Production, Characterization, and Stability of Orange or Eucalyptus Essential Oil/β-Cyclodextrin Inclusion Complex

Synthesis and application of gelatin-based controlled-release antibacterial films containing oregano essential oil/β-cyclodextrin microcapsules for chilling preservation of grass carp fillets

This work aimed to synthesize oregano essential oil/β-cyclodextrin microcapsules (OEO/β-CDs) and then prepare gelatin-based controlled-release antibacterial films with different OEO/β-CDs contents (0%-2%) for chilling preservation of grass carp fillets. The results of FTIR, XRD, DSC and accelerated release ratio showed that OEO was successfully encapsulated in OEO/β-CDs and its thermal stability was effectively improved. Moreover, at 2% of addition amount of OEO/β-CDs, the tensile strength of the films increased from 14.43 MPa to 18.72 MPa. In addition, the films showed significant antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas (61.52%), Aeromonas (62.87%), and Shewanella putrefaciens (66.67%). Preservation experiments showed that the films effectively prevented the increase of TVB-N, and TBA value of the refrigerated fillets and significantly suppressed the growth of spoilage organisms, thus extending the shelf life by 2-3 days. Therefore, the synthesized film has promising potential as an active packaging material for the preservation of grass carp.

Incorporation of Inclusion Complexes in the Dissolvable Microneedle Ocular Patch System for the Efficiency of Fluconazole in the Therapy of Fungal Keratitis

Fluconazole (FNL) is one of the first-line treatments for fungal keratitis as it is an effective broad-spectrum antimicrobial commonly administered orally or topically. However, FNL has a very low water solubility, limiting its drug formulation, therapeutic application, and bioavailability through tissues. To overcome these limitations, this study aimed to develop FNL inclusion complexes (FNL-IC) with cyclodextrin (α-cyclodextrin, sulfobutylether-β-cyclodextrin, and hydroxypropyl-γ cyclodextrin) and incorporate it into a dissolvable microneedle (DMN) system to improve solubility and drug penetration. FNL-IC was evaluated for saturation solubility, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, in vitro release, minimum inhibitory concentration, minimum fungicidal concentration, and time-killing assay. DMN-FNL-IC was evaluated for mechanical and insertion properties, surface pH, moisture absorption ability, water vapor transmission, and drug content recovery. Moreover, ocular kinetic, ex vivo antimicrobial, in vivo antifungal, and chorioallantoic membrane (HET-CAM) assays were conducted to assess the overall performance of the formulation. Mechanical strength and insertion properties revealed that DMN-FNL-IC has great mechanical and insertion properties. The in vitro release of FNL-IC was significantly improved, exhibiting a 9-fold increase compared to pure FNL. The ex vivo antifungal activity showed significant inhibition of Candida albicans from 6.54 to 0.73 log cfu/mL or 100-0.94%. In vivo numbers of colonies of 0.87 ± 0.13 log cfu/mL (F2), 4.76 ± 0.26 log cfu/mL (FNL eye drops), 3.89 ± 0.24 log cfu/mL (FNL ointments), and 8.04 ± 0.58 log cfu/mL (control) showed the effectiveness of DMN preparations against other standard commercial preparations. The HET-CAM assay showed that DMN-FNL-IC (F2) did not show any vascular damage. Finally, a combination of FNL-IC and DMN was developed appropriately for ocular delivery of FNL, which was safe and increased the effectiveness of treatments for fungal keratitis.

Rutin/Sulfobutylether-β-Cyclodextrin as a Promising Therapeutic Formulation for Ocular Infection

Ocular pathologies present significant challenges to achieving effective therapeutic results due to various anatomical and physiological barriers. Natural products such as flavonoids, alone or in association with allopathic drugs, present many therapeutic actions including anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial action. However, their clinical employment is challenging for scientists due to their low water solubility. In this study, we designed a liquid formulation based on rutin/sulfobutylether-β-cyclodextrin (RTN/SBE-β-CD) inclusion complex for treating ocular infections. The correct stoichiometry and the accurate binding constant were determined by employing SupraFit software (2.5.120) in the UV-vis titration experiment. A deep physical-chemical characterization of the RTN/SBE-β-CD inclusion complex was also performed; it confirmed the predominant formation of a stable complex (Kc, 9660 M-1) in a 1:1 molar ratio, with high water solubility that was 20 times (2.5 mg/mL) higher than the free molecule (0.125 mg/mL), permitting the dissolution of the solid complex within 30 min. NMR studies revealed the involvement of the bicyclic flavonoid moiety in the complexation, which was also confirmed by molecular modeling studies. In vitro, the antibacterial and antibiofilm activity of the formulation was assayed against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains. The results demonstrated a significant activity of the formulation than that of the free molecules.

