6 omega-3) and eicosapentaenoic acid EPA (C20:5 omega-3) play important role in brain development and neuronal cell growth. Additionally, they have been implicated in supporting treatment programs for depression and Alzheimer’s. These activities appear to be facilitated by the acute function of a major facilitator superfamily domain-containing protein 2 (Mfsd2a), expressed in BBB endothelium, as a chief transporter for LPC-DHA uptake to the brain. LPC-based delivery systems also provide the opportunity to improve the properties of some bioactive compounds during storage and absorption. Overall, LPCs have great potential for improving brain health, but their safety and potentially negative effects should also be taken into consideration.