Preparation and characterization of acetylated starch nanoparticles as drug carrier: Ciprofloxacin as a model

Liquid nitrogen ball-milled mechanochemical modification of starches with typically selected A, B and C crystal types on multiscale structure and physicochemical properties

This study investigated the effect of liquid nitrogen ball-milled mechanochemical treatment on multiscale structure and physicochemical properties of starches with typically selected A (rice starch, ReS), B (potato starch, PtS) and C (pea starch, PeS) crystal types. The morphology of starch samples changed from integral granules to irregular fragments, and the interaction between the exposure OH bonds led to a serious agglomeration. As the treatment times extended, the crystalline structure of starch samples was gradually destroyed, and the excessive treatment approached amorphization. Moreover, the thermal stability of starch samples showed the downward tendency; and with amorphization increased, the swelling power (SP), solubility (S), water absorption capacity (WAC), oil absorption capacity (OAC) and hydrolysis rate of starch samples gradually increased. The obtained results provided a theoretical foundation for broadening the application range of ball-milled starches with different crystal types.

Preparation and characterization of acetylated starch/papain composites

This research aimed to prepare and characterize acetylated starch/papain composites by encapsulating papain within acetylated cassava starch with a low degree of substitution (DS = 0.037) through a stepwise antisolvent precipitation method. The effects of starch concentrations, starch solution volumes, and surfactant types and concentrations were examined. An increase in starch concentration generally enhanced EE, but an excessive concentration led to a decrease in performance due to the aggregation of starch. Furthermore, LC decreased as the starch concentration increased, while the volume of the starch solution primarily influenced LC. Surfactants were employed to disperse the particles and prevent their aggregation during encapsulation, with higher concentrations, particularly of Tween 80, improving both EE and LC but reducing the activity of papain. Optimal results were achieved with a starch concentration of 30 mg mL-1, solution volume of 7 mL, and 3% v/v Tween 80, resulting in an EE of 96.23% and LC of 12.40%. However, the residual papain activity under these conditions dropped to approximately 56%. In contrast, Tween 20 at 1% v/v preserved higher papain activity (87%), although it yielded a lower EE of 69.87% and LC of 9.32%. SEM images revealed that the resulting composite particles had rough, indistinct clusters with surfaces featuring clustered starch nanoparticles. Confirmatory analyses via fluorescence spectra and FTIR confirmed successful entrapment of papain within acetylated starch with a lower degree of substitution.

Enhancing the antibacterial activity of ampicillin loaded into chitosan/starch nanocomposites against AMR Staphylococcusaureus

Ampicillin (Amp), an antibiotic, is widely used to treat bacterial infections in humans and livestock, but recently the rate of resistance has increased rapidly. The aim of this work was to enhancing the antibacterial effect of this compound against AMR Staphylococcus aureus via loading Amp into chitosan/starch nanocomposites by spray drying technique. The results showed that the different ratio of chitosan gel and starch gel used in preparing the nanocomposites can affect its properties and performance. The size distribution of the nanocomposite particles was ranging from 122.0 to 816.9 nm. The zeta potential values of the nanocomposites range from +29.47 to +93.07 mV, indicating the stability of the particles and their tendency to repel each other. Ampicillin was loaded into the chitosan/starch nanocomposites with encapsulation efficiency of 70.7-77.3 %, then their releasing and antibacterial effect against AMR S. aureus were investigated. The results indicated that antibacterial activity of chitosan/starch nanocomposites loaded ampicillin was much higher than ampicillin alone. Chitosan/starch nanocomposites loaded ampicillin at concentration 5.0 μg/mL inhibited 88.6 % growth of S. aureus to a similar extent as 7.5 μg/mL of ampicillin alone. Additionally, at same 7.5 μg/mL ampicillin concentration, the nanocomposites loaded ampicillin showed a higher inhibitory rate (93.27 %) compared to ampicillin alone (88.96 %) over a 12 h-period. Especially, the antibacterial activity of chitosan/starch nanocomposites loaded ampicillin still maintained their effectiveness over 48 h (95.43 %) while those the ampicillin decreased down to 85.76 %. This research highlights the potential of using the chitosan/starch nanocomposites as nanocarriers for ampicillin to enhance its antibacterial activity against AMR Staphylococcus aureus. This approach could be a promising strategy to combat antimicrobial resistance.

