Chitosan/fucoidan multilayer nanocapsules as a vehicle for controlled release of bioactive compounds

Encapsulation of lemongrass essential oil by bilayer liposomes based on pectin, gum Arabic, and carrageenan: Characterization and application in chicken meat preservation

The volatile characteristics of lemongrass essential oil (LO) have seriously hindered its further application, and encapsulation it with multilayer modified liposomes may be an effective strategy to improve this dilemma. This study selected chitosan (CH) and three anionic polymers, pectin (P) / gum arabic (GA) / carrageenan (C), as the first and second coating polymers to modify nano liposomes (NL) by layer-by-layer electrostatic deposition, obtaining three bilayer liposomes, P-CH-NL, GA-CH-NL, and C-CH-NL as high-quality stabilized carriers of LO. The bilayer liposomes showed a dense membrane structure ranging from 110 to 150 nm uniformly, with good antioxidant properties. All bilayer liposomes had good stability during 28-day storage at 4 °C, while C-CH-NL performed relatively better inferred by smaller changes of size, PDI and Zeta potential. The total volatile base nitrogen (TVB-N) values of fresh chicken meat and a total number of bacterial colonies (TBC) experiments showed that GA-CH-NL and C-CH-NL could better retard the increase of volatile salt base nitrogen. All bilayer liposomes could delay the time for the total bacterial count to exceed 6 log CFU/g (from 7 days to 10 / 12 days). Therefore, the bilayer liposomes P-CH-NL, GA-CH-NL, and C-CH-NL may be promising natural preservatives for food products.

Stabilization of zein nanoparticles with tween-80 and fucoidan for encapsulation of eugenol via a nozzle simulation chip

Eugenol (EU), a natural bioactive compound found in various plants, offers numerous health benefits, but its application in the food and pharmaceutical industry is limited by its high volatility, instability, and low water solubility. Therefore, this study aimed to utilize the surface coating technique to develop zein-tween-80-fucoidan (Z-T-FD) composite nanoparticles for encapsulating eugenol using a nozzle simulation chip. The physicochemical characteristics of the composite nanoparticles were examined by varying the weight ratios of Z, T, and FD. Results showed that the Z-T-FD weight ratio of 5:1:15 exhibited excellent colloidal stability under a range of conditions, including pH (2-8), salt concentrations (10-500 mmol/L), heating (80 °C), and storage (30 days). Encapsulation of EU into Z-T-FD nanoparticles (0.5:5:1:15) resulted in an encapsulation efficiency of 49.29 ± 1.00%, loading capacity of 0.46 ± 0.05%, particle size of 205.01 ± 3.25 nm, PDI of 0.179 ± 0.006, and zeta-potential of 37.12 ± 1.87 mV. Spherical structures were formed through hydrophobic interaction and hydrogen bonding, as confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and molecular docking. Furthermore, the EU-Z-T-FD (0.5:5:1:15) nanoparticles displayed higher in vitro antioxidant properties (with DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging properties at 75.28 ± 0.16% and 39.13 ± 1.22%, respectively), in vitro bioaccessibility (64.78 ± 1.37%), and retention rates under thermal and storage conditions for EU compared to other formulations. These findings demonstrate that the Z-T-FD nanoparticle system can effectively encapsulate, protect, and deliver eugenol, making it a promising option for applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Comparative Bioactivities of Chemically Modified Fucoidan and λ-Carrageenan toward Cells Encapsulated in Covalently Cross-Linked Hydrogels

The sulfated marine polysaccharides, fucoidan and λ-carrageenan, are known to possess anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and cellular protective properties. Although they hold considerable promise for tissue engineering constructs, their covalent cross-linking in hydrogels and comparative bioactivities to cells are absent from the literature. Thus, fucoidan and λ-carrageenan were modified with methacrylate groups and were covalently cross-linked with the synthetic polymer poly(vinyl alcohol)-methacrylate (PVA-MA) to form 20 wt % biosynthetic hydrogels. Identical degrees of methacrylation were confirmed by 1H NMR, and covalent conjugation was determined by using a colorimetric 1,9-dimethyl-methylene blue (DMMB) assay. Pancreatic beta cells were encapsulated in the hydrogels, followed by culturing in the 3D environment for a prolonged period of 32 days and evaluation of the cellular functionality by live/dead, adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) level, and insulin secretion. The results confirmed that fucoidan and λ-carrageenan exhibited ∼12% methacrylate substitution, which generated hydrogels with stable conjugation of the polysaccharides with PVA-MA. The cells encapsulated in the PVA-fucoidan hydrogels demonstrated consistently high ATP levels over the culture period. Furthermore, only cells in the PVA-fucoidan hydrogels retained glucose responsiveness, demonstrating comparatively higher insulin secretion in response to glucose. In contrast, cells in the PVA-λ-carrageenan and the PVA control hydrogels lost all glucose responsiveness. The present work confirms the superior effects of chemically modified fucoidan over λ-carrageenan on pancreatic beta cell survival and function in covalently cross-linked hydrogels, thereby illustrating the importance of differential polysaccharide structural features on their biological effects.

Carboxymethyl Chitosan-Coated Cyanidin-3-O-Glucoside-Beared Nanonutriosomes Suppress Palmitic Acid-Induced Hepatocytes Injury

Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G) is classified as an anthocyanin (ACN) and is recognized for its remarkable antioxidant properties. Yet, the inadequate physicochemical stability of C3G restricts its potential for various biological applications. Thus, in this study, carboxymethyl chitosan (CMC)-coated nanonutriosomes (NS) were synthesized as a novel carrier for encapsulating C3G (CMC-C3G-NS) to improve C3G stability. CMC-C3G-NS exhibited a diameter of less than 200 nm along with an encouraging encapsulation efficiency exceeding 90%. Notably, the formulated CMC-C3G-NS possessed better stability under various pH, ionic, and oxygen conditions, improved controlled release properties, and higher hepatocellular uptake than uncoated particles (C3G-NS), indicating a longer retention time of C3G in a physiological environment. Of utmost significance, CMC-C3G-NS demonstrated superior alleviating effects against palmitic acid (PA)-induced oxidative hepatic damage compared to C3G-NS. Our study provided promising nanocarriers with the potential to deliver hydrophilic ACNs and controlled release properties for PA-induced hepatotoxicity alleviation.