New insights into the influence of encapsulation materials on the feasibility of ultrasonic-assisted encapsulation of Mosla chinensis essential oil

The study aimed to estimate the feasibility of α-cyclodextrin (α-CD), β-cyclodextrin (β-CD), and γ-cyclodextrin (γ-CD) to encapsulate Mosla chinensis essential oil (EO) by ultrasonic-assisted method. The physical properties variations, stabilization mechanisms, and formation processes of the inclusion complexes (ICs) were investigated using experimental methods, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. Scanning electron microscopy, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry showed that the ICs were successfully prepared, which differentially improved the thermal stability and retained the chemical composition of EO. The dissolution profile showed that the Peppas model can be used to describe the diffuse release mechanism of EO. Finally, molecular docking and MD simulation theoretically confirmed the interaction and conformational changes of carvacrol (the main active component of Mosla chinensis EO) inside the cavity of CDs. The results indicate that hydrogen bonding was the primary driving force for the carvacrol spontaneous access to the cavity. Further, a binding dynamic balance occurs between carvacrol and β-CD, whereas a bind and away dynamic balance occurs in the IC between carvacrol and α-CD, γ-CD. The comprehensive results show that the medium cavity size of β-CD is a suitable host molecule for Mosla chinensis EO of encapsulation, release, and stabilization. A combination of experimental and theoretical calculations is useful for the pinpoint targeted design and optimization of CD molecular encapsulation of small entity molecules. β-CD was rationally screened as a better candidate for stabilizing EO, which provides an option for a meaningful path to realistic EO applications.

Oleogels based on germinated and non-germinated wheat starches and orange essential oil: Application as a hydrogenated vegetable fat replacement in bread

This study aimed to produce oleogels based on non-germinated and germinated wheat starches with orange essential oil, apply them to replace hydrogenated vegetable fat in bread, and assess the antifungal action. The oleogels were prepared using sunflower oil, wheat starches, beeswax, water, and orange essential oil (OEO). They were evaluated to determine the volatile compounds, oil binding capacity, texture profile, storage stability for 20 days, thermogravimetric analysis, and functional groups. The breads were evaluated by their moisture content, specific volume, texture profile, volatile compounds, and microbiological contamination during 15 days of storage. The oleogels showed high storage stability, were fully intact after 20 days of storage, and had a high oil binding capacity (∼100 %). The oleogels with OEO presented increased adhesiveness and reduced hardness compared to the ones without essential oil. The oleogels with OEO based on germinated wheat starch released a high amount of volatile compounds. Substituting saturated vegetable fat with oleogels in bread formulation resulted in decreased hardness and maintained specific volume. Furthermore, incorporating OEO oleogels in the bread led to reduced growth of total mesophiles and fungi.

Essential Oils in Cervical Cancer: Narrative Review on Current Insights and Future Prospects

Cervical cancer is a prevalent and often devastating disease affecting women worldwide. Traditional treatment modalities such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy have significantly improved survival rates, but they are often accompanied by side effects and challenges that can impact a patient's quality of life. In recent years, the integration of essential oils into the management of cervical cancer has gained attention. This review provides an in-depth exploration of the role of various essential oils in cervical cancer, offering insights into their potential benefits and the existing body of research. The review also delves into future directions and challenges in this emerging field, emphasizing promising research areas and advanced delivery systems. The encapsulation of essential oils with solid lipid nanoparticles, nanoemulsification of essential oils, or the combination of essential oils with conventional treatments showed promising results by increasing the anticancer properties of essential oils. As the use of essential oils in cervical cancer treatment or management evolves, this review aims to provide a comprehensive perspective, balancing the potential of these natural remedies with the challenges and considerations that need to be addressed.