Dual-modified starch micelles as nanocarriers for efficient encapsulation and controlled release of walnut-derived active peptides

Hydrophilic and hydrophobic modified nanomicelles might be more conducive to passage of the gastrointestinal barrier than walnut peptide (WP). In this study, a novel double modified starch polymer, SB-CST-DCA, was synthesized by grafting sulfabetaine (SB) and deoxycholic acid (DCA) onto corn starch (CST) molecules through etherification and esterification. The modification mechanism was discussed to determine its chemical structure, morphological properties, and thermal stability. Peptide-loaded nanomicelles (SB-CST-DCA-WP) were prepared using WP as the core material. The encapsulation efficiency and peptide loading amount reached 76.90 ± 1.52% and 18.27 ± 0.53%, respectively, with good stability and pH-responsive release behavior observed to effectively control WP release and enhance its antioxidant activity. The composite exhibited safety, non-toxicity, and good blood compatibility at concentrations below 125 μg/mL. Duodenum was identified as the main absorption site with an absorption ratio of 41.16 ± 0.36%.

Preparation and Characterization of Chitosan/Starch Nanocomposites Loaded with Ampicillin to Enhance Antibacterial Activity against Escherichia coli

Chitosan/starch nanocomposites loaded with ampicillin were prepared using the spray-drying method by mixing various ratios of chitosan and starch. The morphology of chitosan/starch nanoparticles was studied using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), and the zeta potential value and size distribution were determined by a Nanoparticle Analyzer. The results show that the chitosan/starch nanocomposites have a spherical shape, smooth surface, and stable structure. Nanoparticle size distribution ranged from 100 to 600 nm, and the average particle size ranged from 300 to 400 nm, depending on the ratio between chitosan and starch. The higher the ratio of starch in the copolymer, the smaller the particle size. Zeta potential values of the nanocomposite were very high, ranging from +54.4 mV to +80.3 mV, and decreased from 63.2 down to +37.3 when loading with ampicillin. The chitosan/starch nanocomposites were also characterized by FT-IR to determine the content of polymers and ampicillin in the nanocomposites. The release kinetics of ampicillin from the nanocomposites were determined in vitro using an HPLC profile for 24 h. The loading efficiency (LE) of ampicillin into chitosan/starch nanoparticles ranged from 75.3 to 77.3%. Ampicillin-loaded chitosan/starch nanocomposites were investigated for their antibacterial activity against antibiotic-resistant Escherichia coli in vitro. The results demonstrate that the antibacterial effectiveness of nanochitosan/starch loading with ampicillin against E.coli was 95.41%, higher than the 91.40% effectiveness of ampicillin at the same concentration of 5.0 µg/mL after 24 h of treatment. These results suggest that chitosan/starch nanocomposites are potential nanomaterials for antibiotic drug delivery in the pharmaceutical field.

Properties and functions of acylated starch with short-chain fatty acids: a comprehensive review

Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are the primary energy source of colonic epithelial cells, but oral SCFAs are digested, absorbed, or degraded before reaching the colon. The acylated starch with SCFAs can be fermented and release specific SCFAs under the action of colonic intestinal microbiota. This review first introduces the preparation method, reaction mechanism, and substitution factors. Second, the structure, physical and chemical properties, in vitro function, and mechanism of acylated starch were expounded. Finally, the application of acylated starch in foods is introduced, and its safety is evaluated, providing a basis for the further development of acylated starch-based foods. The acylated starch obtained by different acylation types and preparation methods is different in particle, molecular, and crystal structures, leading to changes in the function and physicochemical properties. Meanwhile, acylated starch has the functional potential of targeted delivery of SCFAs to the colon, which can increase SCFAs in feces and intestine, selectively regulate the intestinal microbiota, and produce a prebiotic effect conducive to host health. The safety of acetylated starch has been supported by relevant studies, which have been widely used in various food fields and have great potential in the food industry.

Starch nanoparticles with predictable size prepared by alternate treatments of ball milling and ultrasonication

In this study, starch nanoparticles (SNPs) were prepared by alternate treatments of liquid nitrogen ball milling and ultrasonication. The impact, shear and friction forces produced by ball milling, and acoustic cavitation and shear effects generated by ultrasonication disrupted starch granules to prepare SNPs. The SNPs possessed narrow particle size distribution (46.91-210.52 nm) and low polydispersity index (0.28-0.45). Additionally, the SNPs exhibited the irregular fragments with good uniformity. The relative crystallinity decreased from 34.91 % (waxy corn starch, WCS) to 0-25.91 % (SNPs), and the absorbance ratios of R1047/1022 decreased from 0.81 (WCS) to 0.60-0.76 (SNPs). The SNPs had lower thermal stability than that of WCS, characterized by a decrease in Td (temperature at maximum weight loss) from 309.39 °C (WCS) to 300.39-305.75 °C (SNPs). Furthermore, the SNPs exhibited excellent swelling power (3.48-28.02 %) and solubility (0.34-0.97 g/g). Notably, oil absorption capacity of the SNPs (9.77-15.67 g/g) was rather greater than that of WCS (1.33 g/g). Furthermore, the SNPs possessed the lower storage modulus (G'), loss modulus (G″) and viscosity than that of WCS. The SNPs with predictable size and high dispersion capability prepared in this study lay a foundation for expanding the application of SNPs.