Design and In Vitro Activity of Furcellaran/Chitosan Multilayer Microcapsules for the Delivery of Glutathione and Empty Model Multilayer Microcapsules Based on Polysaccharides

In this study, multilayer microcapsules (two-layer and four-layer) based on furcellaran (FUR) and chitosan (CHIT) were produced, enclosing a tripeptide with an antioxidant effect-glutathione-in different concentrations. In addition, for the first time, an empty, four-layer microcapsule based on CHIT and FUR (ECAPS) was obtained, which can be used to contain sensitive, active substances of a hydrophobic nature. Layering was monitored using zeta potential, and the presence of the resulting capsules was confirmed by SEM imaging. In the current study, we also investigated whether the studied capsules had any effect on the Hep G2 cancer cell line. An attempt was also made to identify the possible molecular mechanism(s) by which the examined capsules suppressed the growth of Hep G2 cells. In this report, we demonstrate that the capsules suppressed the growth of cancer cells. This mechanism was linked to the modulation of the AKT/PI3K signaling pathway and the induction of the G2/M arrest cell cycle. Furthermore, the results indicate that the tested multilayer microcapsules induced cell death through an apoptotic pathway.

Green synthesis of nanolipo-fibersomes using Nutriose® FB 06 for delphinidin-3-O-sambubioside delivery: Characterization, physicochemical properties, and application

Anthocyanins are potential bioactive compounds with less bioavailability due to instability in physicochemical and physiological harsh environments. This study synthesized a "nanolipo-fibersomes (NLFS)" using Lipoid® S75 and Nutriose® FB 06 (dextrinization of wheat starch) through a self-assembly technique with probe sonication. We aimed to encapsulate delphinidin-3-O-sambubioside (D3S) successfully and evaluate physicochemical and controlled release properties with improved antioxidant activity on palmitic acid (PA)-induced colonic cells (Caco-2 cells). D3S-loaded nanolipo-fibersomes (D3S-NLFS) were nanosized (<150 nm), spherical shaped, and homogenously dispersed in solution with promising encapsulation efficiency (~ 89.31 to 97.31 %). Particles formation was further verified by FTIR. NLFS were well-stable in thermal, storage, and gastrointestinal mimic environments. NLFS exhibited better-controlled release and mucoadhesive properties compared to nanoliposomes (NL). The NLFS showed better cellular uptake than NL, which was correlated to higher mucoadhesive properties. Furthermore, D3S-NLFS exhibited promising protective effects against PA-induced cytotoxicity, O2•- radicals generation, mitochondrial dysfunctions, and GSH depletion, while the free D3S was ineffective. Among D3S-loaded nanoparticles, D3S-NLFS 3 was the most efficient nanocarrier followed by D3S-NLFS 2, D3S-NLFS 1, and D3S-NL, respectively. The above data suggest that nanolipo-fibersomes can be considered as promising nanovesicles for improving colonic delivery of hydrophilic compounds with controlled release properties and greater antioxidant activity.

Chitosan Hydrogel as Tissue Engineering Scaffolds for Vascular Regeneration Applications

Chitosan hydrogels have a wide range of applications in tissue engineering scaffolds, mainly due to the advantages of their chemical and physical properties. This review focuses on the application of chitosan hydrogels in tissue engineering scaffolds for vascular regeneration. We have mainly introduced these following aspects: advantages and progress of chitosan hydrogels in vascular regeneration hydrogels and the modification of chitosan hydrogels to improve the application in vascular regeneration. Finally, this paper discusses the prospects of chitosan hydrogels for vascular regeneration.

A chitosan/fucoidan nanoparticle-loaded pullulan microneedle patch for differential drug release to promote wound healing

Wound healing is a largely unmet medical issue in trauma, burn, and diabetes. In this study, a pullulan-based and nanoparticle-loaded smart microneedle patch is designed to release drugs differentially based on the needs of wound healing. Chitosan and fucoidan are first used to prepare moxifloxacin (MOX)-loaded nanoparticles (MOXNPs) with a diameter of 258.0 ± 10.86 nm, PDI 0.19 ± 0.06, and surface charge 45.1 ± 3.9 mV. MOXNPs, lidocaine (LH), and thrombin (TH) are then incorporated to a 30 % (w/w) pullulan-based microneedle patch (TH + LH + MOXNPs@MN). TH + LH + MOXNPs@MN possesses uniform and cone-shaped microneedles with a length of 725 μm, demonstrating good biocompatibility, sufficient strength for skin penetration, fast skin dissolution within 55 ± 5 min, rapid release of TH and LH within 1 h, and sustained release of MOX for 24 h. TH + LH + MOXNPs@MN heals mice skin wounds completely within 7 days and restores collagen deposition with accelerated cell proliferation, granulation, and reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines. In conclusion, this study utilizes combined polysaccharides to develop a smart multifunctional microneedle platform that achieves rapid hemostasis/analgesia and sustained bactericidal action. The smart and combined therapy is a potential strategy for high-quality wound healing.

Seaweed-Derived Sulfated Polysaccharides; The New Age Chemopreventives: A Comprehensive Review

Seaweed-derived bioactive compounds are regularly employed to treat human diseases. Sulfated polysaccharides are potent chemotherapeutic or chemopreventive medications since it has been discovered. They have exhibited anti-cancer properties by enhancing immunity and driving apoptosis. Through dynamic modulation of critical intracellular signalling pathways, such as control of ROS generation and preservation of essential cell survival and death processes, sulfated polysaccharides' antioxidant and immunomodulatory potentials contribute to their disease-preventive effectiveness. Sulfated polysaccharides provide low cytotoxicity and good efficacy therapeutic outcomes via dynamic modulation of apoptosis in cancer. Understanding how sulfated polysaccharides affect human cancer cells and their molecular involvement in cell death pathways will showcase a new way of chemoprevention. In this review, the significance of apoptosis and autophagy-modulating sulfated polysaccharides has been emphasized, as well as the future direction of enhanced nano-formulation for greater clinical efficacy. Moreover, this review focuses on the recent findings about the possible mechanisms of chemotherapeutic use of sulfated polysaccharides, their potential as anti-cancer drugs, and proposed mechanisms of action to drive apoptosis in diverse malignancies. Because of their unique physicochemical and biological properties, sulfated polysaccharides are ideal for their bioactive ingredients, which can improve function and application in disease. However, there is a gap in the literature regarding the physicochemical properties and functionalities of sulfated polysaccharides and the use of sulfated polysaccharide-based delivery systems in functional cancer. Furthermore, the preclinical and clinical trials will reveal the drug's efficacy in cancer.

