Fabrication of natural microcapsule with intrinsic core–shell structure as building blocks for achieving source control of obesity

Abstract

Regulating oil absorption at the intestinal absorption site is a safe and effective strategy for controlling obesity. Nevertheless, all patients may experience adverse effects from medication, including lipase inhibitors. Herein, we report the preparation of natural core–shell sporopollenin microcapsules with the ultimate goal of solidifying lipids post-lipase inhibition, thus exploring a safe and effective strategy for controlling lipid absorption in obesity. Naturally occurring micro/nanoparticles provide an incredible array of potential sources for fabricating pharmaceutical microcapsule carriers. Natural pine pollen was treated with phosphoric acid to yield intact, clean, and monodisperse microcapsules. Their intrinsic core–shell structures can be harnessed as potential carriers for pharmaceutical microcapsules, ensuring their viability for large-scale production. This study proposes an innovative strategy for complementary source control of obesity utilizing natural core–shell sporopollenin microcapsules and lipase inhibitors. Natural pine pollen microcapsule carriers exhibit natural core–shell structures, tunable wetting properties, and excellent liquid absorption capabilities. Interestingly, as-prepared hydrophobic pine pollen microcapsules can be utilized for the solidification of liquid drugs. Moreover, their strong oil adsorption capability can solidify lipids in complex oil–water systems post-oral lipase inhibition. Derived from pine pollen, these natural microcapsule carriers can be produced on a large scale and boast the safety of being food-derived, making them promising candidates for essential components in obesity source control.