Gallic Acid/2-Hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin Inclusion Complexes Electrospun Nanofibrous Webs: Fast Dissolution, Improved Aqueous Solubility and Antioxidant Property of Gallic Acid

Abstract

Gallic acid(GA) is a kind of natural polyphenolic compound, but its low aqueous solubility restricts its application in the fields of food and medicine. Cyclodextrin can form inclusion complexes with guest molecules(e.g., essential oils, food supplements) through cavities with special properties to improve aqueous solubility, thermal stability, and bioavailability of guest molecules. In this research, gallic acid/2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin inclusion complexes(GA/2-HP-β-CD/ICs) were formed in a highly concentrated solution of 2-HP-β-CD. Bead-free and uniform nanofibrous webs(GA/2-HP-β-CD/IC-NWs) were produced successfully by electrospun GA/HP-β-CD/IC aqueous solution. The initial molar ratio(GA: 2-HP-β-CD=1:1) of GA/2-HP-β-CD/IC in the solutions was largely maintained in GA/2-HP-β-CD/IC-NW. The aqueous solubility of GA was enhanced and GA/2-HP-β-CD/IC-NW has displayed fast dissolution property. Furthermore, in comparison with GA powder, GA/2-HP-β-CD/IC-NW demonstrated improved antioxidant capacity. The results suggested that GA/2-HP-β-CD/IC-NW have broad application prospects as orally fast dissolution systems for food supplements.