pH/ROS Dual-Sensitive Natural Polysaccharide Nanoparticles Enhance "One Stone Four Birds" Effect of Rhein on Ulcerative Colitis

Rhein (RH), a natural anthraquinone compound, is considered an effective treatment candidate for ulcerative colitis (UC), whose multiple biological activities contribute to UC, including anti-inflammation, antioxidation, intestinal barrier repair, and microflora regulation. However, the application of RH is severely limited by its low water solubility, low bioavailability, and poor colonic targeting. Although some nanoparticles have been developed for the oral delivery of RH, most of them mainly highlighted only one effect of some drug delivery strategies but the above multiple biological activities. Therefore, a multiple polysaccharide-based nanodelivery system, comprising chitosan (CS) and fucoidan (FU), with pH/reactive oxygen species (ROS) sensitivity and mucosal adhesion, was developed and first used to load RH as a comprehensive treatment for UC. Briefly, RH-F/C-NPs were prepared using the polyelectrolyte self-assembly method; the average size of RH-F/C-NPs was 233.1 ± 5.7 nm, and the encapsulation rate of RH was 93.67 ± 1.60%. And it could maintain gastric stability and release RH in the colon with the designed pH/ROS sensitivity contributed by the polysaccharide-based structures. Cellular uptake experiments showed that both NCM 460 cells and RAW 264.7 cells had a good uptake of RH-F/C-NPs. Importantly, the effects of RH were highlighted in in vivo experiments, the results of which showed that RH-F/C-NPs could significantly reduce DSS-induced inflammation by inhibiting the TLR4/NF-κB-mediated anti-inflammatory pathway, the Nrf2/HO-1-mediated antioxidant pathway, colonic mucosal barrier repair, and intestinal microflora regulation. In addition, pharmacokinetic studies have shown that F/C-NPs contribute to the increase in the plasma concentration and the accumulation of RH in the colon to some extent. In short, this study is the first to develop an oral multiple polysaccharide-based nanosystem with pH/ROS dual sensitivity to study the "one stone four birds" therapeutic effect of RH on UC.

Alginate Particles for Encapsulation of Phenolic Extract from Spirulina sp. LEB-18: Physicochemical Characterization and Assessment of In Vitro Gastrointestinal Behavior

Encapsulation can be used as a strategy to protect and control the release of bioactive extracts. In this work, an extract from Spirulina sp. LEB-18, rich in phenolic compounds, was encapsulated in biopolymeric particles (i.e., composed of alginate) and characterized concerning their thermal behavior using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), size, morphology, swelling index (S), and encapsulation efficiency (EE%); the release profile of the phenolic compounds at different pHs and the particle behavior under in vitro gastrointestinal digestion were also evaluated. It was shown that it is possible to encapsulate the phenolic extract from Spirulina sp. LEB-18 in alginate particles with high encapsulation efficiency (88.97%). It was also observed that the particles are amorphous and that the encapsulated phenolic compounds were released at a pH 7.2 but not at pH 1.5, which means that the alginate particles are able to protect the phenolic compounds from the harsh stomach conditions but lose their integrity under intestinal pH conditions. Regarding bioaccessibility, it was observed that the encapsulated phenolic compounds showed higher bioaccessibility compared to phenolic compounds in free form. This work increases the knowledge about the behavior of alginate particles encapsulating phenolic compounds during in vitro gastrointestinal digestion. It also provides essential information for designing biopolymeric particle formulations encapsulating phenolic compounds for application in pharmaceutical and food products.

Effect of Citric Acid Cross Linking on the Mechanical, Rheological and Barrier Properties of Chitosan

In this study, acetic acid (AA-2% w/v), a combination of acetic acid and citric acid (AA-1% w/v + CA-1% w/w), and three different concentrations of citric acid (CA-2, 4 and 6% w/w) were used to create chitosan solution. The FTIR analysis showed the presence of residual CA in all the CA-containing samples where no trace of AA was observed. The tensile strengths of the CA-containing samples were lower than the AA samples. Whereas the values for the elongation at break of the CA samples were higher than the AA samples, which kept increasing with an increasing CA content due to the plasticizing effect from residual citric acid. The elongation at break values for 4 and 6% CA-containing samples were 98% higher than the AA samples. The samples prepared with CA showed shorter LVE regions that reduced with an increasing CA concentration compared to the AA samples. Different acid concentrations did not have a large effect on the gelation time. However, CA-containing samples showed higher viscosities as compared to the AA-containing solution, which increased with an increasing CA content. The water vapour transmission rates of the CA-containing samples were lower than the others. All the chitosan solutions suppressed the growth of the two test strains, and none of the variants reached an abs 600 nm at 0.2.

Polysaccharide-based nano-delivery systems for encapsulation, delivery, and pH-responsive release of bioactive ingredients

Polysaccharides are natural polymers isolated from plants, microorganisms, algae, and some animals they are composed of aldoses or ketoses linked by glycosidic bonds. Due to the affordability, abundance, safety, and functionality, polysaccharides are widely used in the foods and medicines to construct oral delivery systems for sensitive bioactive ingredients. In this article, the characteristics and applications of nanoscale polysaccharide-based delivery carriers are reviewed, including their ability to encapsulate, protect, and deliver bioactive ingredients. This review discusses the sources, characteristics, and functional properties of common food polysaccharides, including starch, pectin, chitosan, xanthan gum, and alginate. It also highlights the potential advantages of using polysaccharides for the construction of nano-delivery systems, such as nanoparticles, nanogels, nanoemulsions, nanocapsules, and nanofibers. Moreover, the application of delivery systems assembled from polysaccharides is summarized, with a focus on pH-responsive delivery of bioactives. There are some key findings and conclusions: Nanoscale polysaccharide delivery systems provide several advantages, including improved water-dispersibility, flavor masking, stability enhancement, reduced volatility, and controlled release; Polysaccharide nanocarriers can be used to construct pH-responsive delivery vehicles to achieve intestinal-targeted delivery and controlled release of bioactive ingredients; Polysaccharides can be used in combination with other biopolymers to form composite delivery systems with enhanced functional attributes.

