Production and characterization of vitamin D3 loaded starch nanoparticles: effect of amylose to amylopectin ratio and sonication parameters

Lignin nanoparticles from Ayurvedic industry spent materials: Applications in Pickering emulsions for curcumin and vitamin D3 encapsulation

Lignin nanoparticles (LNP), extracted from spent materials of Dashamoola Arishta (Ayurvedic formulation), shared a molecular weight of 14.42 kDa with commercial lignin. Processed into LNPs (496.43 ± 0.54 nm) via planetary ball milling, they demonstrated stability at pH 8.0 with a zeta potential of -32 ± 0.27 mV. Operating as Pickering particles, LNP encapsulated curcumin and vitamin D3 in sunflower oil, forming LnE + Cu + vD3 nanoemulsions (particle size: 347.40 ± 0.71 nm, zeta potential: -42.27 ± 0.72 mV) with high encapsulation efficiencies (curcumin: 87.95 ± 0.21%, vitamin D3: 72.66 ± 0.11%). The LnE + Cu + vD3 emulsion exhibited stability without phase separation over 90 days at room (27 ± 2 °C) and refrigeration (4 ± 1 °C) temperatures. Remarkably, LnE + Cu + vD3 exhibited reduced toxicity, causing 29.32% and 34.99% cell death in L6 and RAW264.7 cells respectively, at the highest concentration (50 μg/mL). This underscores the potential valorization of Ayurvedic industry spent materials for diverse industrial applications.

Optimizing ultrasonic parameters for development of vitamin D3-loaded gum arabic nanoemulsions - An approach for vitamin D3 fortification

Vitamin D encapsulation can significantly improve its bioavailability, stability, and solubility. Various biopolymers viz. whey protein isolate, carboxymethyl cellulose, alginate and gum arabic were studied for their potential to be used as wall material and gum arabic was selected for encapsulating vitamin D3 as it possesses lesser particle size, apparent viscosity and better stability in terms of zeta potential. Box Behnken design was employed for optimizing the process conditions for developing vitamin D3 nanoemulsion. Box Behnken design was constructed using ultrasonic amplitude, sonication time and vitamin D3/wall material percent as independent factors. The optimum conditions obtained were ultrasonic amplitude (80 %), sonication time (12 min) and vitamin D3/wall material percent (5). The designed nanoemulsion showed a particle size of 20.04 nm, zeta potential of -28.2 mV, and encapsulation efficiency of 71.9 %. Chemical interactions were observed in the developed nanoemulsion as demonstrated by Differential scanning calorimeter thermograms and Fourier transform infrared spectra of the nanoemulsion. The Korsmeyer-Peppas model was the most suitable for describing the release of vitamin D3 from the nanoemulsion. Fabricated nanoemulsion has the potential to be used in food and pharmaceutical industries.

Synthesis, optimization, and characterization of precipitation derived starch nanoparticles from guinea seeds

Guinea starch nanoparticles (GS-SNP) were developed using ultrasound and nanoprecipitation techniques. The physicochemical, thermal, structural, morphological, pasting, and rheological properties of GS-SNP were examined and compared with native starch. The particle size of GS-SNP was 391.50-206.00 nm, with a PDI of 0.35-0.23 and a zeta potential of -37.5 to -13 mV. The amylose content of GS-SNP increased with a decrease in relative crystallinity, and a VH-type crystalline structure was observed. The GS-SNP were in round shape with some self-aggregated granules. The water and oil absorption capacity, solubility, and gelatinization temperature of GS-SNP increased, but the swelling power was restricted. The viscosity of the GS-SNP dispersion remained almost constant throughout the heating but slightly increased after cooling. A higher degree of shear thinning was observed due to a fluid-like gel network and weak gel structure. The optimum conditions were: 50 % amplitude, 30 min time, and a starch to ethanol ratio (1:4) with 85 % maximum desirability. Overall, the findings suggest that GS-SNP have promising potential for application in a liquid system where viscosity of the system cannot be significantly influenced by temperature.

