Characterization and bioavailability of a novel coenzyme Q10 nanoemulsion used as an infant formula supplement

Characterization and functional properties of walnut protein fibrils for enhanced bioaccessibility of CoQ10 and ALA

Emulsion-based delivery systems have garnered significant attention in terms of encapsulation and delivery of the hydrophobic bioactive compounds in recent years. This study investigated the formation of walnut protein fibrils (WPF) through acid-heat treatment for varying durations. Emulsions stabilized by WPF were prepared for the codelivery of CoQ10 and ALA. The emulsifying properties and interfacial distribution characteristics of WPF were compared and the differences in the stability of the emulsions were studied. Prolonged treatment duration resulted in secondary structural alterations, including an increase in β-sheet content (from 39.42 % to 45.87 %). Fibrillation increased protein interfacial adsorption, leading to WPF stabilized emulsions with better storage stability, resilience to environmental stress fluctuations and oxidative stability. In summary, compared to unmodified walnut protein, WPF10 stabilized emulsion already significantly enhanced the bioaccessibility of CoQ10 and ALA. The potential delivery system may facilitate the incorporation of hydrophobic active substances and functional fatty acids into beverage products.

State of the art in pediatric nanomedicines

In recent years, the continuous development of innovative nanopharmaceuticals is expanding their biomedical and clinical applications. Nanomedicines are being revolutionized to circumvent the limitations of unbound therapeutic agents as well as overcome barriers posed by biological interfaces at the cellular, organ, system, and microenvironment levels. In many ways, the use of nanoconfigured delivery systems has eased challenges associated with patient differences, and in our opinion, this forms the foundation for their potential usefulness in developing innovative medicines and diagnostics for special patient populations. Here, we present a comprehensive review of nanomedicines specifically designed and evaluated for disease management in the pediatric population. Typically, the pediatric population has distinguishing needs relative to those of adults majorly because of their constantly growing bodies and age-related physiological changes, which often need specialized drug formulation interventions to provide desirable therapeutic effects and outcomes. Besides, child-centric drug carriers have unique delivery routes, dosing flexibility, organoleptic properties (e.g., taste, flavor), and caregiver requirements that are often not met by traditional formulations and can impact adherence to therapy. Engineering pediatric medicines as nanoconfigured structures can potentially resolve these limitations stemming from traditional drug carriers because of their unique capabilities. Consequently, researchers from different specialties relentlessly and creatively investigate the usefulness of nanomedicines for pediatric disease management as extensively captured in this compilation. Some examples of nanomedicines covered include nanoparticles, liposomes, and nanomicelles for cancer; solid lipid and lipid-based nanostructured carriers for hypertension; self-nanoemulsifying lipid-based systems and niosomes for infections; and nanocapsules for asthma pharmacotherapy.

Application of Nanoparticles in Human Nutrition: A Review

Nanotechnology in human nutrition represents an innovative advance in increasing the bioavailability and efficiency of bioactive compounds. This work delves into the multifaceted dietary contributions of nanoparticles (NPs) and their utilization for improving nutrient absorption and ensuring food safety. NPs exhibit exceptional solubility, a significant surface-to-volume ratio, and diameters ranging from 1 to 100 nm, rendering them invaluable for applications such as tissue engineering and drug delivery, as well as elevating food quality. The encapsulation of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants within NPs introduces an innovative approach to counteract nutritional instabilities and low solubility, promoting human health. Nanoencapsulation methods have included the production of nanocomposites, nanofibers, and nanoemulsions to benefit the delivery of bioactive food compounds. Nutrition-based nanotechnology and nanoceuticals are examined for their economic viability and potential to increase nutrient absorption. Although the advancement of nanotechnology in food demonstrates promising results, some limitations and concerns related to safety and regulation need to be widely discussed in future research. Thus, the potential of nanotechnology could open new paths for applications and significant advances in food, benefiting human nutrition.