Fucoidan-based nanomaterial and its multifunctional role for pharmaceutical and biomedical applications

Fucoidans are promising sulfated polysaccharides isolated from marine sources that have piqued the interest of scientists in recent years due to their widespread use as a bioactive substance. Bioactive coatings and films, unsurprisingly, have seized these substances to create novel, culinary, therapeutic, and diagnostic bioactive nanomaterials. The applications of fucoidan and its composite nanomaterials have a wide variety of food as well as pharmacological properties, including anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-thrombic, anti-coagulant, immunoregulatory, and anti-viral properties. Blends of fucoidan with other biopolymers such as chitosan, alginate, curdlan, starch, etc., have shown promising coating and film-forming capabilities. A blending of biopolymers is a recommended approach to improve their anticipated properties. This review focuses on the fundamental knowledge and current development of fucoidan, fucoidan-based composite material for bioactive coatings and films, and their biological properties. In this article, fucoidan-based edible bioactive coatings and films expressed excellent mechanical strength that can prolong the shelf-life of food products and maintain their biodegradability. Additionally, these coatings and films showed numerous applications in the biomedical field and contribute to the economy. We hope this review can deliver the theoretical basis for the development of fucoidan-based bioactive material and films.

Fucoidan-based nanoparticles: Preparations and applications

Nanoparticle-based therapy has gained much attention in the pharmaceutical industry. Fucoidan is a sulfated polysaccharide naturally derived from marine brown algae and is widely used for medical applications. We explore preparation of fucoidan-based nanoparticles and their biomedical applications in the current review. The fucoidan-based nanoparticles have been synthesized using microwave, emulsion, solvent evaporation, green synthesis, polyelectrolyte self-assembly, precipitation, and ultrasonication methods. The synthesized nanoparticles have particle sizes ranging from 100 to 400 nm. Therefore, fucoidan-based nanoparticles have a variety of potential therapeutic applications, including drug delivery, cancer therapies, tissue engineering, antimicrobial applications, magnetic resonance imaging contrast, and atherothrombosis imaging. For example, fucoidan nanoparticles have been used to deliver curcumin, dextran, gentamicin, epigallocatechin gallate, and cisplatin for cancer therapies. Furthermore, fucoidan nanoparticles coupled with metal nanoparticles have been used to target and recognize clinical conditions for diagnostic purposes. Hence, fucoidan-based nanoparticles have been helpful for biomedical applications.

Osteoblast Viability of Liquid Smoke Rice Hull and Nanoparticles Form as Periodontitis Treatment

OBJECTIVE

 Rice husk liquid smoke nanoparticles have the potential to be developed as a drug because they have anti-inflammatory effects that can modulate the process of osteoblast stimulation through osteoblast stimulation by thorough small size and enter cells easily. The osteoblast is the key of alveolar regeneration in periodontitis treatment. This present study analyzed the differences of liquid smoke rice husk and nanoparticles of liquid smoke rice husk on osteoblast viability as periodontitis treatment MATERIALS AND METHODS:  The liquid smoke rice husk was obtained from the pyrolysis process. The nanoparticles were made with chitosan, maltodextrin, and difference of concentration of liquid smoke rice husk (such as 1, 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10, 12.5, 15, and 17.5%). The viability of osteoblast was analyzed by 2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

The data were analyzed using independent t-test to analyze the differences between liquid smoke rice husk and nanoparticles of liquid smoke rice husk, the significant was set a p<0.05.

RESULT

 The nanoparticles of liquid smoke rice husk showed higher osteoblast viability compared liquid smoke rice husk. The nanoparticles' concentration of 5, 7.5, and 10% showed higher osteoblast viability compared liquid smoke rice husk (p = 0.002, 0.000, and 0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSION

 The nanoparticles of liquid smoke rice husk showed higher viability of osteoblast. This confirmed that the nanoparticles were able to reduce the toxicity in the higher concentration of liquid smoke of rice husk.

Protective effects of fucoidan against kidney diseases: Pharmacological insights and future perspectives

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major public health concern that costs millions of lives worldwide. Natural products are consistently being explored for the development of novel therapeutics in the management of CKD. Fucoidan is a sulfated polysaccharide predominantly extracted from brown seaweed, which has multiple pharmacological benefits against various kidney problems, including chronic renal failure and diabetic nephropathy. This review aimed at exploring literature to update the renoprotective effects of fucoidan, to get an understanding of pharmacological mechanisms, and to highlight the recent progress of fucoidan-based therapeutic development. Evidence shows that fucoidan is effective against inflammation, oxidative stress, and fibrosis in kidney. Fucoidan targets multiple signaling systems, including Nrf2/HO-1, NF-κB, ERK and p38 MAPK, TGF-β1, SIRT1, and GLP-1R signaling that are known to be associated with CKD pathobiology. Despite these pharmacological prospects, the application of fucoidan is limited by its larger molecular size. Notably, low molecular weight fucoidan has shown therapeutic promise in some recent studies. However, future research is warranted to translate the outcome of preclinical studies into clinical use in kidney patients.

Gene Set Enrichment Analysis Reveals That Fucoidan Induces Type I IFN Pathways in BMDC

Fucoidan, a sulfated polysaccharide extracted from brown seaweed, has been proposed to effectively treat and prevent various viral infections. However, the mechanisms behind its antiviral activity are not completely understood. We investigate here the global transcriptional changes in bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) using RNA-Seq technology. Through both analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEG) and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), we found that fucoidan-treated BMDCs were enriched in virus-specific response pathways, including that of SARS-CoV-2, as well as pathways associated with nucleic acid-sensing receptors (RLR, TLR, NLR, STING), and type I interferon (IFN) production. We show that these transcriptome changes are driven by well-known regulators of the inflammatory response against viruses, including IRF, NF-κB, and STAT family transcription factors. Furthermore, 435 of the 950 upregulated DEGs are classified as type I IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs). Flow cytometric analysis additionally showed that fucoidan increased MHCII, CD80, and CD40 surface markers in BMDCs, indicative of greater antigen presentation and co-stimulation functionality. Our current study suggests that fucoidan transcriptionally activates PRR signaling, type I IFN production and signaling, ISGs production, and DC maturation, highlighting a potential mechanism of fucoidan-induced antiviral activity.