Preparation of the black rice starch-gallic acid complexes by ultrasound treatment: Physicochemical properties, multiscale structure, and in vitro digestibility

This study aimed to investigate the multiscale structure, physicochemical properties, and in vitro digestibility of black rice starch (BRS) and gallic acid (GA) complexes prepared using varying ultrasound powers. The findings revealed that ultrasonic treatment disrupted BRS granules while enhancing the composite degree with GA. The starch granules enlarged and aggregated into complexes with uneven surfaces. Moreover, the crystallinity of the BRS-GA complexes increased to 22.73 % and formed V6-I-type complexes through non-covalent bonds. The increased short-range ordering of the complexes and nuclear magnetic resonance hydrogen (1H NMR) further indicated that the BRS and GA molecules interacted mainly through non-covalent bonds such as hydrogen bonds. Additionally, ultrasound reduced the viscoelasticity of the complexes while minimizing the mass loss of the complexes at the same temperature. In vitro digestion results demonstrated an increase in resistant starch content up to 37.60 % for the BRS-GA complexes. Therefore, ultrasound contributes to the formation of V-typed complexes of BRS and GA, which proves the feasibility of using ultrasound alone for the preparation of starch and polyphenol complexes while providing a basis for the multiscale structure and digestibility of polyphenol and starch complexes.

Food gels: principles, interaction mechanisms and its microstructure

Food hydrogels are important materials having great scientific interest due to biocompatibility, safety and environment-friendly characteristics. In the food industry, hydrogels are widely used due to their three-dimensional crosslinked networks. Furthermore, they have attracted great attention due to their wide range of applications in the food industry, such as fat replacers, encapsulating agents, target delivery vehicles, and many more. In addition to basic and recent knowledge on food hydrogels, this review exclusively focuses on sensorial perceptions, nutritional significance, body interactions, network structures, mechanical properties, and potential hydrogel applications in food and food-based matrices. Additionally, this review highlights the structural design of hydrogels, which provide the forward-looking idea for future applications of food hydrogels (e.g., 3D or 4D printing).

Polysaccharides, proteins, and their complex as microencapsulation carriers for delivery of probiotics: A review on carrier types and encapsulation techniques

Probiotics provide several benefits for humans, including restoring the balance of gut bacteria, boosting the immune system, and aiding in the management of certain conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome and lactose intolerance. However, the viability of probiotics may undergo a significant reduction during food storage and gastrointestinal transit, potentially hindering the realization of their health benefits. Microencapsulation techniques have been recognized as an effective way to improve the stability of probiotics during processing and storage and allow for their localization and slow release in intestine. Although, numerous techniques have been employed for the encapsulation of probiotics, the encapsulation techniques itself and carrier types are the main factors affecting the encapsulate effect. This work summarizes the applications of commonly used polysaccharides (alginate, starch, and chitosan), proteins (whey protein isolate, soy protein isolate, and zein) and its complex as the probiotics encapsulation materials; evaluates the evolutions in microencapsulation technologies and coating materials for probiotics, discusses their benefits and limitations, and provides directions for future research to improve targeted release of beneficial additives as well as microencapsulation techniques. This study provides a comprehensive reference for current knowledge pertaining to microencapsulation in probiotics processing and suggestions for best practices gleaned from the literature.

Preparation of the starch-lipid complexes by ultrasound treatment: Exploring the interactions using molecular docking

In this work, Corn Starch (CS)-Lauric acid (LA) complexes prepared by different ultrasound times were explored for multi-scale structure and digestibility. The results showed that the average molecular weight of the CS decreased from 380.478 to 323.989 kDa and the transparency increased to 38.55 % after 30 min of ultrasound treatment. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) results revealed a rough surface and agglomeration of the prepared complexes. The complexing index of the CS-LA complexes increased by 14.03 % compared to the non-ultrasound group. The prepared CS-LA complexes formed a more ordered helical structure and a more dense V-shaped crystal structure through hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonding. In addition, fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy and the molecular docking revealed that the hydrogen bonds formed by CS and LA promoted the formation of an ordered structure of the polymer, retarding the diffusion of the enzyme and thus reducing the digestibility of the starch. With correlation analysis, we provided insight into the multi-scale structure-digestibility relationship in the CS-LA complexes, which provided a basis for the relationship between structure and digestibility of lipid-containing starchy foods.