Production of perillic acid from orange essential oil by Yarrowia lipolytica using a top-aerated bioreactor

R-(+)-Perillic acid, a promising anticancer and immunomodulatory agent, is the major product from the biotransformation of R-(+)-limonene-rich orange essential oil by the yeast Yarrowia lipolytica. Due to the abundance and low cost of orange essential oil, which is a byproduct of the citrus industry, we attempted to improve the biotransformation process by optimizing yeast cell mass production. Then, the whole process was transposed and adapted to a 2-L instrumented bioreactor. Cell mass production was optimized in shaker flasks using a statistical experimental design. The optimized medium (g·L-1: 22.9 glucose, 7.7 peptone, 4.1 yeast extract and 1.0 malt extract) resulted in a 13.0 g·L-1 final cell concentration and 0.18 g cell·L-1·h-1 productivity. A further increase to 18.0 g·L-1 was achieved in a 2-L bioreactor upon fed-batch culture. High-purity limonene bioconversion was performed in the same bioreactor utilizing top aeration to diminish terpene volatilization; as a result, 839.6 mg·L-1 perillic acid accumulated after 48 h. Under the same conditions, industrial orange essential oil afforded 806.4 mg·L-1 perillic acid. The yeast growth medium optimization resulted in a twofold increase in biomass accumulation and a reduction in growth medium nitrogen sources, which lowered the catalytic biomass production cost. Compared with conventional bottom aeration, the bioreactor top aeration strategy resulted in higher bioconversion rates. The conditions developed for high-purity limonene bioconversion were successfully applied to low-cost orange essential oil, showing the robustness of Y. lipolytica yeast.

Atractylone in the Atractylodes macrocephala Rhizoma Essential Oil and Its Anti-Inflammatory Activity

The aim of this study was to conduct a screening of potential therapeutic compounds found in the Atractylodes macrocephala rhizoma essential oil (AO) and explore its mechanism of action in the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC). An inflammation cell model was employed in conjunction with phospho-antibody array technology to explore potential therapeutic compounds of AO and their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Furthermore, we assessed their efficacy and mechanisms of action in treating dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in mice. Via the screening process, we identified atractylone (ATR) as the primary active compound in AO. It has been demonstrated that ATR can both decrease the levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and reactive oxygen species (ROS) and increase the expression of adhesion proteins such as claudin, ZO-1, and occludin in vitro. Moreover, ATR has been shown to improve UC symptoms in vivo. Via a non-targeted metabolomics analysis of colon tissue, we identified 57 distinct metabolites that responded to ATR treatment. Subsequent analysis of the metabolic pathways revealed that the action of ATR was primarily focused on the amino acid metabolism pathway. In summary, ATR may alleviate the symptoms of UC by regulating multiple signaling pathways. Additionally, ATR has a comprehensive function in anti-inflammation, antioxidative stress, and intestinal injury reduction.

Characterization, Thermal Stability and Antimicrobial Evaluation of the Inclusion Complex of Litsea cubeba Essential Oil in Large-Ring Cyclodextrins (CD9-CD22)

Food safety issues are becoming increasingly important as a result of contamination with foodborne pathogenic bacteria. Plant essential oil is a safe and non-toxic natural antibacterial agent that can be used to develop antimicrobial active packaging materials. However, most essential oils are volatile and require protection. In the present study, LCEO and LRCD were microencapsulated through coprecipitation. The complex was investigated using GC-MS, TGA, and FT-IR spectroscopy. According to the experimental results, it was found that LCEO entered the inner cavity of the LRCD molecule and formed a complex with LRCD. LCEO had a significant and broad-spectrum antimicrobial effect against all five microorganisms tested. At 50 °C, the microbial diameter of the essential oil and its microcapsules showed the least change, indicating that this essential oil has high antimicrobial activity. In research on microcapsule release, LRCD has proven to be a perfect wall material for controlling the delayed release of essential oil and extending the duration of antimicrobial activity. LRCD effectively extends antimicrobial duration by encasing LCEO, thus improving its heat stability and antimicrobial activity. The results presented here indicate that LCEO/LRCD microcapsules can be further utilized in the food packaging industry.