The contemplation of amylose for the delivery of ulcerogenic nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

This manuscript proposes an innovative approach to mitigate the gastrointestinal adversities linked with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) by exploiting amylose as a novel drug delivery carrier. The intrinsic attributes of V-amylose, such as its structural uniqueness, biocompatibility and biodegradability, as well as its capacity to form inclusion complexes with diverse drug molecules, are meticulously explored. Through a comprehensive physicochemical analysis of V-amylose and ulcerogenic NSAIDs, the plausibility of amylose as a protective carrier for ulcerogenic NSAIDs to gastrointestinal regions is elucidated. This review further discusses the potential therapeutic advantages of amylose-based drug delivery systems in the management of gastric ulcers. By providing controlled release kinetics and enhanced bioavailability, these systems offer promising prospects for the development of more effective ulcer therapies.

Characteristics of amylose-lipid complex prepared from pullulanase-treated rice and wheat flour

This study aimed to evaluate the properties of amylose-lipid complexes in rice and wheat flours utilizing pullulanase as a debranching enzyme. Rice and flour were both treated with pullulanase before being combined with free fatty acids to form compounds denoted as RPF (rice-pullulanase-fatty acid) and FPF (flour-pullulanase-fatty acid), respectively. Our results showed that RPF and FPF had higher complex index and lower hydrolysis values than enzyme-untreated amylose-lipid complexes. Furthermore, RPF and FPF demonstrated lower swelling power and higher water solubility values, indicating changes in the physical properties of the starches. In vivo studies showed that RPF and FPF caused a smaller increase in blood glucose levels than untreated rice and flour, highlighting their potential use as functional food ingredients. These findings provide valuable information for the development of novel rice-and wheat-based foods with improved nutritional and physiological properties.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10068-023-01411-0.

Polymorphic nanostarch-mediated assembly of bioactives

Starch as an edible, biosafe, and functional biopolymer, has been tailored at nanoscale to deliver bioactive guests. Nanostarches fabricated in various morphologies including nanosphere, nanorod, nanoworm, nanovesicle, nanopolyhedron, nanoflake, nanonetwork etc., enable them to assemble different kinds of bioactives due to structural particularity and green modification. Previous studies have reviewed nanostarch for its preparation and application in food, however, no such work has been done for the potential of delivery system via polymorphic nanostarches. In this review, we focus on the merits of nanostarch empowered by multi-morphology for delivery system, and also conclude the assembly strategies and corresponding properties of nanostarch-based carrier. Additionally, the advantages, limitations, and future perspectives of polymorphic nanostarch are summarized to better understand the micro/nanostarch architectures and their regulation for the compatibility of bioactive molecules. According to the morphology of carrier, nanostarch effectively captures bioactives on the surface and/or inside core to form tight complexes, which maintains their stability in the human microenvironment. It improves the bioavailability of bioactive guests by different assembly approaches of carrier/guest surface combination, guest@carrier embedment, and nanostarch-mediated encapsulation. Targeted release of delivery systems is stimulated by the microenvironment conditions based on the complex structure of nanostarch loaded with bioactives.

Construction of intelligent drug delivery system based on polysaccharide-derived polymer micelles: A review

Micelles are nanostructures developed via the spontaneous assembly of amphiphilic polymers in aqueous systems, which possess the advantages of high drug stability or active-ingredient solubilization, targeted transport, controlled release, high bioactivity, and stability. Polysaccharides have excellent water solubility, biocompatibility, and degradability, and can be modified to achieve a hydrophobic core to encapsulate hydrophobic drugs, improve drug biocompatibility, and achieve regulated delivery of the loaded drug. Micelles drug delivery systems based on polysaccharides and their derivatives show great potential in the biomedical field. This review discusses the principles of self-assembly of amphiphilic polymers and the formation of micelles; the preparation of amphiphilic polysaccharides is described in detail, and an overview of common polysaccharides and their modifications is provided. We focus on the review of strategies for encapsulating drugs in polysaccharide-derived polymer micelles (PDPMs) and building intelligent drug delivery systems. This review provides new research directions that will help promote future research and development of PDPMs in the field of drug carriers.

Preparation, multi-scale structures, and functionalities of acetylated starch: An updated review

Acetylated starch has been widely used as food additives. However, there was limited information available regarding the impact of acetylation on starch structure and functionalities, as well as the advanced acetylation technologies. This review aimed to summarize current methods for starch acetylation and discuss the structure and functionalities of acetylated starch. Innovative techniques, such as milling, microwave, pulsed electric fields, ultrasonic, and extrusion, could be employed for environmental-friendly synthesis of acetylated starch. Acetylation led to the degradation of starch structures and weakening of the interactions between starch molecules, resulting in the disorganization of starch multi-scale ordered structure. The introduction of acetyl groups retarded the self-reassembly behavior of starch, leading to increased solubility, clarity, and softness of starch-based hydrogels. Moreover, the acetyl groups improved water/oil absorption capacity, emulsifiability, film-forming properties, and colonic fermentability of starch, while reduced the susceptibility of starch molecules to enzymes. Importantly, starch functionalities were largely influenced by the decoration of acetyl groups on starch molecules, while the impact of multi-scale ordered structures on starch physicochemical properties was relatively minor. These findings will aid in the design of structured acetylated starch with desirable functionalities.