Effect of Ultrasonication Parameters on the Structural, Morphological, and Electrical Properties of Polypyrrole Nanoparticles and Optimization by Response Surface Methodology

Polypyrrole (PPy) nanoparticles are reliable conducting polymers with many industrial applications. Nevertheless, owing to disadvantages in structure and morphology, producing PPy with high electrical conductivity is challenging. In this study, a chemical oxidative polymerization-assisted ultra-sonication method was used to synthesize PPy with high conductivity. The influence of critical sonication parameters such as time and power on the structure, morphology, and electrical properties was examined using response surface methodology. Various analyses such as SEM, FTIR, DSC, and TGA were performed on the PPy. An R² value of 0.8699 from the regression analysis suggested a fine correlation between the observed and predicted values of PPy conductivity. Using response surface plots and contour line diagrams, the optimum sonication time and sonication power were found to be 17 min and 24 W, respectively, generating a maximum conductivity of 2.334 S/cm. Meanwhile, the model predicted 2.249 S/cm conductivity, indicating successful alignment with the experimental data and incurring marginal error. SEM results demonstrated that the morphology of the particles was almost spherical, whereas the FTIR spectra indicated the presence of certain functional groups in the PPy. The obtained PPy with high conductivity can be a promising conducting material with various applications, such as in supercapacitors, sensors, and other smart electronic devices.

Starches in the encapsulation of plant active ingredients: state of the art and research trends

As a natural polymer, starches and their derivatives have received widespread attention in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries, particularly for their use as a coating material. In this sense, as an encapsulating agent, starches stand out, considering the number of compounds that they can trap. Additionally, they provide a nutritional contribution and may improve acceptance by patients. As such, this type of material may serve as an alternative to overcome gaps such as loss of activity of the active principles, low assimilation, or deterioration under environmental and physiological conditions. In this paper, we aim to present the state of the art and research trends on the use of starch as a wall material for the encapsulation of active principles of plant origin. It was found that the most-encapsulated active principles are essential oils and polyphenols; native or modified starches are typically used, either as the sole wall material or in combination with other polymers; and the most widely used methodology is spray drying. The reviewed studies indicate the potential of starches for their use in active ingredient encapsulation processes, improving their viability and expanding their range of applications in different industries, as well as showing a clearly increasing publication trend over the last 10 years.

Graphical abstract

Starch Nanoparticles: Preparation, Properties and Applications

Starch as a natural polymer is abundant and widely used in various industries around the world. In general, the preparation methods for starch nanoparticles (SNPs) can be classified into 'top-down' and 'bottom-up' methods. SNPs can be produced in smaller sizes and used to improve the functional properties of starch. Thus, they are considered for the various opportunities to improve the quality of product development with starch. This literature study presents information and reviews regarding SNPs, their general preparation methods, characteristics of the resulting SNPs and their applications, especially in food systems, such as Pickering emulsion, bioplastic filler, antimicrobial agent, fat replacer and encapsulating agent. The aspects related to the properties of SNPs and information on the extent of their utilisation are reviewed in this study. The findings can be utilised and encouraged by other researchers to develop and expand the applications of SNPs.

Fortification by design: A rational approach to designing vitamin D delivery systems for foods and beverages

Over the past few decades, vitamin D deficiency has been recognized as a serious global public health challenge. The World Health Organization has recommended fortification of foods with vitamin D, but this is often challenging because of its low water solubility, poor chemical stability, and low bioavailability. Studies have shown that these challenges can be overcome by encapsulating vitamin D within well-designed delivery systems containing nanoscale or microscale particles. The characteristics of these particles, such as their composition, size, structure, interfacial properties, and charge, can be controlled to attain desired functionality for specific applications. Recently, there has been great interest in the design, production, and application of vitamin-D loaded delivery systems. Many of the delivery systems reported in the literature are unsuitable for widespread application due to the complexity and high costs of the processing operations required to fabricate them, or because they are incompatible with food matrices. In this article, the concept of "fortification by design" is introduced, which involves a systematic approach to the design, production, and testing of colloidal delivery systems for the encapsulation and fortification of oil-soluble vitamins, using vitamin D as a model. Initially, the challenges associated with the incorporation of vitamin D into foods and beverages are reviewed. The fortification by design concept is then described, which involves several steps: (i) selection of appropriate vitamin D form; (ii) selection of appropriate food matrix; (iii) identification of appropriate delivery system; (iv) identification of appropriate production method; (vii) establishment of appropriate testing procedures; and (viii) system optimization.