Structural characterization of a P-selectin and EGFR dual-targeting fucoidan from Sargassum fusiforme

In this study, we obtained fucoidans SFP, SHP, STP, and FVP from Sargassum fusiforme, Sargassum horneri, Sargassumthunbergii, and Fucus vesiculosus, respectively. Chitosan/fucoidan nanoparticles (Cs/F NPs) were prepared using the fucoidans mentioned above. SFP NPs and SHP NPs showed strong binding abilities to P-selectin and epithelial growth factor receptor (EGFR). Given the yields from the alga, SFP was first selected to explore the structural characteristics of the P-selectin and EGFR dual-targeting fucoidan. SFP had an estimated molecular weight of 739 kDa and was mainly composed of galactose (26.57%, mol%) and fucose (66.81%), with minor amounts of mannose (2.54%), glucosamine (0.42%), and glucose (3.66%). Galactose and fucose accounted for thevast majority. Further investigation, including methylation analysis, one- and two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance, and mass spectroscopy, was performed to reveal the fine structure of SFP. The results indicated that SFP mainly consisted of → 3)-α-l-Fucp-(1→, →4)-α-l-Fucp-(1→, →3,4)-α-l-Fucp-(1→, →3)-β-d-Galp-(1→, and minor → 6)-β-d-Galp-(1→, partially sulfated at the C-4 of → 3)-α-l-Fucp-(1→, C-3 of → 4)-α-l-Fucp-(1→, C-3 of → 6)-β-d-Galp-(1→, and C-6 of → 3)-β-d-Galp-(1 → . Sulfated fuco- and galactofuco-segments formed the branches.

Chitosan/pullulan based films incorporated with clove essential oil loaded chitosan-ZnO hybrid nanoparticles for active food packaging

Herein, we developed clove essential oil (CEO) loaded Chitosan-ZnO hybrid nanoparticles (CS-ZnO@CEO (CZC NPs)) integrated chitosan/pullulan (CS/PL) nanocomposite films. SEM images revealed a homogenous distribution of CZC NPs with minimum aggregation in nanocomposite films. The incorporation of CZC NPs led to enhanced tensile strength (~39.82%), film hydrophobicity (~35.36%), UV light blocking ability, water vapor barrier (~84.64%), and oxygen barrier (~57.66%) compared to the bare CS/PL film and overall migration limit of CPCZC films were found below the permitted limit of 1000 μg/dm². Besides, incorporation of CZC NPs into the CS/PL films enhanced antioxidant activity and showed strong antibacterial activity against P. aeruginosa, S. aureus, and E. coli. Also, the CPCZC films displayed potential to extend the shelf-life of chicken meat by up to 5 days when stored at 8 ± 2 °C. These results suggest that the prepared CPCZC films acquire the ideal prerequisites for potential active packaging materials.

The use of chitosan as a skin-regeneration agent in burns injuries: A review

Chitosan is an amino-polysaccharide, traditionally obtained by the partial deacetylation of chitin from exoskeletons of crustaceans. Properties such as biocompatibility, hemostasis, and the ability to absorb physiological fluids are attributed to this biopolymer. Chitosan’s biological properties are regulated by its origin, polymerization degree, and molecular weight. In addition, it possesses antibacterial and antifungal activities. It also has been used to prepare films, hydrogels, coatings, nanofibers, and absorbent sponges, all utilized for the healing of skin wounds. In in vivo studies with second-degree burns, healing has been achieved in at least 80% of the cases between the ninth and twelfth day of treatment with chitosan coatings. The crucial steps in the treatment of severe burns are the early excision of damaged tissue and adequate coverage to minimize the risk of infection. So far, partial-thickness autografting is considered the gold standard for the treatment of full-thickness burns. However, the limitations of donor sites have led to the development of skin substitutes. Therefore, the need for an appropriate dermal equivalent that functions as a regeneration template for the growth and deposition of new skin tissue has been recognized. This review describes the properties of chitosan that validate its potential in the treatment of skin burns.

Physicochemical properties of fucoidan and its applications as building blocks of nutraceutical delivery systems

Many bioactive ingredients with health effects such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective possess low bioavailability due to poor solubility and sensitivity. Fucoidan is an ideal material for encapsulating bioactive ingredients because of its unique physicochemical and biological properties, which can improve the function and application of bioactive ingredients. Nevertheless, there is still a lack of review about the physicochemical properties as well as functionalities of fucoidan and the application of fucoidan-based delivery systems in functional food. Hence, in this review, recent advances on the structure, chemical modification, physicochemical properties and biological activity of fucoidan are summarized. This review systematacially describes the recent update on the fucoidan as a wall material for delivering nutraceuticals with a broad discussion on various types of delivery systems ranging from nanoparticles, nanoparticle/bead complexes, emulsions, edible films, nanocapsules and hydrogels. Futhermore, the technical scientific issues of the application of fucoidan in the field of food are emphasized. On the basis of more comprehensive and deeper understandings, the review ends with a concluding remark on future directions of fucoidan-based delivery systems for purposes. Novel fucoidan-based delivery systems such as aerogels, Pickering emulsions, emulsion-filled-hydrogels, liposomes-in-fucoidan, co-delivery systems of bioactive igredients can be designed.