Study on the effect of different concentrations of choline glycine ionic liquid-water mixtures on debranched starch butyrylation reaction

In this study, the effect of choline glycine ionic liquids on the butyrylation of starch was investigated by the butyrylation of debranched cornstarch in different concentrations of choline glycine ionic liquid-water mixtures (choline glycine ionic liquids to water in mass ratios of 0:10, 4:6, 5:5, 6:4, 7:3, 8:2 and 10:0). The butyryl characteristic peaks in ¹H NMR and FTIR of the butyrylated samples indicated the success of butyrylation modification. ¹H NMR calculations showed that the most effective mass ratio of choline glycine ionic liquids to water (6:4) increased the butyryl substitution degree from 0.13 to 0.42. X-ray diffraction results showed that the crystalline type of the starch modified in the choline glycine ionic liquid-water mixtures changed from B-type to a mixture of V-type and B-type isomers. The butyrylated starch modified in the ionic liquid increased its own content of resistant starch from 25.42 % to 46.09 %. This study highlights the effect of different concentrations of choline glycine ionic liquid-water mixtures on the promotion of starch butyrylation reactions.

Reinvention of starch for oral drug delivery system design

Starch is a polysaccharide with varying amylose-to-amylopectin ratios as a function of its biological sources. It is characterized by low shear stress resistance, poor aqueous/organic solubility and gastrointestinal digestibility which limit its ease of processing and functionality display as an oral drug delivery vehicle. Modulation of starch composition through genetic engineering primarily alters amylose-to-amylopectin ratio. Greater molecular properties changes require chemical and enzymatic modifications of starch. Acetylation reduces water solubility and enzymatic digestibility of starch. Carboxymethylation turns starch acid-insoluble and aggregative at low pHs. The summative effects are sustaining drug release in the upper gut. Acid-insoluble carboxymethylated starch can be aminated to provide an ionic character essential for hydrogel formation which further reduces its drug release. Ionic starch can coacervate with oppositely charged starch, non-starch polyelectrolyte or drug into insoluble, controlled-release complexes. Enzymatically debranched and resistant starch has a small molecular size which confers chain aggregation into a helical hydrogel network that traps the drug molecules, protecting them from biodegradation. The modified starch has been used to modulate the intestinal/colon-specific or controlled systemic delivery of oral small molecule drugs and macromolecular therapeutics. This review highlights synthesis aspects of starch and starch derivatives, and their outcomes and challenges of applications in oral drug delivery.

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.

Synthesis of controlled-size starch nanoparticles and superparamagnetic starch nanocomposites by microemulsion method

In this study, a synthesis process based on the microemulsion method (ME) was developed with the aim to produce controlled-size starch nanoparticles (SNPs). Several formulations were tested for the preparation of the W/O microemulsions varying the organic/aqueous phase ratios and co-stabilizers concentrations. SNPs were characterized in terms of size, morphology, monodispersity and crystallinity. Spherical shape particles with mean sizes 30-40 nm were prepared. The method was then used to simultaneously synthesize SNPs and iron oxide nanoparticles with superparamagnetic properties. Starch-based nanocomposites with superparamagnetic properties and controlled size were obtained. Therefore, the microemulsion method developed could be considered an innovative technology for the design and development of novel functional nanomaterials. The starch-based nanocomposites were evaluated in terms of morphology and magnetic properties, and they are being considered as promising sustainable nanomaterials for different biomedical applications.

Effect of Acyl Chain Length on Hydrophobized Cashew Gum Self-Assembling Nanoparticles: Colloidal Properties and Amphotericin B Delivery

Given its many potential applications, cashew gum hydrophobic derivatives have gained increasing attraction in recent years. We report here the effect of acyl chain length on hydrophobized cashew gum derivatives, using acetic, propionic, and butyric anhydrides on self-assembly nanoparticle properties and amphotericin B delivery. Nanoparticles with unimodal particle size distribution, highly negative zeta potential, and low PDI were produced. Butyrate cashew gum nanoparticles presented smaller size (<~100 nm) than acetylated and propionate cashew gum nanoparticles and no cytotoxicity in murine fibroblast cells was observed up to 100 µg/mL for loaded and unloaded nanoparticles. As a proof of concept of the potential use of the developed nanoparticle as a drug carrier formulation, amphotericin B (AmB) was encapsulated and fully characterized in their physicochemical, AmB association and release, stability, and biological aspects. They exhibited average hydrodynamic diameter lower than ~200 nm, high AmB efficiency encapsulations (up to 94.9%), and controlled release. A decrease in AmB release with the increasing of the anhydride chain length was observed, which explains the differences in antifungal activity against Candida albicans strains. An excellent storage colloidal stability was observed for unloaded and loaded AmB without use of surfactant. Considering the AmB delivery, the acyl derivative with low chain length is shown to be the best one, as it has high drug loading and AmB release, as well as low minimum inhibitory concentration against Candida albicans strains.