Natural carriers: Recent advances in their use to improve the stability and bioaccessibility of food active compounds

In the last decades, the incorporation of bioactive compounds in food supplements aroused the attention of scientists. However, these ingredients often exhibit both low solubility and stability and their poor bioaccessibility within the gastrointestinal tract limits their effectiveness. To overcome these drawbacks, many carriers have been investigated for encapsulating nutraceuticals and enhancing their bioavailability. It is note that several different vegetable wall materials have been applied to build delivery systems. Considering their encapsulation mechanism, lipid and protein-based carriers display specific interaction patterns with bioactives, whereas polysaccharidic-based carriers can entrap them by creating porous highly stable networks. To maximize the encapsulation efficiency, mixed systems are very promising. Following the current goal of using natural and sustainable ingredients, only a limited number of studies about the isolation of new ingredients from agro-food waste are available. In this review, a comprehensive overview of the state of art in the development of innovative natural lipid-, protein- and polysaccharide-based plant carriers is presented, focusing on their application as food active compounds. Different aspects to be considered in the design of delivery systems are discussed, including the carrier structure and chemical features, the interaction between the encapsulating and the core material, and the parameters affecting bioactives entrapment.

Characterization of acid hydrolysis based nano-converted mung bean (Vigna radiata L.) starch for morphological, rheological and thermal properties

Mung bean starch nanocrystals (SNC) were fabricated using acid hydrolysis. The resulting nanocrystals were studied for their morphological, thermal, and rheological properties. Irregular or round-shaped nano-scale crystals with average hydrodynamic diameter of 179 nm obtained after acid hydrolysis. The mung bean SNC revealed a C_B-type crystalline pattern with enhanced crystallinity as studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD). Lower negative zeta potential was obtained for mung bean SNC as compared to its native starch. Thermal peaks disappeared for nanocrystals, which indicated an increased thermal instability of mung bean SNC. A shear-thinning behavior, even at high concentrations of SNC in the suspension was noticed. The elastic behavior was observed at all studied concentrations and it was independent of the frequency change.

Application of starch-based nanoparticles and cyclodextrin for prebiotics delivery and controlled glucose release in the human gut: a review

Starches are a major constituent of staple foods and are the main source of energy in the human diet (55-70%). In the gastrointestinal tract, starches are hydrolyzed into glucose by α-amylase and α-glucosidase, which leads to a postprandial glucose elevation. High levels of blood glucose levels over sustained periods may promote type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity. Increasing consumption of starchy foods with a lower glycemic index may therefore contribute to improved health. In this paper, the preparation and properties of several starch-based nanoparticles (SNPs) and cyclodextrins (CDs) derivatives are reviewed. In particular, we focus on the various mechanisms responsible for the ability of these edible nanomaterials to modulate glucose release and the gut microbiome in the gastrointestinal tract. The probiotic functions are achieved through encapsulation and protection of prebiotics or bioactive components in foods or the human gut. This review therefore provides valuable information that could be used to design functional foods for improving human health and wellbeing.

Sonoproduction of nanobiomaterials - A critical review

Ultrasound (US) demonstrates remarkable potential in synthesising nanomaterials, particularly nanobiomaterials targeted towards biomedical applications. This review briefly introduces existing top-down and bottom-up approaches for nanomaterials synthesis and their corresponding synthesis mechanisms, followed by the expounding of US-driven nanomaterials synthesis. Subsequently, the pros and cons of sono-nanotechnology and its advances in the synthesis of nanobiomaterials are drawn based on recent works. US-synthesised nanobiomaterials have improved properties and performance over conventional synthesis methods and most essentially eliminate the need for harsh and expensive chemicals. The sonoproduction of different classes and types of nanobiomaterials such as metal and superparamagnetic nanoparticles (NPs), lipid- and carbohydrate-based NPs, protein microspheres, microgels and other nanocomposites are broadly categorised based on the physical and/or chemical effects induced by US. This review ends on a good note and recognises US-driven synthesis as a pragmatic solution to satisfy the growing demand for nanobiomaterials, nonetheless some technical challenges are highlighted.

Starch Nanoparticles for Enhancement of Oral Bioavailability of a Newly Synthesized Thienopyrimidine Derivative with Anti-Proliferative Activity Against Pancreatic Cancer

Purpose

This research aimed to improve water solubility and oral bioavailability of a newly synthesized thienopyrimidine derivative (TPD) with anti-pancreatic cancer activity by loading on starch nanoparticles (SNPs).

Methods

TPD was synthesized, purified and its ADME behavior was predicted using Swiss ADME software. A UV spectroscopy method was developed and validated to measure TPD concentration at various dosage forms. SNPs loaded with TPD (SNPs-TPD) were prepared, characterized for particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), entrapment efficiency, in-vitro release, and in-vivo animal study.