Fabrication of a Polysaccharide-Protein/Protein Complex Stabilized Oral Nanoemulsion to Facilitate the Therapeutic Effects of 1,8-Cineole on Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis (AS) is a systemic disease characterized by lipid deposition in the blood vessel wall that urgently requires effective and safe therapeutic drugs for long-term treatment. An essential oil monomer-1,8-cineole (CIN) with ameliorative effects on vascular injuries has considerable potential for preventing the progression of AS because of its antioxidant, anti-inflammation, and cholesterol regulatory effects. However, the high volatility and instability of CIN result in low oral bioavailability and a short half-life, thereby limiting its clinical application. We formulated a nanoemulsion using a polysaccharide-protein/protein complex (dextran-bovine serum albumin/protamine, DEX_5k-BSA/PTM) as an emulsifier, with vitamin B12 (VB₁₂) as the ligand to facilitate the transportation across the small intestine. An emulsion preparation method using a microjet followed by ultraviolet irradiation was developed to obtain the CIN-loaded oral nanoemulsion CIN@DEX_5k-BSA/PTM/VB₁₂. The nanoemulsion improved the stability of CIN both in vitro and in vivo, prolonged the retention time in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), and enhanced the permeability across the mucus layer and intestinal epithelial cells to increase oral bioavailability and plaque accumulation of CIN. Validated in an AS mouse model, CIN@DEX_5k-BSA/PTM/VB₁₂ achieved prominent therapeutic efficacy combating AS. This study highlights the advantages of DEX_5k-BSA/PTM and VB₁₂ in the development of nanoemulsions for CIN and provides a promising oral nanoplatform for the delivery of essential oils.

Designing starch derivatives with desired structures and functional properties via rearrangements of glycosidic linkages by starch-active transglycosylases

Modification of starch by transglycosylases from glycoside hydrolase families has attracted much attention recently; these enzymes can produce starch derivatives with novel properties, i.e. processability and functionality, employing highly efficient and safe methods. Starch-active transglycosylases cleave starches and transfer linear fragments to acceptors introducing α-1,4 and/or linear/branched α-1,6 glucosidic linkages, resulting in starch derivatives with excellent properties such as complexing and resistance to digestion characteristics, and also may be endowed with new properties such as thermo-reversible gel formation. This review summarizes the effects of variations in glycosidic linkage composition on structure and properties of modified starches. Starch-active transglycosylases are classified into 4 groups that form compounds: (1) in cyclic with α-1,4 glucosidic linkages, (2) with linear chains of α-1,4 glucosidic linkages, (3) with branched α-1,6 glucosidic linkages, and (4) with linear chains of α-1,6 glucosidic linkages. We discuss potential processability and functionality of starch derivatives with different linkage combinations and structures. The changes in properties caused by rearrangements of glycosidic linkages provide guidance for design of starch derivatives with desired structures and properties, which promotes the development of new starch products and starch processing for the food industry.

A comprehensive approach to chitosan-gelatine edible coating with β-cyclodextrin/lemongrass essential oil inclusion complex - Characterization and food application

Biopolymer-based films present an ideal matrix for the incorporation of active substances such as antimicrobial agents, giving active packaging a framework of green chemistry and a step forward in food packaging technology. The chitosan-gelatine active coating has been prepared using lemongrass oil as an antimicrobial compound applying a different approach. Instead of surfactants, to achieve compatibilization of compounds, β-cyclodextrin was used to encapsulate lemongrass oil. The antimicrobial effect was assessed using the dip-coating method on freshly harvested cherry tomatoes artificially contaminated by Penicillium aurantiogriseum during 20 days of cold storage. According to the evaluation of the antimicrobial effect of coating formulation on cherry tomato samples, which was mathematically assessed by predictive kinetic models and digital imaging, the applied coating formulation was found to be very effective since the development of fungal contamination for active-coated samples was observed for 20 days.

Synthesis, Characterization, and Optimization Studies of Polycaprolactone/Polylactic Acid/Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticle/Orange Essential Oil Membranes for Biomedical Applications

The development of scaffolds for cell regeneration has increased because they must have adequate biocompatibility and mechanical properties to be applied in tissue engineering. In this sense, incorporating nanofillers or essential oils has allowed new architectures to promote cell proliferation and regeneration of new tissue. With this goal, we prepared four membranes based on polylactic acid (PLA), polycaprolactone (PCL), titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂-NPs), and orange essential oil (OEO) by the drop-casting method. The preparation of TiO₂-NPs followed the sol-gel process with spherical morphology and an average size of 13.39 nm ± 2.28 nm. The results show how the TiO₂-NP properties predominate over the crystallization processes, reflected in the decreasing crystallinity percentage from 5.2% to 0.6% in the membranes. On the other hand, when OEO and TiO₂-NPs are introduced into a membrane, they act synergistically due to the inclusion of highly conjugated thermostable molecules and the thermal properties of TiO₂-NPs. Finally, incorporating OEO and TiO₂-NPs promotes tissue regeneration due to the decrease in inflammatory infiltrate and the appearance of connective tissue. These results demonstrate the great potential for biomedical applications of the membranes prepared.

