7,8-Dihydroxyflavone nano-liposomes decorated by crosslinked and glycosylated lactoferrin: storage stability, antioxidant activity, in vitro release, gastrointestinal digestion and transport in Caco-2 cell monolayers

Intranasal delivery of liposome encapsulated flavonoids ameliorates l-DOPA induced dyskinesia in hemiparkinsonian mice

In the present study, we explored the development of a novel noninvasive liposomal drug delivery material for use in intranasal drug delivery applications in human diseases. We used drug entrapment into liposomal nanoparticle assembly to efficiently deliver the drugs to the nasal mucosa to be delivered to the brain. The naturally occurring flavonoid 7,8-dihydroxyflavone (7,8-DHF) has previously been shown to have beneficial effects in ameliorating Parkinson's disease (PD). We used both naturally occurring 7,8-DHF and the chemically modified form of DHF, the DHF-ME, to be used as a drug candidate for the treatment of PD and l-DOPA induced dyskinesia (LID), which is the debilitating side effect of l-DOPA therapy in PD. The ligand-protein interaction behavior for 7,8-DHF and 6,7-DHF-ME was found to be more effective with molecular docking and molecular stimulation studies of flavonoid compounds with TrkB receptor. Our study showed that 7,8-DHF delivered via intranasal route using a liposomal formulation ameliorated LID in hemiparkinsonian mice model when these mice were chronically administered with l-DOPA, which is the only current medication for relieving the clinical symptoms of PD. The present study also demonstrated that apart from reducing the LID, 7,8-DHF delivery directly to the brain via the intranasal route also corrected some long-term signaling adaptations involving ΔFosB and α Synuclein in the brain of dopamine (DA) depleted animals.

Zein/fucoidan-coated phytol nanoliposome: preparation, characterization, physicochemical stability, in vitro release, and antioxidant activity

BACKGROUND

To improve phytol bioavailability, a novel method of magnetic stirring and high-pressure homogenization (HPH) combination was used to prepare zein/fucoidan-coated phytol nanoliposomes (P-NL-ZF). The characterization, the simulated in vitro digestion, and the antioxidant activity of these phytol nanoliposomes from the different processes have been studied.

RESULTS

Based on the results of dynamic light scattering (DLS) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometer (GC-MS) analysis, P-NL-ZF prepared through the combination of magnetic stirring and HPH exhibited superior encapsulation efficiency at 76.19% and demonstrated exceptional physicochemical stability under a series of conditions, including storage, pH, and ionic in comparison to single method. It was further confirmed that P-NL-ZF by magnetic stirring and HPH displayed a uniform distribution and regular shape through transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis showed that electrostatic interactions and hydrogen bonding were the primary driving forces for the formation of composite nanoliposomes. Additionally, an in vitro digestion study revealed that multilayer composite nanoliposomes displayed significant and favorable slow-release properties (58.21%) under gastrointestinal conditions compared with traditional nanoliposomes (82.36%) and free phytol (89.73%). The assessments of chemical and cell-based antioxidant activities demonstrated that the coating of zein/fucoidan on phytol nanoliposomes resulted in enhanced effectiveness in scavenging activity of ABTS free radical and hydroxyl radical and mitigating oxidative damage to HepG2 cells.

CONCLUSION

Based on our studies, the promising delivery carrier of zein/fucoidan-coated nanoliposomes is contributed to the encapsulation of hydrophobic natural products and enhancement of their biological activity. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Characterization, in vitro elderly digestion, and organoids cell uptake of curcumin-loaded nanoparticles

Curcumin, a bioactive compound, showed versatile in anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer ability, while their biological fate in elderly is unclear. In this study, curcumin-loaded nanoparticles based on octyl succinate hydrate (OSA) starch and sodium caseinate were prepared and the in vitro elderly digestion and absorption fate was investigated. The loading capacity of curcumin-loaded nanoparticles prepared from OSA starch (HI), sodium caseinate (SC) and OSA starch‑sodium caseinate (HS) were all higher than 15%. Curcumin release behavior of the three nanoparticles during in vitro digestion conformed to first-order kinetics. Meanwhile, the transport efficiency of curcumin for HI, SC, and HS increased significantly than the free curcumin (near 1-fold), and the permeability were 1.9, 2.0, and 2.0 times, respectively. The gene expressions of TNF-α, SREBP2 and NPC1L1 in the organoids were enhanced than control group. This study provided scientific reference and guidance for encapsulation of curcumin and digestion and absorption properties in elderly.