Results

The Swiss ADME results showed that TPD can be administered orally; however, it has low oral bioavailability (0.55) and poor water solubility. The significant regression coefficient of the calibration curve (r² = 0.9995), the precision (%RSD < 0.5%) and the accuracy (99.46−101.72%) confirmed the efficacy of the developed UV method. SNPs-TPD had a spherical monodispersed (PDI= 0.12) shape, nanoparticle size (22.98 ± 4.23) and good stability (−21 ± 4.72 mV). Moreover, FT-IR and DSC revealed changes in the physicochemical structure of starch resulting in SNPs formation. The entrapment efficiency was 97% ± 0.45%, and the in-vitro release showed that the SNPs enhanced the solubility of the TPD. The in-vivo animal study and histopathology showed that SNPs enhanced the oral bioavailability of TPD against solid Ehrlich carcinoma.

Conclusion

SNPs-TPD were superior in drug solubility and oral bioavailability than those obtained from TPD suspension.

Innovative Delivery Systems Loaded with Plant Bioactive Ingredients: Formulation Approaches and Applications

Plants constitute a rich source of diverse classes of valuable phytochemicals (e.g., phenolic acids, flavonoids, carotenoids, alkaloids) with proven biological activity (e.g., antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, etc.). However, factors such as low stability, poor solubility and bioavailability limit their food, cosmetics and pharmaceutical applications. In this regard, a wide range of delivery systems have been developed to increase the stability of plant-derived bioactive compounds upon processing, storage or under gastrointestinal digestion conditions, to enhance their solubility, to mask undesirable flavors as well as to efficiently deliver them to the target tissues where they can exert their biological activity and promote human health. In the present review, the latest advances regarding the design of innovative delivery systems for pure plant bioactive compounds, extracts or essential oils, in order to overcome the above-mentioned challenges, are presented. Moreover, a broad spectrum of applications along with future trends are critically discussed.

Physicochemical properties and digestion mechanism of starch-linoleic acid complex induced by multi-frequency power ultrasound

The effects of multi-frequencies (mono: 20 kHz, 40 kHz, 60 kHz; dual: 20/40 kHz, 40/60 kHz, 20/60 kHz, and tri: 20/40/60 kHz) on physicochemical properties and in vitro digestibility of arrowhead starch-linoleic acid (AS-LA) complexes were evaluated. The complexing index and FTIR analyses showed that sonication treatment might be helpful in the formation of AS-LA complexes in an ultrasound frequency-dependent manner. The SEM micrographs revealed that the various ultrasonication frequencies caused dense network structure in AS-LA complexes. The XRD showed a V-type crystalline structure with increased crystallinity. Compared with arrowhead starch, a decrease in rapidly digestible starch , and an increase in resistant starch contents of AS-LA under various ultrasound frequencies was due to arrowhead starch and linoleic acid molecular interactions, which inhibited the further binding abilities. As a non-thermal technology, ultrasound could be effectively employed to prepare starch-lipid complexes with significant potential in functional foods and drug delivery systems.

Study of the Performance of Particles Based on Modified Starches Containing Potassium Sorbate and Incorporated into Biodegradable Films: Physicochemical Characterization and Antimicrobial Action

Ultrasound technique was used to produce native and acetylated cassava starch particles containing potassium sorbate (KS). In order to obtain an active packaging, films with addition of native starch particles containing KS (NKSPF) or added with acetylated starch particles containing KS (AKSPF) were formulated. As control systems, films without KS (CF) or added with KS that was not retained in particles (KSF), were produced. The NKSPF and AKSPF microstructure was consistent with composite materials. Tensile test revealed that CF and KSF were ductile and extensible (stress at break (σb) 2.8–2.5 MPa and strain at break (εb) 284–206%), while NKSPF and AKSPF were more resistant films with higher Young’s Modulus (148–477 MPa) and σb (3.6–17 MPa) but lower εb (40–11%). Moreover, NKSPF and AKSPF developed lower Yellowness Index (6.6–6.5) but higher opacity (19–23%) and solubility in water (31–35%) than KSF (9, 10.8% and 9%, respectively). It was observed that KSF and NKSPF moderately reduced the Zygosaccharomyces bailii growth while AKSPF showed the highest yeast inhibition, three Log-cycles, compared to CF. Additionally, FTIR spectroscopy revealed intensified interactions between KS and modified starch. It was concluded that starch sonication and acetylation were useful modifications to produce particles carrier of KS that improved the physical and antimicrobial performance of active films.