Dual-modified starch micelles as a promising nanocarrier for doxorubicin

Natural amphiphilic polymer micelles have garnered considerable research attention as nanocarriers for delivering drugs. The objective of this study was to explore the possibility of applying biocompatible dual-modified starch micelles as drug delivery vehicles. To this end, a dual-modified corn starch polymer (SCD) was synthesized with zwitterionic sulfobetaine and deoxycholic acid; spherical micelles with an average particle size of ~200 nm were prepared through the self-assembly of SCD. The effects of dual modification on the degree of substitution, molecular structure, and functional properties of SCD were investigated. Further, doxorubicin was successfully incorporated into the micelles, and an in vitro drug release study was performed to confirm that the drug-loaded micelles displayed pH-sensitive properties with controlled and sustained release. The dissolve-diffuse-erosion-degradation release process was described according to the dynamic models of drug release for SCD micelles. The results can be used as reference information for further studies in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical domains.

Light driven Aspergillus niger-ZnS nanobiohybrids for degradation of methyl orange

Inorganic-microbial hybrid systems have potential to be sustainable, efficient and versatile chemical synthesis platforms by integrating the light-harvesting properties of semiconductors with microbial cells. Here, we demonstrate light-driven photocatalytic semiconducting Aspergillus niger cells-ZnS nanoparticles for enhanced removal of the dye methyl orange. Chemically synthesized ZnS nanoparticles exhibited a zinc blende pattern in X-ray diffraction, had a dimension of 20-90 nm with a band gap (E_bg) of 3.4 eV at 1.83 × 10¹⁸ photons/second. Biologically synthesized ZnS nanoparticles of 40-90 nm showed a hexagonal pattern in the X-ray powder diffraction spectra with an E_bg 3.7 eV at 1.68 × 10¹⁸ photons/second. At a methyl orange (MO) concentration of 100 mg/L, dosage of 0.5 × 10⁵ mol catalyst and pH 4, a 97.5% and 98% removal efficiency of MO was achieved in 90 min and 60 min for, respectively, chemically and biologically synthesized ZnS nanobiohybrids in the presence of UV-A light. The major degradation products of photocatalysis for chemically synthesized ZnS nanobiohybrids were naphtholate (C₁₀H₇O m/z 143) and hydroquinone (C₉H₅m/z 113). For the biologically synthesized ZnS nanobiohybrids, the degradation products were hydroquinone (C₉H₅m/z 113) and 2-phenylphenol (C₁₂H₁₀O m/z 170).

Biodegradable Nanoparticles Loaded with Levodopa and Curcumin for Treatment of Parkinson's Disease

Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common age-related neurodegenerative disorder. Levodopa (L-DOPA) remains the gold-standard drug available for treating PD. Curcumin has many pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-amyloid, and antitumor properties. Copolymers composed of Poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO) and biodegradable polyesters such as Poly (ε-caprolactone) (PCL) can self-assemble into nanoparticles (NPs). This study describes the development of NH₂–PEO–PCL diblock copolymer positively charged and modified by adding glutathione (GSH) on the outer surface, resulting in a synergistic delivery of L-DOPA curcumin that would be able to pass the blood–brain barrier. Methods: The NH₂–PEO–PCL NPs suspensions were prepared by using a nanoprecipitation and solvent displacement method and coated with GSH. NPs were submitted to characterization assays. In order to ensure the bioavailability, Vero and PC12 cells were treated with various concentrations of the loaded and unloaded NPs to observe cytotoxicity. Results: NPs have successfully loaded L-DOPA and curcumin and were stable after freeze-drying, indicating advancing into in vitro toxicity testing. Vero and PC12 cells that were treated up to 72 h with various concentrations of L-DOPA and curcumin-loaded NP maintained high viability percentage, indicating that the NPs are biocompatible. Conclusions: NPs consisting of NH₂–PEO–PCL were characterized as potential formulations for brain delivery of L-DOPA and curcumin. The results also indicate that the developed biodegradable nanomicelles that were blood compatible presented low cytotoxicity.

