Recent Advances on Nanoparticle Based Strategies for Improving Carotenoid Stability and Biological Activity

Nanomaterial-Based Repurposing of Macrophage Metabolism and Its Applications

Macrophage immunotherapy represents an emerging therapeutic approach aimed at modulating the immune response to alleviate disease symptoms. Nanomaterials (NMs) have been engineered to monitor macrophage metabolism, enabling the evaluation of disease progression and the replication of intricate physiological signal patterns. They achieve this either directly or by delivering regulatory signals, thereby mapping phenotype to effector functions through metabolic repurposing to customize macrophage fate for therapy. However, a comprehensive summary regarding NM-mediated macrophage visualization and coordinated metabolic rewiring to maintain phenotypic equilibrium is currently lacking. This review aims to address this gap by outlining recent advancements in NM-based metabolic immunotherapy. We initially explore the relationship between metabolism, polarization, and disease, before delving into recent NM innovations that visualize macrophage activity to elucidate disease onset and fine-tune its fate through metabolic remodeling for macrophage-centered immunotherapy. Finally, we discuss the prospects and challenges of NM-mediated metabolic immunotherapy, aiming to accelerate clinical translation. We anticipate that this review will serve as a valuable reference for researchers seeking to leverage novel metabolic intervention-matched immunomodulators in macrophages or other fields of immune engineering.

Bioactivity and Bioavailability of Carotenoids Applied in Human Health: Technological Advances and Innovation

This article presents a groundbreaking perspective on carotenoids, focusing on their innovative applications and transformative potential in human health and medicine. Research jointly delves deeper into the bioactivity and bioavailability of carotenoids, revealing therapeutic uses and technological advances that have the potential to revolutionize medical treatments. We explore pioneering therapeutic applications in which carotenoids are used to treat chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and age-related macular degeneration, offering novel protective mechanisms and innovative therapeutic benefits. Our study also shows cutting-edge technological innovations in carotenoid extraction and bioavailability, including the development of supramolecular carriers and advanced nanotechnology, which dramatically improve the absorption and efficacy of these compounds. These technological advances not only ensure consistent quality but also tailor carotenoid therapies to each patient's health needs, paving the way for personalized medicine. By integrating the latest scientific discoveries and innovative techniques, this research provides a prospective perspective on the clinical applications of carotenoids, establishing a new benchmark for future studies in this field. Our findings underscore the importance of optimizing carotenoid extraction, administration, bioactivity, and bioavailability methods to develop more effective, targeted, and personalized treatments, thus offering visionary insight into their potential in modern medical practices.

Pretreatment with Liposome-Encapsulated Shrimp Shell Extract Attenuated Neuronal Damage and Death in Aβ1-42-Induced Memory Deficits in Rats

The accumulation of amyloid-beta (Aβ) peptides is a crucial factor in the neuronal degeneration of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The current study investigated the underlying neuroprotective mechanisms of shrimp shell extract (SSE) and liposome-encapsulated SSE (SSE/L) against Aβ1-42-induced neuronal damage and death in rats. Intracerebroventricular infusion of Aβ1-42 effectively induced memory decline, as observed in a reduction of the rat's discriminating ability in the novel object recognition and novel object location tasks. Oral pretreatment with 100 mg/kg of SSE demonstrated no preventive effect on the memory decline induced by Aβ1-42 infusion. However, treatment with SSE/L 100 mg/kg BW effectively attenuated memory deficits in both behavioral assessments following two and four weeks after Aβ1-42 infusion. Moreover, SSE/L exerted neuroprotective effects by reducing lipid peroxidation and increasing Nrf2/HO-1 expression. There was a significant decrease in Iba1 and GFAP (biomarkers of microglia and astrocyte activity, respectively), as well as a decrease in the levels of NF-κB expression and the inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6 in the cortical and hippocampal tissues. Treatment with SSE/L also reduced the pro-apoptotic proteins Bax and cleaved caspase-3 while raising the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl2. In addition, the beneficial effects of SSE/L were along with the effects of a positive control commercial astaxanthin (AST). The findings of this study indicated that SSE/L provided neuroprotective effects on Aβ1-42-induced AD rats by ameliorating oxidative stress, neuroinflammation and apoptotic cell death. Therefore, SSE/L might be employed to prevent and mitigate Aβ accumulation-induced neurotoxicity in AD.