Surfactant-Free Stabilization of Aqueous Graphene Dispersions Using Starch as a Dispersing Agent

Attention to graphene dispersions in water with the aid of natural polymers is increasing with improved awareness of sustainability. However, the function of biopolymers that can act as dispersing agents in graphene dispersions is not well understood. In particular, the use of starch to disperse pristine graphene materials deserves further investigation. Here, we report the processing conditions of aqueous graphene dispersions using unmodified starch. We have found that the graphene content of the starch-graphene dispersion is dependent on the starch fraction. The starch-graphene sheets are few-layer graphene with a lateral size of 3.2 μm. Furthermore, topographical images of these starch-graphene sheets confirm the adsorption of starch nanoparticles with a height around 5 nm on the graphene surface. The adsorbed starch nanoparticles are ascribed to extend the storage time of the starch-graphene dispersion up to 1 month compared to spontaneous aggregation in a nonstabilized graphene dispersion without starch. Moreover, the ability to retain water by starch is reduced in the presence of graphene, likely due to environmental changes in the hydroxyl groups responsible for starch-water interactions. These findings demonstrate that starch can disperse graphene with a low oxygen content in water. The aqueous starch-graphene dispersion provides tremendous opportunities for environmental-friendly packaging applications.

Analytical validation of an ultraviolet-visible procedure for determining vitamin D3 in vitamin D3-loaded microparticles and toxigenetic studies for incorporation into food

Vitamin D is a water-insoluble compound presented in two main forms (D₂ and D₃), susceptible to environmental conditions. Microencapsulation is an alternative to supplements and preserve vitamin D properties in foods. Entrapment efficiency (EE) is the main property to evaluate the encapsulation effectiveness and therefore it is of interest the study of analytical methods for the identification and quantification of this compound within the particle. This paper describes a low cost UV-Vis methodology validation to the identification and quantification of vitamin D₃ in microparticles produced by hot homogenization. The method was validated following the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) guidelines. To guarantee safe application in foodstuff, microparticles toxigenicity was evaluated with Allium cepa L. in vivo model, showing no cytotoxic nor genotoxic potential. High entrapment efficiency was obtained, the results also demonstrated that the concentration of vitamin D₃ in microparticles can be safely accessed by the validated method.

Transcriptome analysis of genes involved in starch biosynthesis in developing Chinese chestnut (Castanea mollissima Blume) seed kernels

Chinese chestnut (Castanea mollissima Blume) seed kernels (CCSK) with high quality and quantity of starch has emerged as a potential raw material for food industry, but the molecular regulatory mechanism of starch accumulation in developing CCSK is still unclear. In this study, we firstly analyzed the fruit development, starch accumulation, and microscopic observation of dynamic accumulation of starch granules of developing CCSK from 10 days after flowering (DAF) to 100 DAF, of which six representative CCSK samples (50–100 DAF) were selected for transcriptome sequencing analysis. Approximately 40 million valid reads were obtained, with an average length of 124.95 bp, which were searched against a reference genome, returning 38,146 unigenes (mean size = 1164.19 bp). Using the DESeq method, 1968, 1573, 1187, 1274, and 1494 differentially expressed unigenes were identified at 60:50, 70:60, 80:70, 90:80 and 100:90 DAF, respectively. The relationship between the unigene transcriptional profiles and starch dynamic patterns in developing CCSK was comparatively analyzed, and the specific unigenes encoding for metabolic enzymes (SUSY2, PGM, PGI, GPT, NTT, AGP3, AGP2, GBSS1, SS1, SBE1, SBE2.1, SBE2.2, ISA1, ISA2, ISA3, and PHO) were characterized to be involved potentially in the biosynthesis of G-1-P, ADPG, and starch. Finally, the temporal transcript profiles of genes encoding key enzymes (susy2, pgi2, gpt1, agp2, agp3, gbss1, ss1, sbe1, sbe2.1, sbe2.2, isa1, isa2, isa3, and pho) were validated by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Our findings could help to reveal the molecular regulatory mechanism of starch accumulation in developing CCSK and may also provide potential candidate genes for increasing starch content in Chinese chestnut or other starchy crops.

The preparation of modified nano-starch and its application in food industry

Starch, which is a carbohydrate polymer with a semicrystalline granular structure, has been the subject of academic research for decades due to its renewable and biodegradable property as well as various applications in food, pharmaceutical and other industries. Nano-starch (NS) is a novel type of starch material with unique physiochemical properties due to its small size. However, the nano-size nature of NS determines its tendency to agglomeration as a natural process to approach a thermodynamically steady state, and the single hydroxyl functional group is also not favorable to its applications in hydrophobic environments. Thus, modified-NS with improved dispersion property, hydrophobicity, and stability is emerging as a new research direction. However, information about modified-NS is sporadic in literature, and a systematic review from its preparation, application, the problem and challenge as well as related health concerns is carried out to further the understanding of modified-NS. It is expected that the theoretical basis and new insight into the development of modified-NS will be improved.