Polycaprolactone (PCL)-Polylactic Acid (PLA)-Glycerol (Gly) Composites Incorporated with Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) and Tea Tree Essential Oil (TTEO) for Tissue Engineering Applications

The search for new biocompatible materials that can replace invasive materials in biomedical applications has increased due to the great demand derived from accidents and diseases such as cancer in various tissues. In this sense, four formulations based on polycaprolactone (PCL) and polylactic acid (PLA) incorporated with zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) and tea tree essential oil (TTEO) were prepared. The sol-gel method was used for zinc oxide nanoparticle synthesis with an average size of 11 ± 2 nm and spherical morphology. On the other hand, Fourier Transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) showed characteristic functional groups for each composite component. The TTEO incorporation in the formulations was related to the increased intensity of the C-O-C band. The thermal properties of the materials show that the degradative properties of the ZnO-NPs decrease the thermal stability. The morphological study by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed that the presence of TTEO and ZnO-NPs act synergistically, obtaining smooth surfaces, whereas membranes with the presence of ZnO-NPs or TTEO only show porous morphologies. Histological implantation of the membranes showed biocompatibility and biodegradability after 60 days of implantation. This degradation occurs through the fragmentation of the larger particles with the presence of connective tissue constituted by type III collagen fibers, blood vessels, and inflammatory cells, where the process of resorption of the implanted material continues.

The aphrodisiac potential of β-cyclodextrin-curcumin via stimulating cAMP-PKA pathway in testicular Leydig cells

The water-soluble β-cyclodextrin–curcumin (CDC) is used in pharmaceutical applications and as a natural food colorant. The previous study revealed that curcumin potentially impacted the reproductive system. The present study investigated the possible roles of the CDC in testosterone secretion in Leydig cells and mice. Primary Leydig cells were treated with the CDC to determine their effect on cell proliferation, testosterone levels, the protein and mRNA expression of the transcription factor, and steroidogenic enzymes. Our data showed that CDC stimulated testosterone production via upregulating transcription factor steroidogenic factor-1 (NR5A1), cAMP-response element-binding protein (CREB), and steroidogenic enzymes steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme (CYP11A1), 17-alpha-hydroxylase/17,20-lyase (CYP17A1), 3β-/17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (3β/17β-HSD, HSD3b1/HSD17b1). CDC could significantly stimulate H89-suppressed StAR and CREB expression but not reverse melatonin-suppressed StAR expression. We further detected the hormonal activity with transgenic yeast, and CDC showed potential androgenic antagonistic activity. Meanwhile, we investigated its aphrodisiac effect on hydrocortisone-induced mice. Exposure to hydrocortisone decreased the mating ability, reproductive organs, and testosterone level and disrupted testicular histology. However, all of these effects were significantly improved by CDC treatment. In conclusion, these results indicated that mechanisms of CDC in stimulating testosterone production involve upregulating the cAMP-PKA pathway.

Preparation, Optimization, and Characterization of Inclusion Complexes of Cinnamomum longepaniculatum Essential Oil in β-Cyclodextrin

Cinnamomum longepaniculatum essential oil (CLEO) possesses antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities. However, CLEO shows volatilization and poor solubility, which limits its application field. In this research, inclusion complexes of β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) with CLEO were produced, and its physicochemical properties were characterized. Response surface methodology was used to obtain optimum preparation conditions. A statistical model was generated to define the interactions among the selected variables. Results show that the optimal conditions were an H2O/β-CD ratio of 9.6:1 and a β-CD/CLEO ratio of 8:1, with the stirring temperature of 20 °C for the maximal encapsulation efficiency values. The physicochemical properties of CLEO/β-CD inclusion complexes (CLEO/β-CD-IC) were investigated. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy showed that correlative characteristic bands of CLEO disappeared in the inclusion complex. X-ray diffraction presented different sharp peaks at the diffraction angle of CLEO/β-CD-IC. The thermogravimetric analysis demonstrated the thermal stability of CLEO was enhanced after encapsulation. Tiny aggregates with a smaller size of CLEO/β-CD-IC particles were observed by scanning electron microscopy. The comparison of β-CD, CLEO, and physical mixtures with CLEO/β-CD-IC confirmed the formation of inclusion complexes.