Coating of Magnetite Nanoparticles with Fucoidan to Enhance Magnetic Hyperthermia Efficiency

Magnetic nanoparticles (NP), such as magnetite, have been the subject of research for application in the biomedical field, especially in Magnetic Hyperthermia Therapy (MHT), a promising technique for cancer therapy. NP are often coated with different compounds such as natural or synthetic polymers to protect them from oxidation and enhance their colloidal electrostatic stability while maintaining their thermal efficiency. In this work, the synthesis and characterization of magnetite nanoparticles coated with fucoidan, a biopolymer with recognized biocompatibility and antitumoral activity, is reported. The potential application of NP in MHT was evaluated through the assessment of Specific Loss Power (SLP) under an electromagnetic field amplitude of 14.7 kA m⁻¹ and at 276 kHz. For fucoidan-coated NP, it was obtained SLP values of 100 and 156 W/g, corresponding to an Intrinsic Loss Power (ILP) of 1.7 and 2.6 nHm²kg⁻¹, respectively. These values are, in general, higher than the ones reported in the literature for non-coated magnetite NP or coated with other polymers. Furthermore, in vitro assays showed that fucoidan and fucoidan-coated NP are biocompatible. The particle size (between ca. 6 to 12 nm), heating efficiency, and biocompatibility of fucoidan-coated magnetite NP meet the required criteria for MHT application.

Recent advances in chitosan-based layer-by-layer biomaterials and their biomedical applications

In recent years, chitosan-based biomaterials have been continually and extensively researched by using layer-by-layer (LBL) assembly, due to their potentials in biomedicine. Various chitosan-based LBL materials have been newly developed and applied in different areas along with the development of technologies. This work reviews the recent advances of chitosan-based biomaterials produced by LBL assembly. Driving forces of LBL, for example electrostatic interactions, hydrogen bond as well as Schiff base linkage have been discussed. Various forms of chitosan-based LBL materials such as films/coatings, capsules and fibers have been reviewed. The applications of these biomaterials in the field of antimicrobial applications, drug delivery, wound dressings and tissue engineering have been comprehensively reviewed.

Development and evaluation of a novel nanofibersolosome for enhancing the stability, in vitro bioaccessibility, and colonic delivery of cyanidin-3-O-glucoside

The development of colon-specific carrier systems using polysaccharides for oral delivery of nutraceuticals is of great importance for the treatment and/or prevention of inflammatory bowel diseases. In this study, self-assembly with the assistance of vortexing and pulsed-ultrasonication was employed to develop a Fibersol®-2 (a digestion-resistant polysaccharide) and lipoid S75 based novel nanocarrier (denoted as nanofibersolosome) for the colonic delivery of cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G). A series of nanofibersolosome formulations (CFS-0.5-4, 0.5-4 represent the ratios of Fibersol®-2:lipoid S75) were developed and their performance was compared with Fibersol®-2-free reference lipid formulation (CFS-0). The nanofibersolosomes (<150 nm) were spherical and unilamellar with high negative surface charge (-38 to -51 mV) and good encapsulation efficiency (EE > 90%). They performed much better than CFS-0 in retaining their physical properties during freeze drying, preventing particle aggregation, and retaining C3G during storage (4 and 25 ℃) and thermal treatments (40, 60, and 80 ℃). They also exhibited significantly higher stability during simulated gastrointestinal digestion than CFS-0. These desirable features of the nanofibersolosomes (especially CFS-0.5 and CFS-1) led to the efficient delivery of higher concentrations of C3G to the colon than CFS-0. Moreover, gastrointestinal-digested and colonic-fermented nanofibersolosome samples exhibited significantly higher DPPH radical scavenging activity and stronger promoting effect on short-chain fatty acid generation than CFS-0. These in vitro findings indicate that the novel nanofibersolosome possesses great potential for the colonic delivery of C3G and likely other hydrophilic labile phytochemicals that merits further evaluation in in vivo models.

Biopolymer-Based Multilayer Capsules and Beads Made via Templating: Advantages, Hurdles and Perspectives

One of the undeniable trends in modern bioengineering and nanotechnology is the use of various biomolecules, primarily of a polymeric nature, for the design and formulation of novel functional materials for controlled and targeted drug delivery, bioimaging and theranostics, tissue engineering, and other bioapplications. Biocompatibility, biodegradability, the possibility of replicating natural cellular microenvironments, and the minimal toxicity typical of biogenic polymers are features that have secured a growing interest in them as the building blocks for biomaterials of the fourth generation. Many recent studies showed the promise of the hard-templating approach for the fabrication of nano- and microparticles utilizing biopolymers. This review covers these studies, bringing together up-to-date knowledge on biopolymer-based multilayer capsules and beads, critically assessing the progress made in this field of research, and outlining the current challenges and perspectives of these architectures. According to the classification of the templates, the review sequentially considers biopolymer structures templated on non-porous particles, porous particles, and crystal drugs. Opportunities for the functionalization of biopolymer-based capsules to tailor them toward specific bioapplications is highlighted in a separate section.

On the Development of All-Cellulose Capsules by Vesicle-Templated Layer-by-Layer Assembly

Polymeric multilayer capsules formed by the Layer-by-Layer (LbL) technique are interesting candidates for the purposes of storage, encapsulation, and release of drugs and biomolecules for pharmaceutical and biomedical applications. In the current study, cellulose-based core-shell particles were developed via the LbL technique alternating two cellulose derivatives, anionic carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), and cationic quaternized hydroxyethylcellulose ethoxylate (QHECE), onto a cationic vesicular template made of didodecyldimethylammonium bromide (DDAB). The obtained capsules were characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), ζ potential measurements, and high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (HR-SEM). DLS measurements reveal that the size of the particles can be tuned from a hundred nanometers with a low polydispersity index (deposition of 2 layers) up to micrometer scale (deposition of 6 layers). Upon the deposition of each cellulose derivative, the particle charge is reversed, and pH is observed to considerably affect the process thus demonstrating the electrostatic driving force for LbL deposition. The HR-SEM characterization suggests that the shape of the core-shell particles formed is reminiscent of the spherical vesicle template. The development of biobased nano- and micro-containers by the alternating deposition of oppositely charged cellulose derivatives onto a vesicle template offers several advantages, such as simplicity, reproducibility, biocompatibility, low-cost, mild reaction conditions, and high controllability over particle size and composition of the shell.