Encapsulation of rutin using quinoa and maize starch nanoparticles

Rutin is a polyphenol with excellent therapeutic potential and good safety profile, but the poor bioavailability restricts its application as a functional ingredient. However, this limitation may be mitigated by encapsulation. In this study, promising prospects of starch nanoparticles (SNPs) produced via ultra-sonication for rutin encapsulation was explored.The rutin encapsulated SNPs prepared from quinoa and maize starch (QR and MR) showed average particle sizes of 107 and 222 nm, encapsulation efficiency (EE) and loading efficiency (LE) values of 67.4 and 63.1%, 26.6 and 22.7%, zeta potential of - 18.0 and - 18.6 mv, respectively. Structural, physical and thermal properties were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Simulated in vitro digestion showed increased rutin bioavailability with significantly higher (p < 0.05) in vitro antioxidant activities in QR than MR. Overall, SNPs prepared using ultrasound have potential to encapsulate polyphenols for improved bioavailability.

Recent nano-, micro- and macrotechnological applications of ultrasonication in food-based systems

There is a neoteric and rising demand for nutritional and functional foods which behooves food processors to adopt processing techniques with optimal conservation of bioactive components in foods and with minimal pernicious impacts on the environment. Ultrasonication, a mechanochemical technique has proven to be an efficacious panacea to these concerns. In this review, an analytic exploration of recent researches and designs regarding ultrasound methodology and equipment on diverse food systems, technological scales, procedural parameters and outcomes of such experimentations optimally scrutinized. The relative effects of ultrasonication on food formulations, components and attributes such as nanoemulsions, nanocapsules, proteins, micronutrients, sensory and mechanical characteristics are evaluatively delineated. In food systems where ultrasonication was employed, it was found to have a remarkable effect on one or more quality parameters. This review is a supplementation to the pedagogical awareness to scholars on the suitability of ultrasonication for research procedures, and a call to industrial food brands on the adoption of this technique for the development of foods with optimally sustained nutrient profiles.

Production and characterization of starch nanoparticles by mild alkali hydrolysis and ultra-sonication process

In this report, synthesis of the starch nanoparticles from underutilized and cheap sources viz: Horse chestnut (HS), Water chestnut (WS) and Lotus stem (LS) by using mild alkali hydrolysis and ultra-sonication process has been presented. The particles were characterized by Differential scanning colorimeter (DSC), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Rheology, Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infra-spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR). The particle size measurements, functional properties and antioxidant potential of starch nanoparticles were also analyzed. The experimental results revealed that the average particle size diameter of Horse chestnut starch nanoparticles (HSP), Water chestnut starch nanoparticles (WSP) and Lotus stem starch nanoparticles (LSP) was found to be 420, 606 and 535 nm, respectively. We observed a notable increase in the water absorption capacity but decreased capacity for oil absorption in the starch nano-particles. SEM images revealed damaged starch granules after size reduction. Additionally, loss of crystallinity and molecular order was observed from XRD and ATR-FTIR spectra. It was concluded that the starch nanoparticles have better thermal stability, increased viscosity and antioxidant properties.

Vitamin D microencapsulation and fortification: Trends and technologies

Today, as per the latest medical reports available, majority of the population throughout globe is facing vitamin D (Vit D) deficiency. Even in sub-tropical countries like India and many others Vit D deficiency is highly prevalent despite the exuberant available sunshine (a major source of Vit D) throughtout the year. The reason could be attributed to an array of factors including socioeconomical, cultural and religious. Further, other than the sunlight, there are very limited sources of Vit D to fulfil the recommended dietary allowance of Vit D (RDA: 400-800 IU per day). A large proportion of Vit D is lost during food processing and storage due to environmental stress conditions such as temperature, pH, salt, oxygen and light. Vita D, an important micronutrient, is essentially required for the prevention of disorders such as neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular diseases, cancer etc. in addition to its traditional role in bone metabolism. Therefore, in order to meet the daily requirements of Vit D for human body, WHO has recognized fortification as the most efficient and safest method to address malnutrition. But there are innumerable chellenges involved during food fortification using Vit D as fortificants such as homogeneity into the food matrix, physico-chemical/photochemical degradation, loss during processing and storage, interactions with other components of food matrix resulting into change in taste, texture and appearance thus affecting acceptability, palatability and marketability. Fortification of Vit D into food products especially the ones which have an aqueous portion, is not simple for food technologist. Recent advances in nanotechnology offer various microencapsulation techniques such as liposome, solid-lipid particles, nanostructured lipid carriers, emulsion, spray drying etc. which have been used to design efficient nanomaterials with desired functionality and have great potential for fortification of fortificants like Vit D. The present review is an undate on Vit D, in light of its fortification level, RDA, factors affecting its bioavailability and various microencapsulation techniques adopted to develop Vit D-nanomaterials and their fate in food fortification.