Prevalence of fungi in fresh tomatoes and their control by chitosan and sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) peel essential oil coating

BACKGROUND

Fungal contamination is a major cause of food spoilage. There is an urgent need to find and characterize natural preservatives. This study evaluates the prevalence of fungi in tomatoes and their control by using essential oil (EO) from sweet orange peel. Essential oils were extracted from dried and fresh sweet orange peels by using n-hexane and ethanol as extraction solvents. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analyses were performed to identify the chemical composition of the EO. A combination of chitosan (CS) and EO was used to control the fungal decay of tomatoes inoculated with Aspergillus niger and Penicillium citrinum.

RESULTS

Tomatoes obtained from local markets and supermarkets showed a high prevalence of Aspergillus and Penicillium spp. Essential oils extracted by ethanol from dried peels showed complete inhibition of A. niger and P. citrinum and hyphal degradation at a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 100 μL mL^-1 . The combination of EO with chitosan (2%) as a coating, effectively controlled the fungal decay of tomatoes until the eighth day of storage at 25 °C.

CONCLUSION

Due to their edible nature, and their antifungal and preservative potential, EO- and CS-based coatings can be used to extend the shelf life of tomatoes and other agriculture commodities. Essential oil- and CS-based coating can be used as alternative to synthetic preservatives, which are associated with various health hazards. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Orally Deliverable Dual-Targeted Pellets for the Synergistic Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis

Purpose

The effective treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC) poses substantial challenges, and the aetiopathogenesis of UC is closely related to infectious, immunological and environmental factors. Currently, there is a considerable need for the development of orally bioavailable dosage forms that enable the effective delivery of therapeutic drugs to local diseased lesions in the gastrointestinal tract.

Methods

Berberine (BBR) and Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz (AM) volatile oil, derived from the Chinese herbs Coptis chinensis Franch and Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz, have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities. In this study, we prepared colon-targeted pellets loaded with BBR and stomach-targeted pellets loaded with AM volatile oil for the synergistic treatment of UC. The Box-Behnken design and β-cyclodextrin inclusion technique were used to optimize the enteric coating formula and prepare volatile oil inclusion compounds.

Results

The two types of pellets were spherical and had satisfactory physical properties. The pharmacokinetic results showed that the AUC and MRT values of the dual-targeted (DPs) pellets were higher than those of the control pellets. In addition, in vivo animal imaging confirmed that the DPs could effectively deliver BBR to the colon. Moreover, compared with sulfasalazine and monotherapy, DPs exerted a more significant anti-inflammatory effect by inhibiting the expression of inflammatory factors including IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6, TNF-α and MPO both in serum and tissues and enhancing immunity by decreasing the production of IgA and IgG.

Conclusion

The DPs play a synergistic anti-UC effect by exerting systemic and local anti-inflammatory and provide an effective oral targeted preparation for the treatment of UC.

Impact of encapsulated orange essential oil with β-cyclodextrin on technological, digestibility, sensory properties of wheat cakes as well as Aspergillus flavus spoilage

BACKGROUND

The majority of studies with essential oils in foods focus mainly on improving the shelf life of products; however, the present study goes further and demonstrates not only the effect of essential oil on conservation properties, but also the effect of free and encapsulated orange essential oil (OEO) on the technological, sensorial and digestibility properties of bakery products.

RESULTS

OEO was encapsulated into β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) by inclusion complex formation (β-CD/OEO 97.4% of encapsulation efficiency). OEO demonstrated in vitro antifungal activity against Aspergillus flavus (inhibition zone of 11.33 mm on mycelial growth). In situ antifungal activity against A. flavus confirmed that free OEO can effectively delay the fungal growth, unlike encapsulated OEO. Regarding texture profile and starch digestibility: cake with β-CD/OEO showed lower hardness (31.64 N) and lower starch digestibility (69.10%) than cake with free OEO (44.30 N; 82.10%, respectively) and the addition of OEO (both free and encapsulated) decreased the adhesiveness of the cakes. Cake with free OEO showed a higher intensity of orange aroma, being preferred by 60% of panelists, whereas cake with β-CD/OEO presented a very slight orange taste and aroma.