Polyphenol-Rich Extracts from Agroindustrial Waste and Byproducts: Results and Perspectives According to the Green Chemistry and Circular Economy

Polyphenols are natural secondary metabolites found in plants endowed with multiple biological activities (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, cardioprotective, and anticancer). In view of these properties, they find many applications and are used as active ingredients in nutraceutical, food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic formulations. In accordance with green chemistry and circular economy strategies, they can also be recovered from agroindustrial waste and reused in various sectors, promoting sustainable processes. This review described structural characteristics, methods for extraction, biological properties, and applications of polyphenolic extracts obtained from two selected plant materials of the Mediterranean area as olive (Olea europaea L.) and pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) based on recent literature, highlighting future research perspectives.

Remarkable Enhancement of Antioxidant Activity of the Ovalbumin-EGCG Conjugate through a Novel Preceding Selective Protection Grafting Strategy

Conventional radical grafting of proteins with catechins consumed the most antioxidant-active hydroxyls during grafting, thus failing to effectively retain antioxidant activity in conjugates. In this study, a novel strategy of selective protection of the most reactive hydroxyls before grafting was developed to preserve the most reactive hydroxyls and effectively retain antioxidant activity in conjugates. Selective protection of the most reactive hydroxyls of (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) was successfully realized in a yield of 87% applying trimethyl orthopropionate and catalytic calcium triflate at 40 °C. The novel ovalbumin (OVA)-EGCG conjugate with 93% grafting ratio was prepared by radical grafting with the selectively protected EGCG and subsequent deprotection. Substantially enhanced antioxidant performance of the novel OVA-EGCG conjugate in liposomes was unveiled with notably reduced curcumin degradation and leakage. The strategy and approaches developed in this study will be valuable to effectively improve the antioxidant activities of protein-catechin grafting conjugates.

Liposomes decorated with β-conglycinin and glycinin: Construction, structure and in vitro digestive stability

Liposomes were modified with different proportions of β-conglycinin (7S) and glycinin (11S) to form Lip-7S and Lip-11S. The morphology, interaction and in vitro simulated digestion of liposomes were studied. The particle size of Lip-7S was smaller than that of Lip-11S. When the values of Lip-7S and Lip-11S were 1:1 and 1:0.75, respectively, the ζ-potential had the maximum absolute value and the dispersion of the system was good. The results of multispectral analysis showed that hydrogen-bond and hydrophobic interaction dominated protein-modified liposomes, the protein structure adsorbed on the surface of liposomes changed, the content of α-helix decreased, and the structure of protein-modified liposomes became denser. The surface hydrophobicity and micropolarity of liposomes decreased with the increase of protein ratio, and tended to be stable after Lip-7S (1:1) and Lip-11S (1:0.75). Differential scanning calorimetry showed that Lip-7S had higher phase transition temperature (≥170.5 °C) and better rigid structure. During simulated digestion, Lip-7S (22.5 %) released less Morin than Lip (40.6 %) and Lip-11S (26.2 %), and effectively delayed the release of FFAs. The environmental stability of liposomes was effectively improved by protein modification, and 7S had better modification effect than 11S. This provides a theoretical basis for 7S and 11S modified liposomes, and also provides a data reference for searching for new materials for stabilization of liposomes.

Characterization of modified starch-based complexes-stabilized linolenic acid emulsions and their enhanced oxidative stability in vitro gastrointestinal digestion

A new approach of fabricating α-linolenic acid emulsions with enhanced oxidative stability in vitro digestion was established, using covalent octenyl succinic anhydride starch (OSAS)-soy protein (SP)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) complexes as emulsifiers. The physicochemical characteristics and surface morphology of emulsions were mainly characterized by rheological measurements, laser scanning microscope (CLSM) and cryo-scanning electron microscopy (Cryo-SEM). Results indicated that emulsions had dense interfacial layers and strong network structures. As a result, the stability and antioxidant ability of emulsions were improved significantly. In addition, the oxidative stability of emulsions in vitro gastrointestinal digestion was explored. Results showed that emulsions could maintain better oxidative stability owing to antioxidant activity of covalent OSAS-SP-EGCG complexes under gastrointestinal conditions. In particular, lipid hydroperoxide and malondialdehyde contents of emulsions prepared by 1:4 complexes were lower than 0.35 mmol/L and 20.5 nmol/mL, respectively, approximately half those of emulsions stabilized by OSAS (0.65 mmol/L and 39.5 nmol/mL). It was indicated that covalent OSAS-SP-EGCG complexes could effectively inhibit α-linolenic acid oxidation in emulsions during vitro gastrointestinal digestion. This work will provide a theoretical basis for the development of α-linolenic acid emulsions, which will help to broaden application of α-linolenic acid in food industry.