The Application of Natural Carotenoids in Multiple Fields and Their Encapsulation Technology: A Review

Carotenoids, which are inherent pigments occurring in plants and microorganisms, manifest a diverse array of vivid hues. Owing to their multifarious health advantages, carotenoids have engendered substantial interest among scholars and consumers alike. Presently, carotenoids are extensively employed in the realms of food, nutrition and health commodities, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics, rendering them an indispensable constituent of our quotidian existence. Therefore, the objective of this review is to present a succinct and methodical examination of the sources, constituents, and factors influencing formation of carotenoids. Particular attention will be given to encapsulation strategies that maintain intrinsic characteristics, as the growing desire for carotenoids is propelled by individuals' escalating standards of living. Moreover, the applications of natural carotenoids in multiple fields, including pharmaceutical, food and feed, as well as cosmetics, are discussed in detail. Finally, this article explores the main challenges hindering the future advancement of carotenoids, aiming at facilitating their effective integration into the circular economy.

Effects of dietary fat type and emulsification on carotenoid absorption: a randomized crossover trial

BACKGROUND

Although emerging evidence has suggested that the type and emulsification of dietary fat may be important to carotenoids absorption, these effects have not yet been validated in a human trial.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to examine the effects of dietary fat type and emulsification on the bioaccessibility and bioavailability of carotenoids from a carotenoids-rich salad.

METHODS

An identical salad was used for the in vitro and the human trial. This was paired with 28 g of one of the following four different fats: i) non-emulsified olive oil; ii) emulsified olive oil; (iv) non-emulsified coconut oil; v) emulsified coconut oil. The bioaccessibility of total carotenoids (TC) was assessed by a simulated in vitro digestion model. Sixteen subjects consumed salad with four test fats in random order, and plasma triglyceride and carotenoid (lutein, zeaxanthin, α-carotene, β-carotene, and lycopene) concentrations were determined hourly for 10 hours following the consumption. The absorption of TC and individual carotenoids were evaluated by the positive incremental area under the curve (iAUC) of plasma carotenoid concentrations.

RESULTS

The bioaccessibility of TC was greater with olive oil (24.0%) than with coconut oil (14.9%), and with the oil being emulsified (23.5%) rather than non-emulsified (15.4%). Likewise, the positive iAUC_1-10h of TC, α-carotene and lycopene were 55.2%, 110.8% and 45.8%, respectively, higher with olive oil than with coconut oil. Emulsified fat induced 40.0% greater positive iAUC_1-10h of TC than non-emulsified fat.

CONCLUSIONS

The type and emulsification of dietary fat are both essential to the carotenoid absorption. Findings from this study may provide scientific support for designing excipient emulsions as potential dietary strategies to optimize the absorption of fat-soluble compounds.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRY

The present trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04323826), link: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04323826.

Solid Lipid Nanoparticles: Review of the Current Research on Encapsulation and Delivery Systems for Active and Antioxidant Compounds

Various active compounds are easily damaged, so they need protection and must be easily absorbed and targeted. This problem can be overcome by encapsulating in the form of solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs). Initially, SLNs were widely used to encapsulate hydrophobic (non-polar) active compounds because of their matched affinity and interactions. Currently, SLNs are being widely used for the encapsulation of hydrophilic (polar) and semipolar active compounds, but there are challenges, including increasing their entrapment efficiency. This review provides information on current research on SLNs for encapsulation and delivery systems for active and antioxidant compounds, which includes various synthesis methods and applications of SLNs in various fields of utilization. SLNs can be developed starting from the selection of solid lipid matrices, emulsifiers/surfactants, types of active compounds or antioxidants, synthesis methods, and their applications or utilization. The type of lipid used determines crystal formation, control of active compound release, and encapsulation efficiency. Various methods can be used in the SLN fabrication of active compounds and hydrophilic/hydrophobic antioxidants, which have advantages and disadvantages. Fabrication design, which includes the selection of lipid matrices, surfactants, and fabrication methods, determines the characteristics of SLNs. High-shear homogenization combined with ultrasonication is the recommended method and has been widely used because of the ease of preparation and good results. Appropriate fabrication design can produce SLNs with stable active compounds and antioxidants that become suitable encapsulation systems for various applications or uses.

Pectin-based nanoencapsulation strategy to improve the bioavailability of bioactive compounds

Pectin is one of the polysaccharides to be used as a coating nanomaterial. The characteristics of pectin are suitable to form nanostructures for protection, increased absorption, and bioavailability of different active compounds. This review aims to point out the structural features of pectins and their use as nanocarriers. It also indicates the principal methodologies for the elaboration and application of foods. The research carried out shows that pectin is easily extracted from natural sources, biodegradable, biocompatible, and non-toxic. The mechanical resistance and stability in different pH ranges and the action of digestive enzymes allow the nanostructures to pass intact through the gastrointestinal system and be effectively absorbed. Pectin can bind to macromolecules, especially proteins, to form stable nanostructures, which can be formed by different methods; polyelectrolyte complexes are the most frequent ones. The pectin-derived nanoparticles could be added to foods and dietary supplements, demonstrating a promising nanocarrier with a broad technological application.