CONCLUSION

The encapsulation of OEO into β-CD improved the crumb texture of cakes and promoted a lower starch digestibility in the cakes. On the other hand, the encapsulation process was not effective under the conditions tested (OEO concentration and baking temperatures), compromising the action of the OEO as a natural flavoring and preservative agent. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

2-Hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin encapsulates dimethyl disulfide producing a controlled release formulation

Dimethyl disulfide (DMDS), a soil fumigant, is an effective, broad-spectrum compound that often replaces bromomethane (MB) in the prevention and treatment of soil-borne diseases. However, the disadvantages of DMDS include toxicity, volatility, pungent odor, risk of human exposure, and environmental pollution. Cyclodextrin (CD) has been widely used as a carrier of chemicals in many industries due to its functional advantages and safety. In this study, a DMDS-controlled release formulation was developed by encapsulating DMDS in the cavity of 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD). This formulation reduced DMDS usage and production costs. Orthogonal experimental design, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Thermal gravity analysis (TGA) characterization, efficacy comparison, safety, and other aspects of the evaluation showed that under the best preparation conditions, the encapsulation rate was 81.49%. The efficacy of DMDS@HP-β-CD was similar to unformulated DMDS. The efficacy duration of the formulation was about two times longer than DMDS, and it was safer to use. This study reveals a cyclodextrin-DMDS formulation with reduced toxicity, longer duration, environmental safety and sustainability.

Recent developments in extraction and encapsulation techniques of orange essential oil

Orange production is constantly growing. The main orange by-product, the orange peel, is a usable source of essential oils with a lot of health benefits. Because of that, it is important to find the best recovery and encapsulation techniques in order to get the best bioavailability for human and to ensure the highest quality for food applications. Thus, the aim of this work is to summarize the complete process needed to obtain orange essential oil, from the pre-treatments to the encapsulation steps, carried out in the last years. This review is focused on the comparison of new and more innovative techniques in front of the most conventional ones used for extracting and encapsulating the orange essential oil.

Complexation of an Azo Dye by Cyclodextrins: A Potential Strategy for Water Purification

The chemistry of the host-guest complex formation has received much attention as a highly efficient approach for use to develop economical adsorbents for water purification. In the present study, the synthesis of three β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) inclusion complexes with the oil orange SS (OOSS) azo dye as a guest molecule and their potential applications in water purification are described. The complexes were synthesized by the coprecipitation method and characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, UV-vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). FTIR and thermal analyses confirmed the encapsulation of OOSS dye within the hydrophobic cavity of β-CD. The encapsulation of hydrophobic dye inside the β-CD cavity was mainly due to the hydrophobic-hydrophobic interaction. The results showed that the stability of the OOSS dye had been improved after the complexation. The effect of three different compositions of the host-guest complexes was analyzed. The present study demonstrated that the hydrophobic dye could be removed from aqueous solution via inclusion complex formation. Thus, it can play a significant role in removing the highly toxic OOSS dye from the industrial effluent.

Inclusion Complexes of Concentrated Orange Oils and β-Cyclodextrin: Physicochemical and Biological Characterizations

Concentrated orange oils (5x, 10x, 20x) are ingredients used in different industries as components of flavors and aromas due to their great organoleptic qualities. This research focuses on the search for alternative uses for their application through encapsulation in inclusion complexes with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD). Inclusion complexes of concentrated orange oils (COEO) and β-CD were developed by the co-precipitated method in ratios of 4:96, 12:88, and 16:84 (w/w, COEO: β-CD). The best powder recovery was in the ratio 16:84 for the three oils, with values between 82% and 84.8%. The 20x oil in relation 12:88 showed the highest entrapment efficiency (89.5%) with 102.3 mg/g of β-CD. The FT-IR analysis may suggest an interaction between the oil and the β-CD. The best antioxidant activity was observed in the ratio 12:88 for the three oils. The antifungal activity was determined for all the inclusion complexes, and the 10x fraction showed the highest inhibition at a concentration of 10 mg/mL in ratios 12:88 and 16:84. Antibacterial activity was determined by the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and was found at a concentration of 1.25 mg/mL in ratios 12:88 and 16:84 for 5x and 20x oils.

The characterization and evaluation of the synthesis of large-ring cyclodextrins (CD9-CD22) and α-tocopherol with enhanced thermal stability

Large-ring cyclodextrins LR-CDs (CD₉–CD₂₂) were obtained from rice starch using cyclodextrin glycosyltransferase (CGTase), and were used as a wall material for embedding α-tocopherol. Complexes of α-tocopherol and LR-CDs were prepared by co-precipitation. A molar ratio of α-tocopherol/LR-CD of 1 : 2 showed the highest encapsulation efficiency. The surface morphology of the complex particles was observed to vary from irregular flakes to the formation of smaller clusters of particles using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Based on ¹H NMR and FT-IR observations, the inclusion complexes exhibited significant chemical shifts of 0.3 ppm and decreased peak signals. In addition, thermal analysis showed that the microcapsules improved the thermostability of the α-tocopherols. Antioxidant activity analysis proved the stability of α-tocopherol during storage. This study could serve as a reference for the more effective use of LR-CDs as wall materials.