Citric-acid modified banana starch nanoparticles as a novel vehicle for β-carotene delivery

BACKGROUND

Starch nanoparticles have become among the most interesting nanovehicles for drug delivery because of their relatively easy synthesis, biocompatibility, and numerous botanical sources. Starch nanoparticles obtained from green bananas were cross-linked with citric acid and loaded with β-carotene.

RESULTS

Mean particle size, encapsulation efficiency, and β-carotene release in simulated gastric and intestinal fluids and food simulants were studied. Cross-linked nanoparticles showed higher loading efficiency and encapsulation capacity, indicating that they can accommodate more molecules than their unmodified counterparts, while mathematical models showed a diffusion of released β-carotene into food simulant media.

CONCLUSIONS

Cross-linked nanoparticles showed more controlled release under gastric conditions, mainly in the simulated intestinal fluid, indicating that they are suitable as vehicles for intestine-specific targeting. This controlled released was also observed in food simulants, with lower release values in the more aqueous simulants. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.

Potential of Nanomaterial Applications in Dietary Supplements and Foods for Special Medical Purposes

Dietary supplements and foods for special medical purposes are special medical products classified according to the legal basis. They are regulated, for example, by the European Food Safety Authority and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, as well as by various national regulations issued most frequently by the Ministry of Health and/or the Ministry of Agriculture of particular countries around the world. They constitute a concentrated source of vitamins, minerals, polyunsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants or other compounds with a nutritional or physiological effect contained in the food/feed, alone or in combination, intended for direct consumption in small measured amounts. As nanotechnology provides "a new dimension" accompanied with new or modified properties conferred to many current materials, it is widely used for the production of a new generation of drug formulations, and it is also used in the food industry and even in various types of nutritional supplements. These nanoformulations of supplements are being prepared especially with the purpose to improve bioavailability, protect active ingredients against degradation, or reduce side effects. This contribution comprehensively summarizes the current state of the research focused on nanoformulated human and veterinary dietary supplements, nutraceuticals, and functional foods for special medical purposes, their particular applications in various food products and drinks as well as the most important related guidelines, regulations and directives.

Stabilization of Vitamin D in Pea Protein Isolate Nanoemulsions Increases Its Bioefficacy in Rats

Micronutrient delivery formulations based on nanoemulsions can enhance the absorption of nutrients and bioactives, and thus, are of great potential for food fortification and supplementation strategies. The aim was to evaluate the bioefficacy of vitamin D (VitD) encapsulated in nanoemulsions developed by sonication and pH-shifting of pea protein isolate (PPI) in restoring VitD status in VitD-deficient rats. Weaned male albino rats (n = 35) were fed either normal diet AIN-93G (VitD 1000 IU/kg) (control group; n = 7) or a VitD-deficient diet (<50 IU/kg) for six weeks (VitD-deficient group; n = 28). VitD-deficient rats were divided into four subgroups (n = 7/group). Nano-VitD and Oil-VitD groups received a dose of VitD (81 µg) dispersed in either PPI-nanoemulsions or in canola oil, respectively, every other day for one week. Their control groups, Nano-control and Oil-control, received the respective delivery vehicles without VitD. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)VitD], parathyroid hormone (PTH), Ca, P, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity were measured. After one week of treatment, the VitD-deficient rats consuming Nano-VitD recovered from Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) as compared against baseline and had serum 25(OH)VitD higher than the Nano-control. Enhancement in VitD status was followed with expected changes in serum PTH, Ca, P, and ALP levels, as compared against the controls. Stabilization of VitD within PPI-based nanoemulsions enhances its absorption and restores its status and biomarkers of bone resorption in VitD-deficient rats.