Effects of acid-ethanol hydrolysis and debranch on acetylated starch and its potential used for curcumin carrier

Acetylated acid-ethanol hydrolyzed (AHS) and acetylated debranched starch (ADS) were investigated as prospective nanocarriers. Both acid-ethanol hydrolysis and debranching decreased the molecular weight and viscosity of starch. Acid-ethanol hydrolyzed starch remained the original microstructure, which was confirmed by results of scanning electron microscopy. New absorption peaks in FTIR spectra of starch confirmed the occurrence of acetylation. The substitution degree (DS) of ADS could reach up to 1.18, while that of AHS could be improved by increasing the ethanol concentration. The developed nanoparticles showed uniform spherical structure and the size of that approximated 180-260 nm. The critical micelle concentration was 0.049 mg/mL, and the shift in fluorescence spectra confirmed the interaction between starch and curcumin. These results indicate show that high DS of AHS and ADS could be used as a potential carrier for curcumin delivery.

Preparation and characterization of quinoa starch nanoparticles as quercetin carriers

Quinoa starch nanoparticles (QSNPs) prepared by nanoprecipitation method under the optimal condition was developed as a carrier for quercetin. The QSNPs prepared under the optimal condition (90 DMSO/H₂O ratio, 10 ethanol/solvent ratio, and ultrasonic oscillation dispersion mode) had the smallest particle size and polymer dispersity index through full factorial design. Compared with maize starch nanoparticles (MSNPs), QSNPs exhibited a smaller particle size of 166.25 nm and a higher loading capacity of 26.62%. Starch nanoparticles (SNPs) interacted with quercetin through hydrogen bonding. V-type crystal structures of SNPs were disappeared and their crystallinity increased after loading with quercetin. QSNPs was more effective in protecting and prolonging quercetin bioactivity because of their small particle sizes and high loading capacities. This study will be useful for preparing starch-based carrier used to load sensitive bioactive compounds.

Nano-encapsulation of polyphenols in starch nanoparticles: fabrication, characterization and evaluation

Nanoparticles are more promising than microcapsules as drug carriers because they can be absorbed directly by intestinal epithelial cells, significantly increasing the uptake and bioaccessibility of polyphenols.

Synthesis, characteristics, and applications of modified starch nanoparticles: A review

Nowadays, starch nanoparticles (SNPs) are drawing attention to the scientific community due to their versatility and wide range of applications. Although several works have extensively addressed the SNP production routes, not much is discussed about the SNPs modification techniques, as well as the use of modified SNPs in typical and unconventional applications. Here, we focused on the SNP modification strategies and characteristics and performance of the resulting products, as well as their practical applications, while pointing out the main limitations and recommendations. We aim to guide researchers by identifying the next steps in this emerging line of research. SNPs esterification and oxidation are preferred chemical modifications, which result in changes in the functional groups. Moreover, additional polymers are incorporated into the SNP surface through copolymer grafting. Physical modification of starch has demonstrated similar changes in the functional groups without the need for toxic chemicals. Modified SNPs rendered differentiated properties, such as size, shape, crystallinity, hydrophobicity, and Zeta-potential. For multiple applications, tailoring the aforementioned properties is key to the performance of nanoparticle-based systems. However, the number of studies focusing on emerging applications is fairly limited, while their applications as drug delivery systems lack in vivo studies. The main challenges and prospects were discussed.

Alendronate sodium-polymeric nanoparticles display low toxicity in gastric mucosal of rats and Ofcol II cells

The use of bisphosphonates constitutes the gold-standard therapy for the control and treatment of bone diseases. However, its long-term use may lead to gastric problems, which limits the treatment. Thus, this study aimed to formulate a nanostructured system with biodegradable polymers for the controlled release of alendronate sodium. The nanoparticles were characterized, and its gastric toxicity was investigated in rats. The synthesis process proved to be effective for encapsulating alendronate sodium, exhibiting nanoparticles with an average size of 51.02 nm and 98.5% of alendronate sodium incorporation. The release tests demonstrated a controlled release of the drug in 420 min, while the morphological analyzes showed spherical shapes and no apparent roughness. The biological tests demonstrated that the alendronate sodium nanoformulation reversed the gastric lesions, maintaining the normal levels of malondialdehyde and myeloperoxidase. Also, the encapsulated alendronate sodium showed no toxicity in murine osteoblastic cells, even at high concentrations.

Understanding Starch Metabolism in Pea Seeds towards Tailoring Functionality for Value-Added Utilization

Starch is the most abundant storage carbohydrate and a major component in pea seeds, accounting for about 50% of dry seed weight. As a by-product of pea protein processing, current uses for pea starch are limited to low-value, commodity markets. The globally growing demand for pea protein poses a great challenge for the pea fractionation industry to develop new markets for starch valorization. However, there exist gaps in our understanding of the genetic mechanism underlying starch metabolism, and its relationship with physicochemical and functional properties, which is a prerequisite for targeted tailoring functionality and innovative applications of starch. This review outlines the understanding of starch metabolism with a particular focus on peas and highlights the knowledge of pea starch granule structure and its relationship with functional properties, and industrial applications. Using the currently available pea genetics and genomics knowledge and breakthroughs in omics technologies, we discuss the perspectives and possible avenues to advance our understanding of starch metabolism in peas at an unprecedented level, to ultimately enable the molecular design of multi-functional native pea starch and to create value-added utilization.