Enhancement of liposomal properties of thyme essential oil using lysozyme modification: Physicochemical, storage, and antibacterial properties

Thyme essential oil (TEO) is a natural food antimicrobial agent derived of spice, but suffers from volatility and poor water solubility, which problem can be effectively solved by the encapsulation of liposomes. On this basis, a safe and common natural antibacterial protein, LYZ was used to modify the TEO liposomes (TEO-lips) for gaining better properties. 2.5 mg/mL TEO and 0.05 % LYZ/S100 mass ratio were the best formula for the preparation of LYZ-TEO-lips. After LYZ modification, the particle size and PDI increased, and the zeta potential decreased slightly. The modification of LYZ not only improves the thermal stability of TEO-Lips, weakens the influence of acid and salt ions on liposomes, but also improves the antibacterial properties of TEO-Lips. In brief, LYZ has the potential to improve the overall properties of liposomes and can provide a reference for the development of antimicrobial liposomes.

Impact of dietary plant flavonoids on 7,8-dihydroxyflavone transepithelial transport in human intestinal Caco-2 cells

7,8-dihydroxyflavone (7,8-DHF) is a biologically active flavone with various physiological activities, including neuroprotection, anti-inflammation, and weight loss. Previous studies have found that the efflux protein P-glycoprotein (P-gp) significantly affects the transepithelial transport of 7,8-DHF in the intestine, resulting in its low oral bioavailability. Based on this, in this study, a Caco-2 monolayer cell model was used to investigate 14 dietary plant flavonoids as potential P-gp inhibitors, and their effects on the transepithelial transport and in vitro digestion of 7,8-DHF were explored. The results showed that among the 14 plant flavonoids, hesperetin, epigallocatechin gallate, fisetin, kaempferol, quercetin, and isoorientin increased and the apparent permeability coefficients (P app) of 7,8-DHF at AP → BL direction and lowered P app value at BL → AP direction to varying degrees, reducing the efflux ratio of 7,8-DHF less than 1.5. In particular, kaempferol and quercetin exhibited the best effect on promoting the transepithelial transport of 7,8-DHF, especially when used at molar concentration ratios of 1:1 and 1:2 with 7,8-DHF. This is beneficial for improving the oral bioavailability of 7,8-DHF. Meanwhile, 7,8-DHF was found to maintain structural stability in simulated saliva, gastric juice, and intestinal juice, and its stability was not affected by the coexistence of quercetin and kaempferol. Overall, this study provided a theoretical basis for seeking natural and safe P-gp inhibitors to improve the oral absorption of natural products.

Synthesis and characterization of fucoidan/chitosan-coated nanoliposomes for enhanced stability and oral bioavailability of hydrophilic catechin and hydrophobic juglone

This study aimed to improve the thermodynamic performance of nanoliposomes (NLs) using fucoidan (F) as the second-layer coating biopolymer along with chitosan (CS), to control the delivery and bioavailability of catechin (C) and juglone (J). The stabilized liposomal carrier of F/CS-conjugated JC-NL (F-CS-JC-NL) was developed with optimum concentrations of CS (0.09 wt%) and F (0.10 wt%), with the highest encapsulation efficiency of juglone (95.47%) and catechin (90.88%). Physicochemical characterization revealed that F-CS-JC-NL disclosed improved stability under different pH and ionic strengths, with the maximum juglone/catechin retention under thermal, oxidative and storage conditions. In vitro digestion revealed that NL double-coating (F-CS-JC-NL) significantly reduced compound leakage in the gastrointestinal tract, providing a controlled release and better bioavailability of juglone/catechin compared to CS-JC-NL and JC-NL. Conclusively, this study provides a novel NL-based delivery carrier with enhanced physicochemical stability and controlled release that might have promising use in delivering functional ingredients.

