Role of nanomaterials in improving the functionality of probiotics; integration of nanotechnology onto micro-structured platforms

Abstract

There is a growing interest in the production of probiotics (PRO) enriched food and pharmaceutical products as personalized nutrition and/or medicines. Due to the limitations associated with PRO such as their survival and targeted delivery in food/gastrointestinal matrices, it is necessary to introduce the next-generation PRO (NGPs). Combined formulation of PRO and nanomaterials (NMs) as a promising progress in nano-biotechnology has interesting potential applications. These NMs as proper carrier or coating agents have pivotal importance in food/drug applications of NGPs. There are several case studies related to the unique and promising capabilities of NMs for targeted delivery, long-term viability and stability of PRO, as well as potent infection control by these essential microorganisms and engineering of the smart constructs with enhanced functionalities using these innovative valuable platforms. Furthermore, surface to volume ratio of the produced constructs and adhesion of the PRO onto the intestinal epithelial mucus can be improved using novel NMs. Although integration of PRO with nanostructured platforms has promising beneficial effects, there are some limitations such as potential inhibitory effect of NMs on metabolic activity of PRO that needs to be considered. Furthermore, potential interactions between NMs and food components, their potential side effects on gut hemostasis, as well as concerns about their toxicity and biosafety are important issues in this context. This review sought to present and discuss the most recent cutting-edge publications associated with capabilities of NMs to improve crucial functionalities of the NGPs for their essential and innovative applications.