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.

Manipulation of the internal structure of starch by propionyl treatment and its diverse influence on digestion and in vitro fermentation characteristics

High amylose maize starch (HAMS) and waxy maize starch (WMS) were modified by propionylation and their corresponding physicochemical characteristics, digestion and fermentation properties were studied. The results indicated that two new peaks related to methylene (2.20 ppm) and methyl (0.97 ppm) in the NMR spectrum were formed, indicating the occurrence of propionylation, and this was further confirmed by the formation of a characteristic absorption at 1747 cm^-1 in the FTIR spectrum. The propionylation led the modified starch having a lower electron density contrast between the crystalline and amorphous flakes, resulting in the formation of a more compact structure following the increased degrees of substitution (DS). The propionylated starch also had a higher thermal stability and hydrophobicity. These structural changes increased the content of resistant starch (RS) and reduced the predicted glycemic index. More importantly, the gut microbiota fermentation properties indicated that the propionylation of the starch can not only increase the yield of propionate, but also increase the concentration of total short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). This study highlights a new approach to significantly enhance the RS content in starch, together with an increased SCFA generation capacity.

Nanostarch: Preparation, Modification, and Application in Pickering Emulsions

Nanostarch, as a food-grade Pickering emulsion stabilizer, has attracted wide attention owing to its biodegradability, nontoxicity, small size, and large specific surface area. In this review, the preparation, modification, and application of Pickering emulsions incorporating nanostarch are described. At present, methods for nanostarch preparation mainly include acid hydrolysis, acid hydrolysis combined with other treatments, nanoprecipitation, ultrasonication, ball milling, and cross-linking. Nanostarch is a promising Pickering emulsion stabilizer, and its emulsifying ability of nanostarch is significantly improved by hydrophobic modification. The hydrophobicity, charge, size, and content of nanostarch affect the emulsion stability. Future developments in this area of research include the efficient and environmentally friendly preparation of nanostarch as well as the control of its hydrophobicity via modification. Future studies should focus on the digestibility and storage stability of Pickering emulsions stabilized by nanostarch under different conditions.

Starch chemical modifications applied to drug delivery systems: From fundamentals to FDA-approved raw materials

Starch derivatives are versatile compounds that are widely used in the pharmaceutical industry. This article reviews the advances in the research on hydrophilic and hydrophobic starch derivatives used to develop drug delivery systems over the last ten years, specifically microparticles, nanoparticles, nanocrystals, hydrogels, and scaffolds using these materials. The fundamentals of drug delivery systems, regulatory aspects, and chemical modifications are also discussed, along with the synthesis of starch derivatives via oxidation, etherification, acid hydrolysis, esterification, and cross-linking. The chemical modification of starch as a means to overcome the challenges in obtaining solid dosage forms is also reviewed. In particular, dialdehyde starches are potential derivatives for direct drug attachment; carboxymethyl starches are used for drug encapsulation and release, giving rise to pH-sensitive devices through electrostatic interactions; and starch nanocrystals have high potential as hydrogel fillers to improve mechanical properties and control drug release through hydrophilic interactions. Starch esterification with alginate and acidic drugs could be very useful for site-specific, controlled release. Starch cross-linking with other biopolymers such as xanthan gum is promising for obtaining novel polyelectrolyte hydrogels with improved functional properties. Surface modification of starch nanoparticles by cross-linking and esterification reactions is a potential approach to obtain novel, smart solid dosages.

Synthesis of Starch Nanoparticles and Their Applications for Bioactive Compound Encapsulation

In recent years, starch nanoparticles (SNPs) have attracted growing attention due to their unique properties as a sustainable alternative to common nanomaterials since they are natural, renewable and biodegradable. SNPs can be obtained by the breakdown of starch granules through different techniques which include both physical and chemical methods. The final properties of the SNPs are strongly influenced by the synthesis method used as well as the operational conditions, where a controlled and monodispersed size is crucial for certain bioapplications. SNPs are considered to be a good vehicle to improve the controlled release of many bioactive compounds in different research fields due to their high biocompatibility, potential functionalization, and high surface/volume ratio. Their applications are frequently found in medicine, cosmetics, biotechnology, or the food industry, among others. Both the encapsulation properties as well as the releasing processes of the bioactive compounds are highly influenced by the size of the SNPs. In this review, a general description of the different types of SNPs (whole and hollow) synthesis methods is provided as well as on different techniques for encapsulating bioactive compounds, including direct and indirect methods, with application in several fields. Starches from different botanical sources and different bioactive compounds are compared with respect to the efficacy in vitro and in vivo. Applications and future research trends on SNPs synthesis have been included and discussed.