Some Nanocarrier's Properties and Chemical Interaction Mechanisms with Flavones

Flavones such as 7,8-dihydroxyflavone (tropoflavin), 5,6,7-trihydroxyflavone (baicalein), 3',4',5,6-tetrahydroxyflavone (luteolin), 3,3',4',5,5',7-hexahydroxyflavone (myricetin), 4',5,7-trihydroxyflavone (apigenin), and 5,7-dihydroxyflavone (chrysin) are important both for their presence in natural products and for their pharmacological applications. However, due to their chemical characteristics and their metabolic processes, they have low solubility and low bioavailability. Knowledge about the physicochemical properties of nanocarriers and the possible mechanisms of covalent and non-covalent interaction between nanoparticles (NPs) and drugs is essential for the design of nanocarriers to improve the bioavailability of molecules with pharmacological potential, such as tropoflavin, baicalein, luteolin, myricetin, apigenin, and chrysin. The parameters of characterization of some NPs of these flavones, such as size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency (EE), and % release/time, utilized in biomedical applications and the covalent and non-covalent interactions existing between the polymeric NPs and the drug were analyzed. Similarly, the presence of functional groups in the functionalized carbon nanotubes (CNTs), as well as the effect of pH on the % adsorption of flavonoids on functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT-COOH), were analyzed. Non-covalent interaction mechanisms between polymeric NPs and flavones, and covalent interaction mechanisms that could exist between the NPs and the amino and hydroxyl functional groups, are proposed.

Carboxymethyl chitosan coated alpha-linolenic acid nanoliposomes: Preparation, stability and release in vitro and in vivo

Nanoliposome encapsulation combined with carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) surface decoration was employed to improve physicochemical stability and oral bioavailability of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Different nanoliposome systems including ALA-loaded nanoliposomes (ALA-NLs) and CMCS-coated ALA-NLs (CMCS-ALA-NLs) were characterized through dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry. The results showed that CMCS-ALA-NLs had good encapsulation efficiency of 79% and layer formation with nanosized spherical carrier. The physicochemical stability of CMCS-ALA-NLs was better than that of ALA-NLs. CMCS-ALA-NLs were able to regulate the release of ALA in a simulated gastrointestinal environment. In vivo testing found that ALA concentration of CMCS-ALA-NLs had an area under the curve of 1.32, which was 1.28 times higher than that of ALA-NLs and 2 times higher than that of ALA-emulsion. The absorption of ALA was improved by CMCS-ALA-NLs. It suggested that CMCS-coated nanoliposomes should be an available delivery strategy for transporting ALA.

Development of the phage lysin-loaded liposomes as preservatives for live clams

Exogenous applications of phage lysins against Vibrio parahaemolyticus (V. parahaemolyticus) are a challenge due to the gram-negative bacteria outer membrane barrier. This study aimed to improve the antibacterial effect of V. parahaemolyticus phage lysin Lysqdvp001 (Lys), the best-characterized lysin with lytic activity against multiple species of Vibrios, by using liposome delivery. Various kinds of Lys-loaded liposome (Lys-lip) systems were designed and tested. The antibacterial activities of cationic guar gum (CGG) containing liposomes were much higher than the other liposomes, causing >5 log₁₀CFU/mL of reductions of V. parahaemolyticus in buffer and severely damaging the bacterial cell structure. Moreover, some CGG liposome formulations retained high antibacterial effect after both 60-80 °C heat treatments and freeze-drying. Besides, the most stable liposome formulation killed 99 % of V. parahaemolyticus in the seawater with live clams, and its depuration rate against the bacterial contaminated clams also reached 99 %.

The development of novel multifunctional drug system 7,8-DHF@ZIF-8 and its potential application in bone defect healing

Physical exercise has long been considered an essential regulator of bone formation. Recent studies have shown that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is an important cytokine released during physical exercise to promote osteogenic differentiation and facilitate the bone defect healing process. In this study, we developed a multifunctional system 7,8-DHF@ZIF-8, which combines the superior osteogenesis and angiogenesis properties of ZIF-8 and the unique capability of 7,8-DHF to mimic the function of BDNF to compensate for the routine physical exercise missed during the bone defect period. Various material characterizations were performed to confirm the successful synthesis of 7,8-DHF@ZIF-8. Drug release experiments suggested that 7,8-DHF@ZIF-8 could achieve slow diffusive release under physiological conditions within seven days. In vitro cell experiments indicated that low concentrations of ZIF-8 and 7,8-DHF@ZIF-8 could significantly promote the proliferation of MC3T3-E1 cells. Moreover, as proved by RT-QPCR analysis, incorporating 7,8-DHF into ZIF-8 could further enhance osteogenesis and angiogenesis-related gene expression. Therefore, we believe that the multifunctional drug system 7,8-DHF@ZIF-8 should have promising applications to facilitate bone defect healing.