Formulation Approaches to Crystalline Status Modification for Carotenoids: Impacts on Dissolution, Stability, Bioavailability, and Bioactivities

Carotenoids, including carotenes and xanthophylls, have been identified as bioactive ingredients in foods and are considered to possess health-promoting effects. From a biopharmaceutical perspective, several physicochemical characteristics, such as scanty water solubility, restricted dissolution, and susceptibility to oxidation may influence their oral bioavailability and eventually, their effectiveness. In this review, we have summarized various formulation approaches that deal with the modification of crystalline status for carotenoids, which may improve their physicochemical properties, oral absorption, and biological effects. The mechanisms involving crystalline alteration and the typical methods for examining crystalline states in the pharmaceutical field have been included, and representative formulation approaches are introduced to unriddle the mechanisms and effects more clearly.

Nanoscale Delivery Systems of Lutein: An Updated Review from a Pharmaceutical Perspective

Carotenoids are natural lipid-soluble pigments that produce yellow to red colors in plants as well as providing bright coloration in vegetables and fruits. Lutein belongs to the xanthophyll subgroup of the carotenoid family, which plays an essential role in photosynthesis and photoprotection in nature. In the human body, lutein, together with its isomer zeaxanthin and its metabolite meso-zeaxanthin, accumulates in the macula of the eye retina, which is responsible for central, high-resolution, and color vision. As a bioactive phytochemical, lutein has essential physiological functions, providing photoprotection against damaging blue light, along with the neutralization of oxidants and the preservation of the structural and functional integrity of cellular membranes. As a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, lutein unfortunately has a low bioavailability because of its lipophilicity and a low stability as a result of its conjugated double bonds. In order to enhance lutein stability and bioavailability and achieve its controlled delivery to a target, nanoscale delivery systems, which have great potential for the delivery of bioactive compounds, are starting to be employed. The current review highlights the advantages and innovations associated with incorporating lutein within promising nanoscale delivery systems, such as liposomes, nanoemulsions, polymer nanoparticles, and polymer–lipid hybrid nanoparticles, as well as their unique physiochemical properties.

Encapsulation techniques perfect the antioxidant action of carotenoids: A systematic review of how this effect is promoted

Considering that antioxidant activities are directly related to carotenoid functionalities, it is necessary to use techniques that promote the stability of these natural pigments. This systematic review aimed to gather evidence on the effect of encapsulation techniques on the maintenance and/or enhancement of the antioxidant activity of carotenoids. The study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42020142065). Searches were performed in PubMed, Embase, Virtual Health Library, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science databases. Assessment of methodological quality was performed using OHAT. A total of 1577 articles were selected, resulting in 20 eligible studies. Overall, results showed that the mechanisms involved are related to the emergence of new chemical interactions, increased surface area, and the controlled release of carotenoids. Thus, evidence proved that encapsulation could preserve and/or enhance bioactivities of carotenoids, allowing the use in foods to promote benefits on population health.

A Comparative Study on Inhibition of Breast Cancer Cells and Tumors in Mice by Carotenoid Extract and Nanoemulsion Prepared from Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) Peel