Large-ring cyclodextrins LR-CDs (CD₉–CD₂₂) were obtained from rice starch using cyclodextrin glycosyltransferase (CGTase), and were used as a wall material for embedding α-tocopherol.

Antibacterial activity, optical, mechanical, and barrier properties of corn starch films containing orange essential oil

The incorporation of antimicrobial compounds into natural polymers can promote increased shelf life and ensure food safety. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial activity, morphological, optical, mechanical, and barrier properties of corn starch films containing orange (Citrus sinensis var. Valencia) essential oil (OEO). The corn starch films were prepared using the casting method. OEO and the corn starch films incorporated with OEO showed higher antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes. The addition of OEO to the films increased the morphological heterogeneity and contributed to the reduction of the tensile strength and elongation of the films, and it increased the moisture content, water solubility, and water vapor permeability. The water vapor permeability and partial or total solubility of a film in water prior to consumption of a product are of interest when the film is used as food coating or for encapsulation of specific molecules.

Inclusion Complex of Exocarpium Citri Grandis Essential Oil with β-Cyclodextrin: Characterization, Stability, and Antioxidant Activity

The purpose of this study was to produce and characterize an inclusion complex between β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) and Exocarpium Citri Grandis essential oil (EEO), and to evaluate its antioxidant properties. The volatile compounds of EEO were characterized by gas chromatography-mass spectrometer. A comparison of the β-CD, EEO, and the physical mixture with the inclusion complex revealed differences in their thermal stabilities and morphologies, which confirmed the formation of the β-CD-EEO inclusion complex. Complexed with β-CD, the β-CD-EEO inclusion complex showed a higher stability and antioxidant activity when compared with physical mixture and EEO. Therefore, β-CD can be used to form inclusion complexes with EEO to expand its potential applications in the food and drug industries. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Exocarpium Citri Grandis is rich in essential oil and other ingredients. The optimized extraction, constituent composition, and encapsulation of EEO in β-CD were investigated in this study. The results showed that the encapsulation process increased the antioxidant activity and stability of EEO, which provides both fundamental and practical knowledge for the application of EEO in the food and drug industries.

Nano-scale polysaccharide materials in food and agricultural applications

Potential applications of nanotechnology in food and agriculture include: (1) the encapsulation of functional compounds; (2) production of reinforcing materials; (3) delivery of nutraceuticals in foods; (4) food safety, for detection and control of chemical and microbiological risks; (5) active and intelligent food packaging; (6) incorporation of protective substances of seeds; (7) addition of nutrients in the soil; (8) use of controlled release pesticides. Natural polysaccharides and their derivatives are widely used in the production of nano-scale materials. This chapter examines, the use of polysaccharides, such as starch, cellulose, lignin, pectin, gums, and cyclodextrins for the production of nano-scale materials, including nanocrystals, nanoemulsions, nanocomplexes, nanocapsules, and nanofibers.

Studies on the Inclusion Complexes of Daidzein with β-Cyclodextrin and Derivatives

The inclusion complexes between daidzein and three cyclodextrins (CDs), namely β-cyclodextrin (β-CD), methyl-β-cyclodextrin (Me-β-CD, DS = 12.5) and (2-hydroxy)propyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD, DS = 4.2) were prepared. The effects of the inclusion behavior of daidzein with three kinds of cyclodextrins were investigated in both solution and solid state by methods of phase-solubility, XRD, DSC, SEM, ¹H-NMR and 2D ROESY methods. Furthermore, the antioxidant activities of daidzein and daidzein-CDs inclusion complexes were determined by the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) method. The results showed that daidzein formed a 1:1 stoichiometric inclusion complex with β-CD, Me-β-CD and HP-β-CD. The results also showed that the solubility of daidzein was improved after encapsulating by CDs. ¹H-NMR and 2D ROESY analyses show that the B ring of daidzein was the part of the molecule that was most likely inserted into the cavity of CDs, thus forming an inclusion complex. Antioxidant activity studies showed that the antioxidant performance of the inclusion complexes was enhanced in comparison to the native daidzein. It could be a potentially promising way to develop a new formulation of daidzein for herbal medicine or healthcare products.