Alginate-Chitosan Coated Nanoliposomes as Effective Delivery Systems for Bamboo Leaf Flavonoids: Characterization, In Vitro Release, Skin Permeation and Anti-Senescence Activity

The use of bamboo leaf flavonoids (BLF) as functional food and cosmetic ingredients is limited by low bioavailability and difficulty in being absorbed by the intestine or skin. The aim of this study was to prepare BLF-loaded alginate-chitosan coated nanoliposomes (AL-CH-BLF-Lip) to overcome these challenges. The nanocarriers were characterized by dynamic light scattering, high performance liquid chromatography, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry. The biological activity was analyzed by in vitro antioxidant activity, transdermal absorption, cytotoxicity and AAPH induced HaCaT cell senescence model. The results showed that the size of nanocarriers ranged from 152.13 to 228.90 nm and had a low polydispersity index (0.25−0.36). Chitosan (CH) and alginate (AL) were successfully coated on BLF-loaded nanoliposomes (BLF-Lip), the encapsulation efficiency of BLF-Lip, BLF-loaded chitosan coated nanoliposomes (CH-BLF-Lip) and AL-CH-BLF-Lip were 71.31%, 78.77% and 82.74%, respectively. In addition, BLF-Lip, CH-BLF-Lip and AL-CH-BLF-Lip showed better in vitro release and free radical scavenging ability compared with naked BLF. In particular, the skin permeability of BLF-Lip, CH-BLF-Lip, and AL-CH-BLF-Lip increased 2.1, 2.4 and 2.9 times after 24 h, respectively. Furthermore, the use of nanoliposomes could significantly improve the anti-senescence activity of BLF (p < 0.01). Conclusively, alginate-chitosan coated nanoliposomes are promising delivery systems for BLF that can be used in functional foods and cosmetics.

Liposome-polymer complex for drug delivery system and vaccine stabilization

Liposomes have been used extensively as micro- and nanocarriers for hydrophobic or hydrophilic molecules. However, conventional liposomes are biodegradable and quickly eliminated, making it difficult to be used for delivery in specific routes, such as the oral and systemic routes. One way to overcome this problem is through complexation with polymers, which is referred to as a liposome complex. The use of polymers can increase the stability of liposome with regard to pH, chemicals, enzymes, and the immune system. In some cases, specific polymers can condition the properties of liposomes to be explicitly used in drug delivery, such as targeted delivery and controlled release. These properties are influenced by the type of polymer, crosslinker, interaction, and bond in the complexation process. Therefore, it is crucial to study and review these parameters for the development of more optimal forms and properties of the liposome complex. This article discusses the use of natural and synthetic polymers, ways of interaction between polymers and liposomes (on the surface, incorporation in lamellar chains, and within liposomes), types of bonds, evaluation standards, and their effects on the stability and pharmacokinetic profile of the liposome complex, drugs, and vaccines. This article concludes that both natural and synthetic polymers can be used in modifying the structure and physicochemical properties of liposomes to specify their use in targeted delivery, controlled release, and stabilizing drugs and vaccines.

Establishment and Characterization of Stable Zein/Glycosylated Lactoferrin Nanoparticles to Enhance the Storage Stability and in vitro Bioaccessibility of 7,8-Dihydroxyflavone

In this work, the lactoferrin (LF) was glycosylated by dextran (molecular weight 10, 40, and 70 kDa, LF 10K, LF 40K, and LF 70K) via Maillard reaction as a stabilizer to establish zein/glycosylated LF nanoparticles and encapsulate 7,8-dihydroxyflavone (7,8-DHF). Three zein/glycosylated LF nanoparticles (79.27–87.24 nm) with low turbidity (<0.220) and polydispersity index (PDI) (<0.230) were successfully established by hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonding. Compared with zein/LF nanoparticles, zein/glycosylated LF nanoparticles further increased stability to ionic strength (0–500 mM NaCl) at low pH conditions. Zein/glycosylated LF nanoparticles had nanoscale spherical shape and glycosylated LF changed surface morphology of zein nanoparticles. Besides, encapsulated 7,8-DHF exhibited an amorphous state inside zein/glycosylated LF nanoparticles. Most importantly, zein/glycosylated LF nanoparticles had good water redispersibility, high encapsulation efficiency (above 98.50%), favorable storage stability, and bioaccessibility for 7,8-DHF, particularly LF 40K. Collectively, the above research provides a theoretical reference for the application of zein-based delivery systems.