The objectives of this study were to determine carotenoid composition in sweet potato (TNG66) peel and prepare carotenoid nanoemulsion to study its inhibition effect on breast cancer cells MCF-7 and tumors in mice. Results showed that a total of 10 carotenoids were separated within 30 min by employing a YMC C30 column and a gradient mobile phase of methanol/acetonitrile/water (74:14:12, v/v/v) and dichloromethane (B) with a flow rate of 1 mL/min, column temperature of 25 °C, and detection wavelength of 450 nm. Following quantitation, all-trans-β-carotene was present in the highest amount (663.8 μg/g). The method validation data demonstrated a high accuracy and precision of this method. The carotenoid nanoemulsion was prepared by mixing an appropriate proportion of carotenoid extract, Tween 80, PEG 400, soybean oil and deionized water with the mean particle size being 15.7 nm (transmission electron microscope (TEM)), polydispersity index 0.238, encapsulation efficiency 97% and zeta potential −69.8 mV. A high stability of carotenoid nanoemulsion was shown over a 90-day storage period at 25 °C and during heating at 100 °C for 2 h. The release percentage of total carotenoids from carotenoid nanoemulsion under gastric and intestinal condition was 18.3% and 49.1%, respectively. An antiproliferation study revealed that carotenoid nanoemulsion was more effective than carotenoid extract in inhibiting the growth of human breast cancer cells MCF-7. Following treatments of paclitaxel (10 μg/mL), carotenoid nanoemulsion (20 and 10 μg/mL) and carotenoid extract (20 and 10 μg/mL), the tumor weight of mice respectively decreased by 77.4, 56.2, 40.3, 36.1 and 18.7%, as well as tumor volume of mice by 75.4, 65.0, 49.7, 46.7 and 26.5%. Also, both carotenoid extract and nanoemulsion could reduce the levels of epidermal growth factor (EGF) and (vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in serum, with the latter being more effective. This finding suggested that carotenoid nanoemulsion was more effective than carotenoid extract in inhibiting tumor growth in mice.

Recent Advances in Green Synthesis of Ag NPs for Extenuating Antimicrobial Resistance

Combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an on-going global grand challenge, as recognized by several UN Sustainable Development Goals. Silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) are well-known for their efficacy against antimicrobial resistance, and a plethora of green synthesis methodologies now exist in the literature. Herein, this review evaluates recent advances in biological approaches for Ag NPs, and their antimicrobial potential of Ag NPs with mechanisms of action are explored deeply. Moreover, short and long-term potential toxic effects of Ag NPs on animals, the environment, and human health are briefly discussed. Finally, we also provide a summary of the current state of the research and future challenges on a biologically mediated Ag-nanostructures-based effective platform for alleviating AMR.

Inhibition of Melanoma Cells A375 by Carotenoid Extract and Nanoemulsion Prepared from Pomelo Leaves

This study aims to determine carotenoids in pomelo leaves (Citrus grandis Osbeck), a rich source of nutrients and phytochemicals, by high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and prepare carotenoid nanoemulsions for the study of its inhibitory mechanism on melanoma cells A375. Fourteen carotenoids were separated within 27 min by using a YMC-C30 column and a gradient mobile phase of methanol-acetonitrile-water (84:14:2, v/v/v) and methylene chloride with a flow rate of 1 mL/min and detection wavelength of 450 nm. All-trans-lutein plus its cis-isomers were present in the largest amount (3012.97 μg/g), followed by all-trans-neoxanthin (309.2 μg/g), all-trans-violaxanthin (208.5 μg/g), all-trans-β-carotene plus its cis-isomers (203.17 μg/g), all-trans-α-carotene plus its cis-isomers (152.5 μg/g), all-trans-zeaxanthin (54.67 μg/g), and all-trans-β-cryptoxanthin plus its cis-isomers (24.56 μg/g). A stable carotenoid nanoemulsion was prepared with a mean particle size of 13.3 nm, zeta-potential of −66.6 mV, a polydispersity index of 0.132 and an encapsulation efficiency of 99%. Both the carotenoid extract and nanoemulsion could upregulate p53, p21, cyclin B and cyclin A expressions in melanoma A375 cells and downregulate CDK1 and CDK2 in a concentration-dependent manner. Also, they could upregulate Bax and cytochrome-C and downregulate Bcl-2, leading to cell apoptosis through activation of caspase-9, caspase-8 and caspase-3. Compared to extract, carotenoid nanoemulsion was shown to be more effective in inhibiting the growth of melanoma cells A375. This finding further demonstrated that a carotenoid nanoemulsion prepared from pomelo leaves possessed a great potential to be developed into functional foods or even botanic drugs.

Valorization of Tomato Waste as a Source of Carotenoids

Fast-accumulating scientific evidence from many studies has revealed that fruits and vegetables are the main source of bioactive compounds; in most cases, wastes and byproducts generated by the food processing industry present similar or a higher content of antioxidant compounds. In recent years, the ever-growing amount of agricultural and food wastes has raised serious concerns from an environmental point of view. Therefore, there is an increasing interest in finding new ways for their processing toward safely upgrading these wastes for recovering high-value-added products with a sustainable approach. Among food waste, the abundance of bioactive compounds in byproducts derived from tomato suggests possibility of utilizing them as a low-cost source of antioxidants as functional ingredients. This contribution gives an overview of latest studies on the extraction methods of carotenoids from tomato waste, along with an evaluation of their antioxidant activity, as well as their industrial applications.