Physicochemical characterisation and release behaviour of curcumin-loaded lactoferrin nanohydrogels into food simulants

Whey protein nanostructures can be used as vehicles for the incorporation of nutraceuticals (e.g., antioxidants or vitamins) aimed at the development of functional foods, because nanostructures provide greater protection, stability and controlled release to such nutraceuticals. Fundamental knowledge is required regarding the behaviour of nanostructures when associated with nutraceuticals and their interactions with real food matrices. In this study, a lactoferrin (LF) nanohydrogel was developed to encapsulate curcumin (nutraceutical model) and its behaviour was evaluated in terms of the LF structure and the interaction with curcumin. The release kinetics of curcumin from LF nanohydrogels was also assessed using food simulants with a hydrophilic nature (10% ethanol) and lipophilic nature (50% ethanol). This system was able to encapsulate curcumin at 80 μg mL-1 with an efficiency of ca. 90% and loading capacity of ca. 3%. Through spectroscopic characterisation, it is suggested that LF and curcumin bind via hydrophobic interactions and the average binding distance between LF and curcumin was found to be 1.91 nm. Under refrigerated conditions (4 °C), this system showed stability for up to 35 days, while at room temperature (25 °C) it was shown to be stable for up to 14 days of storage. The LF nanohydrogel presented higher release rates of curcumin in a lipophilic food simulant (stable after ca. 7 h) as compared to a hydrophilic simulant (stable after ca. 4 h). LF nanohydrogels were successfully incorporated into a gelatine matrix and showed no degradation in this process. The behaviour of this system and the curcumin release kinetics in food stimulants make the LF nanohydrogel an interesting system to associate with lipophilic nutraceuticals and to incorporate in refrigerated food products of a hydrophilic nature.

Ultrasound-assisted development of stable grapefruit peel polyphenolic nano-emulsion: Optimization and application in improving oxidative stability of mustard oil

Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) peel (GP) is rich in flavonoids and phenolics which have several proven pharmacological effects. However, their chemical instability towards oxygen, light and heat limits its applications in food industries. In the present study, we evaluated the feasibility of fabricating grapefruit-peel-phenolic (GPP) nano-emulsion in mustard oil using ultrasonication. Response surface methodology (RSM) optimization revealed that sonication time of 9.5 min at 30% amplitude and 0.52% Span-80 produced the stable GPP nano-emulsion with a droplet size of 29.73 ± 1.62 nm. Results indicate that both ultrasonication and Span-80 can assist the fabrication of a stabilized nano-emulsion. This study is one of its kind where nano-encapsulation of GPP into W/O emulsion was done to stabilize the active compound inside mustard oil and then the nano-emulsion was used to extend oxidative stability of mustard oil. Findings provide a basic guideline to formulate stable nano-emulsions for their use in active food packaging, oils, and pharmaceuticals.

Eco-friendly synthesis of functionalized chitosan-based nanoantibiotic system for potential delivery of linezolid as antimicrobial agents

To obtain a healthy human being with beneficial microflora against different pathogenic infections, classical antibiotics with nanosized biomaterials were used to inhibit the growth of bacterium by their potent synergistic effect. Hence, this study planned to load an oxazolidinone antibiotic named linezolid (LD) onto functionalized chitosan (CN) with 3, 5- dinitrosalyslic acid (DA) via microwave synthesis without harsh condition. The exploring synergistic effect of linezolid (LD) with CN/DA controllable nanostructure was compact efflux-mediated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) burden and other selected bactericide Gram-positive ((S. aureus), Gram-negative (E. coli), Fungi (C. albicans), Yeast (A. niger), and E. faecalis. The obtained results showed that LD was incorporated into both the internal and external surface of the aggregated CN/DA nanosystem with an average diameter of 150 nm ± 4 hints of the drug loading. Owing to the nature of functionalized CN, the release efficiency attains 98.4% within 100 min. The designed LD@CN/DA exhibited inhibition zone 54 mm, 59 mm, 69 mm, 54 mm, 57 mm, and 24 mm against the tested microbes respectively rather than individual LD. The major target of the current research is achieved by using LD@CN/DA as a nanoantibiotic system that has exceptional consistently active against multi-resistant pathogens, in between MRSA which resist LD. Also, cell viability was performed even after three days of direct cell culture on the surface of the designed nanoantibiotic. The mechanism of microbial inhibition was correlated and rationalized to different charges and the presence of oxygen species against microbial infections. Our findings provide a deep explanation about nanostructured antibiotics design with enhanced potentially pathogen-specific activity.

Current Designs and Developments of Fucoidan-based Formulations for Cancer Therapy

BACKGROUND

Natural nanostructure materials have been involved in antitumor drug delivery systems due to their biocompatibility, biodegradation, and bioactive properties.

METHODS

These materials have contributed to advanced drug delivery systems in the roles of both bioactive compounds and delivery nanocarriers. Fucoidan, a valuable ocean material used in drug delivery systems, has been exploited in research on cancer and a variety of other diseases.

RESULTS

Although the uniqueness, structure, properties, and health benefits of fucoidan have been mentioned in various prominent reviews, current developments and designs of fucoidan-based formulations still need to be assessed to further develop an effective anticancer therapy. In this review, current important formulations using fucoidan as a functional material and as an anticancer agent will be discussed. This article will also provide a brief principle of the methods that incorporate functional nanostructure materials in formulations exploiting fucoidan.

CONCLUSION

Current research and future perspectives on the use of fucoidan in anticancer therapy will advance innovative and important products for clinical uses.

Mucoadhesive and pH responsive fucoidan-chitosan nanoparticles for the oral delivery of methotrexate

Considering the potential of mucoadhesive properties of nanoparticles in oral delivery, this work describes the preparation and characterization of fucoidan/chitosan nanoparticles loaded with methotrexate (MTX) intended to lung cancer therapy. The nanoparticles were produced and characterized in terms of size, surface charge, entrapment efficiency, and morphology. The size of the developed nanoparticles was around 300 nm, the zeta potential value was negative (ca. -30 mV), revealing a low tendency to aggregate. The self-assembled fucoidan/chitosan nanoparticles were stable at acidic pH (1.6-5.2), without disintegration under pH 6-7.4, revealing resistance through the gastrointestinal tract, and were found to be mucoadhesive suggesting ability to enhance drug oral bioavailability. Lung cancer cells quickly internalized the developed nanoparticles. Moreover, MTX-loaded fucoidan/chitosan nanoparticles up to 245 μg mL-1 in polymer equivalent to 23.5 μg mL-1 of MTX were safe towards fibroblasts but hampered lung cancer cell proliferation mediated by an apoptotic process. MTX-loaded nanoparticles were 7-fold more effective in inhibiting lung cancer cells proliferation than the free drug, showing the potential of fucoidan-chitosan nanoparticles to improve the cytotoxicity of free methotrexate on A549 lung cancer cells. These results also demonstrate that fucoidan/chitosan nanoparticles may provide a suitable platform for poor-water soluble compounds' oral delivery.