Development, Characterization, Stability and Bioaccessibility Improvement of 7,8-Dihydroxyflavone Loaded Zein/Sophorolipid/Polysaccharide Ternary Nanoparticles: Comparison of Sodium Alginate and Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose

In this study, two polysaccharides [sodium alginate (ALG) and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)] were selected to establish zein/sophorolipid/ALG (ALG/S/Z) and zein/sophorolipid/ALG (CMC/S/Z) nanoparticles to encapsulate 7,8-dihydroxyflavone (7,8-DHF), respectively. The results showed that polysaccharide types significantly affected performance of ternary nanoparticles, including CMC/S/Z possessed lower polydispersity index, particle size and turbidity, but higher zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency and loading capacity compared to ALG/S/Z. Compared to zein/sophorolipid nanoparticles (S/Z), both ALG/S/Z and CMC/S/Z had better stability against low pH (pH 3~4) and high ionic strengths (150~200 mM NaCl). Hydrophobic effects, electrostatic interactions and hydrogen bonding were confirmed in ternary nanoparticles fabrication via Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. Circular dichroism revealed that CMC and ALG had no evident impact on secondary structure of zein in S/Z, but changed surface morphology of S/Z as observed by scanning electron microscope. Encapsulated 7,8-DHF exhibited an amorphous state in ternary nanoparticles as detected by X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry. Furthermore, compared to S/Z, ALG/S/Z, and CMC/S/Z remarkably improved the storage stability and bioaccessibility of 7,8-DHF. CMC/S/Z possessed a greater storage stability for 7,8-DHF, however, ALG/S/Z exhibited a better in vitro bioaccessibility of 7,8-DHF. This research provides a theoretical reference for zein-based delivery system application.

Novel Nanoliposome Codelivered DHA and Anthocyanidin: Characterization, In Vitro Infant Digestibility, and Improved Cell Uptake

There are still many challenges in understanding the absorption and transport mechanism of liposomes in the gastrointestinal tract of infants, especially for liposome-coentrapped two or more substances. In this study, novel docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)-anthocyanidin-codelivery liposomes (DA-LPs) were fabricated and characterized, and their digestive and absorptive behaviors were evaluated using the in vitro infant digestive method combined with the Caco-2 cell model. The liposomal bilayer structure remained intact with the particles aggregated in simulated infant gastric fluid, while their phospholipid membrane underwent enzymatic lipolysis under simulated intestinal conditions. Compared to single substance-loaded liposomes (DHA- or anthocyanidin-loaded liposomes), the digested DA-LPs showed better cell viability, higher cellular uptake and membrane fluidity, and lower reactive oxygen species (ROS). It can be concluded that DA-LPs are promising carriers for simultaneously transporting hydrophobic and hydrophilic molecules and may be beneficial for improving nutrient absorption and alleviating intestinal stress oxidation.

Recent Advancements in Polymer/Liposome Assembly for Drug Delivery: From Surface Modifications to Hybrid Vesicles

Liposomes are consolidated and attractive biomimetic nanocarriers widely used in the field of drug delivery. The structural versatility of liposomes has been exploited for the development of various carriers for the topical or systemic delivery of drugs and bioactive molecules, with the possibility of increasing their bioavailability and stability, and modulating and directing their release, while limiting the side effects at the same time. Nevertheless, first-generation vesicles suffer from some limitations including physical instability, short in vivo circulation lifetime, reduced payload, uncontrolled release properties, and low targeting abilities. Therefore, liposome preparation technology soon took advantage of the possibility of improving vesicle performance using both natural and synthetic polymers. Polymers can easily be synthesized in a controlled manner over a wide range of molecular weights and in a low dispersity range. Their properties are widely tunable and therefore allow the low chemical versatility typical of lipids to be overcome. Moreover, depending on their structure, polymers can be used to create a simple covering on the liposome surface or to intercalate in the phospholipid bilayer to give rise to real hybrid structures. This review illustrates the main strategies implemented in the field of polymer/liposome assembly for drug delivery, with a look at the most recent publications without neglecting basic concepts for a simple and complete understanding by the reader.