Pharmaceutical applications of starch nanoparticles: A scoping review

Starch nanoparticles (SNPs) have been applied to different areas of material sciences, especially in pharmaceuticals due to their characteristics such as small particle size, high surface ratio-volume, and biological compatibility. However, in pharmaceutical sciences, there are no records of a scoping review that had extensively mapped all available information about SNPs. A scoping review was performed here by searching electronic databases (Pubmed and Science Direct) to identify studies published previous to June 2020. From 699 total records, 37 matched the criteria for inclusion. The findings showed that SNPs have been used, not only for the development of different active pharmaceutical ingredient delivery systems, but also as an enzyme inhibitor, adsorption, and DNA precipitation agent. In conclusion, by combining different starch sources and methods SNPs show a remarkable diversity in pharmaceutical applications. Future studies should explore SNPs safety and provide information about variables that may affect important properties for this kind of application.

Morphology, crystalline structure and digestibility of debranched starch nanoparticles varying in average degree of polymerization and fabrication methods

The objective of this study is to investigate physicochemical characteristics and digestibility of starch nanoparticles (SNPs) fabricated from debranched cassava starch varying degree of polymerization (DP¯_n) using nanoprecipitation and microemulsion methods. The high DP¯_n starch (HDPS) with DP¯_n > 35 monomers, medium DP¯_n starch (MDPS) with 15 < DP¯_n < 30) and low DP¯_n starch (LDPS) with DP¯_n < 10 were used. The SNPs fabricated from the HDPS were well-dispersed and smaller size, whereas those prepared from the MDPS and LDPS had bigger size and more aggregation. The SNPs produced by the microemulsion method were larger and more aggregated than those by the nanoprecipitation method. All SNPs exhibited the V + B-type X-ray diffraction pattern with higher relative crystallinity and more ordered structure than native starch. The SNPs fabricated from the LDPS also had higher amount of RS with lower blood glucose response in mice than those from the MDPS and HDPS.

Fluticasone propionate-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles with augmented anti-inflammatory activity: optimisation, characterisation and pharmacodynamic evaluation on rats

This work aimed to elaborate an optimised fluticasone propionate (FP)-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) to enhance FP effectiveness for topical inflammatory remediation. The influences of drug amount, lipid, and surfactant ratios, on drug release pattern and stability were investigated utilising Box-Behnken design. Elaboration, characterisation, and pharmacodynamic evaluation in comparison with the marketed formulation (Cutivate® cream, 0.05%w/w FP), were conducted for the optimised SLNs. The optimised SLNs with a size of 248.3 ± 1.89 nm (PDI = 0.275) and -32.4 ± 2.85 mV zeta potential were evidenced good stability physiognomies. The optimised SLNs pre-treated rats exhibited non-significant difference in paw volume from that of the control group and showed a significant reduction in both PGE₂ and TNF-α levels by 51.5 and 61%, respectively, in comparison with the Carrageenan group. The optimised FP-loaded SLNs maximised the efficacy of FP towards inflammation alleviation that increase its potential as efficient implement in inflammatory skin diseases remediation.

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.

Mung bean (Vigna radiata) porous starch for solubility and dissolution enhancement of poorly soluble drug by solid dispersion

In this study, a novel Vigna radiata based porous starch (PS) is prepared by solvent exchange technique and explored as a solubilizer for model drug albendazole (ABZ). PS carrier was investigated for different chemical, functional, and micromeritic properties. Solubilizing potential of PS is evaluated by formulating ABZ-PS solid dispersion (1:0.5-1:2) based tablets (SDT). ABZ-PS solid dispersions were evaluated for micromeritic properties, dissolution studies, and anthelmintic activity. Direct compression suitability and susceptibility of mung bean starch were studied by SeDem diagram, Heckel, and Kawakita analysis respectively. PS had an A-type crystallinity pattern and evinced functional properties similar to other legume starches. PS was determined to be suitable for direct compression (good compressibility index = 5.50). SD (1:2) manifested 36.18 fold and 1.6-3.04 fold improvement in the % dissolution and anthelmintic activity of ABZ respectively. All SD batches (R² = 0.949-0.996) and ABZ (R² = 0.168) followed the Higuchi-matrix release kinetic model. DSC and P-XRD analysis corroborated the amorphous form of ABZ. SDT showed ≈ a 1.90 fold improvement in dissolution rate than the marketed formulation. Conclusively, Vigna radiata PS could be explored as an alternative to reduce the large burden on the established starches.