Fucoidans: Downstream Processes and Recent Applications

Fucoidans are multifunctional marine macromolecules that are subjected to numerous and various downstream processes during their production. These processes were considered the most important abiotic factors affecting fucoidan chemical skeletons, quality, physicochemical properties, biological properties and industrial applications. Since a universal protocol for fucoidans production has not been established yet, all the currently used processes were presented and justified. The current article complements our previous articles in the fucoidans field, provides an updated overview regarding the different downstream processes, including pre-treatment, extraction, purification and enzymatic modification processes, and shows the recent non-traditional applications of fucoidans in relation to their characters.

Radioprotective effect of self-assembled low molecular weight Fucoidan-Chitosan nanoparticles

Fucoidan, a sulphated polysaccharide, plays a vital role in reducing cellular oxidative damage by exerting potential antioxidant activity. However, because of the negative surface charges of oligofucoidan, it shows poor oral intestinal absorption. To overcome this drawback, the oligofucoidan polysaccharides self-assembled with opposite charge based polysaccharides (chitosan) to form the chitosan-fucoidan polysaccharides (C₁-F₃P) nanoparticles (NPs) of 190-230 nm in size. The oligofucoidan and C₁-F₃P NPs were studied for their radioprotective property using mice exposed to 5 Gy radiation. The C₁-F₃P NPs prevents radiation induced lipid peroxidation and restores intestinal enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants (p < 0.05) status. In addition, hematoxylin-eosin staining revealed the radioprotective effect of oligofucoidan and C₁-F₃P NPs by mitigating the loss of crypt and villi in the small intestine. Thus, the present study demonstrated that C₁-F₃P NPs can be considered as a radioprotective agent that can be used for the prevention and treatment of Gy-radiation-induced intestine injury.

Novel fucoidan based bioactive targeted nanoparticles from Undaria Pinnatifida for treatment of pancreatic cancer

Fucoidan is a marine polymer extracted from diverse types of brown algae. This polysaccharide showed great potential towards treatment of different types of cancer. In this study, the activity of fucoidan extracted from Undaria Pinnatifida was investigated against pancreatic cancer (one of the most life-threatening cancers). Then, in an attempt to enhance the polymer's activity against cancer cells, conversion the polymer solution to nanoparticles was suggested to enhance its delivery through pancreatic cancer surrounding stroma. Novel fucoidan based nanoparticles were elaborated by polyelectrolyte interaction with the positively charged, active targeting ligand lactoferrin. The formulation was optimized through the interplay between different factors. Effect of fucoidan solution along with its blank nanoparticles was tested on the viability of pancreatic cancer cells and its migration and invasion abilities. Results confirmed the cytotoxic ability of fucoidan against pancreatic cancer. IC50 value decreased by 2.3 folds when the polymer was converted to nanoparticles. The prepared nanosystems showed an enhanced ability to prevent pancreatic cancer cells' migration and invasion. Results suggested the potential of using these nanoparticles as bioactive dual-targeted system either blank or loaded with different anticancer agents for treatment for pancreatic cancer.

Lactoferrin-based nanoemulsions to improve the physical and chemical stability of omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 (ω-3) polyunsaturated fatty acids are highly susceptible to oxidation and have an intense odour and poor water solubility, which make their direct applications in foods extremely difficult.

The Potential of Fucose-Containing Sulfated Polysaccharides As Scaffolds for Biomedical Applications

Marine environments have a high quantity and diversity of sulfated polysaccharides. In coastal regions brown algae are the most abundant biomass producers and their cell walls have fucosecontaining sulfated polysaccharides (FCSP), known as fucans and/or fucoidans. These sulfated compounds have been widely researched for their biomedical properties, namely the immunomodulatory, haemostasis, pathogen inhibition, anti-inflammatory capacity, and antitumoral. These activities are probably due to their ability to mimic the carbohydrate moieties of mammalian glycosaminoglycans. Therefore, the FCSP are interesting compounds for application in health-related subjects, mainly for developing scaffolds for delivery systems or tissue regeneration. FCSP showed potential for these applications also due to their ability to form stable 3D structures with other polymers able to entrap therapeutic agents or cell and growth factors, besides their biocompatibility and biodegradability. However, for the clinical use of these biopolymers well-defined reproducible molecules are required in order to accurately establish relationships between structural features and human health applications.

Natural Microbial Communities Can Be Manipulated by Artificially Constructed Biofilms

Biofouling proceeds in successive steps where the primary colonizers affect the phylogenetic and functional structure of a future microbial consortium. Using microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) as a study case, a novel approach for material surface protection is described, which does not prevent biofouling, but rather shapes the process of natural biofilm development to exclude MIC-related microorganisms. This approach interferes with the early steps of natural biofilm formation affecting how the community is finally developed. It is based on a multilayer artificial biofilm, composed of electrostatically modified bacterial cells, producing antimicrobial compounds, extracellular antimicrobial polyelectrolyte matrix, and a water-proof rubber elastomer barrier. The artificial biofilm is constructed layer-by-layer (LBL) by manipulating the electrostatic interactions between microbial cells and material surfaces. Field testing on standard steel coupons exposed in the sea for more than 30 days followed by laboratory analyses using molecular-biology tools demonstrate that the preapplied artificial biofilm affects the phylogenetic structure of the developing natural biofilm, reducing phylogenetic diversity and excluding MIC-related bacteria. This sustainable solution for material protection showcases the usefulness of artificially guiding microbial evolutionary processes via the electrostatic modification and controlled delivery of bacterial cells and extracellular matrix to the exposed material surfaces.