Biopolymer-liposome hybrid systems for controlled delivery of bioactive compounds: Recent advances

Conventional liposomes still face many challenges associated with the poor physical and chemical stability, considerable loss of encapsulated cargo, lack of stimulus responsiveness, and rapid elimination from blood circulation. Integration of versatile functional biopolymers has emerged as an attractive strategy to overcome the limitation of usage of liposomes. This review comprehensively summarizes the most recent studies (2015-2020) and their challenges aiming at the exploration of biopolymer-liposome hybrid systems, including surface-modified liposomes, biopolymer-incorporated liposomes, guest-in-cyclodextrin-in-liposome, liposome-in-hydrogel, liposome-in-film, and liposome-in-nanofiber. The physicochemical principles and key technical information underlying the combined strategies for the fabrication of polymeric liposomes, the advantages and limitations of each of the systems, and the stabilization mechanisms are discussed through various case studies. Special emphasis is directed toward the synergistic efficiencies of biopolymers and phospholipid bilayers on encapsulation, protection, and controlled delivery of bioactives (e.g., vitamins, carotenoids, phenolics, peptides, and other health-related compounds) for the biomedical, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and functional food applications. The major challenges, opportunities, and possible further developments for future studies are also highlighted.

Advancements in liposome technology: Preparation techniques and applications in food, functional foods, and bioactive delivery: A review

Liposomes play a significant role in encapsulation of various bioactive compounds (BACs), including functional food ingredients to improve the stability of core. This technology can be used for promoting an effective application in functional food and nutraceuticals. Incorporation of traditional and emerging methods for the developments of liposome for loading BACs resulted in viable and stable liposome formulations for industrial applications. Thus, the advance technologies such as supercritical fluidic methods, microfluidization, ultrasonication with traditional methods are revisited. Liposomes loaded with plant and animal BACs have been introduced for functional food and nutraceutical applications. In general, application of liposome systems improves stability, delivery, and bioavailability of BACs in functional food systems and nutraceuticals. This review covers the current techniques and methodologies developed and practiced in liposomal preparation and application in functional foods.

Critical Review of Lipid-Based Nanoparticles as Carriers of Neuroprotective Drugs and Extracts

The biggest obstacle to the treatment of diseases that affect the central nervous system (CNS) is the passage of drugs across the blood-brain barrier (BBB), a physical barrier that regulates the entry of substances into the brain and ensures the homeostasis of the CNS. This review summarizes current research on lipid-based nanoparticles for the nanoencapsulation of neuroprotective compounds. A survey of studies on nanoemulsions (NEs), nanoliposomes/nanophytosomes and solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs)/nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) was carried out and is discussed herein, with particular emphasis upon their unique characteristics, the most important parameters influencing the formulation of each one, and examples of neuroprotective compounds/extracts nanoencapsulated using these nanoparticles. Gastrointestinal absorption is also discussed, as it may pose some obstacles for the absorption of free and nanoencapsulated neuroprotective compounds into the bloodstream, consequently hampering drug concentration in the brain. The transport mechanisms through which compounds or nanoparticles may cross BBB into the brain parenchyma, and the potential to increase drug bioavailability, are also discussed. Additionally, factors contributing to BBB disruption and neurodegeneration are described. Finally, the advantages of, and obstacles to, conventional and unconventional routes of administration to deliver nanoencapsulated neuroprotective drugs to the brain are also discussed, taking into account the avoidance of first-pass metabolism, onset of action, ability to bypass the BBB and concentration of the drug in the brain.

Encapsulation of oyster protein hydrolysates in nanoliposomes: Vesicle characteristics, storage stability, in vitro release, and gastrointestinal digestion

In this study, oyster protein hydrolysates (OPH) were obtained from oyster meat by hydrolysis using animal complex proteases and then encapsulated in nanoliposomes. The physicochemical properties, stability, and digestive characteristics of OPH-loaded nanoliposomes were evaluated. The average size and zeta potential ranged from 95.64 to 102.39 nm and from -47.36 to -36.43 mV, respectively. Liposomes containing 4 mg/mL OPH had the highest encapsulation efficiency (74.53%). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis showed that effective ionic complexation and hydrogen bonding existed between phospholipid and peptides. The liposomes exhibited the highest stability when stored at 4 °C. Liposomal encapsulation may protect the antioxidant peptides in OPH during storage and simulated digestion. The nanoliposomes were not hydrolyzed and the structural integrity was maintained in gastric digestion, but exhibited lower stability in the intestinal phase. A prolonged release of OPH from nanoliposomes was also observed as compared with free OPH. Liposome containing protein hydrolysates may be used as a formula in functional foods. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: This study provides some useful information on the application of oyster protein hydrolysates or peptides in functional foods. The incorporation into liposomes may protect the hydrolysates against harsh conditions during storage and digestion, and also prolong the release time.

Insight Into Nanoliposomes as Smart Nanocarriers for Greening the Twenty-First Century Biomedical Settings

The necessity to develop more efficient, biocompatible, patient compliance, and safer treatments in biomedical settings is receiving special attention using nanotechnology as a potential platform to design new drug delivery systems (DDS). Despite the broad range of nanocarrier systems in drug delivery, lack of biocompatibility, poor penetration, low entrapment efficiency, and toxicity are significant challenges that remain to address. Such practices are even more demanding when bioactive agents are intended to be loaded on a nanocarrier system, especially for topical treatment purposes. For the aforesaid reasons, the search for more efficient nano-vesicular systems, such as nanoliposomes, with a high biocompatibility index and controlled releases has increased considerably in the past few decades. Owing to the stratum corneum layer barrier of the skin, the in-practice conventional/conformist drug delivery methods are inefficient, and the effect of the administered therapeutic cues is limited. The current advancement at the nanoscale has transformed the drug delivery sector. Nanoliposomes, as robust nanocarriers, are becoming popular for biomedical applications because of safety, patient compliance, and quick action. Herein, we reviewed state-of-the-art nanoliposomes as a smart and sophisticated drug delivery approach. Following a brief introduction, the drug delivery mechanism of nanoliposomes is discussed with suitable examples for the treatment of numerous diseases with a brief emphasis on fungal infections. The latter half of the work is focused on the applied perspective and clinical translation of nanoliposomes. Furthermore, a detailed overview of clinical applications and future perspectives has been included in this review.

Recent Progress in Bioconjugation Strategies for Liposome-Mediated Drug Delivery

In nanoparticle (NP)-mediated drug delivery, liposomes are the most widely used drug carrier, and the only NP system currently approved by the FDA for clinical use, owing to their advantageous physicochemical properties and excellent biocompatibility. Recent advances in liposome technology have been focused on bioconjugation strategies to improve drug loading, targeting, and overall efficacy. In this review, we highlight recent literature reports (covering the last five years) focused on bioconjugation strategies for the enhancement of liposome-mediated drug delivery. These advances encompass the improvement of drug loading/incorporation and the specific targeting of liposomes to the site of interest/drug action. We conclude with a section highlighting the role of bioconjugation strategies in liposome systems currently being evaluated for clinical use and a forward-looking discussion of the field of liposomal drug delivery.

Formation, structural characterization, stability and in vitro bioaccessibility of 7,8-dihydroxyflavone loaded zein-/sophorolipid composite nanoparticles: effect of sophorolipid under two blending sequences

Anti-solvent co-precipitation (ASCP) is the most commonly used method of fabricating food-grade nanoparticles, while the impact of the blending sequence on the formation of nanoparticles lacks research. In this study, 7,8-dihydroxyflavone (7,8-DHF) loaded zein-/sophorolipid nanoparticles with two blending sequences (DHF-Z-S and DHF-Z/S) were successfully fabricated by the ASCP method and used to improve the storage stability and the in vitro bioaccessibility of 7,8-DHF. The results showed that blending sequences significantly affect the physicochemical properties of nanoparticles. DHF-Z-S nanoparticles had smaller particle size, lower polydispersity index and turbidity, and higher negative charge, entrapment efficiency and loading capacity compared to DHF-Z/S nanoparticles. Transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy revealed that DHF-Z-S and DHF-Z/S nanoparticles have core-shell spherical shape at the nanoscale and sophorolipid changed the surface morphology of zein nanoparticles. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and fluorescence spectrum analysis confirmed the presence of effective hydrogen bonding, electrostatic interactions and hydrophobic effects between 7,8-DHF, zein and sophorolipid and the presence of stronger hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic effects in DHF-Z-S nanoparticles. The encapsulated 7,8-DHF was in an amorphous state rather than a crystalline form as determined by X-ray diffraction analysis. Circular dichroism revealed that 7,8-DHF and sophorolipid were capable of changing the secondary structure of zein remarkably. More importantly, compared to DHF-Z/S nanoparticles, the DHF-Z-S nanoparticles possessed higher storage stability and in vitro bioaccessibility. Collectively, DHF-Z-S nanoparticles developed in this study might be a promising means of encapsulating, protecting and delivering hydrophobic nutraceuticals for applications in functional foods.