Emulsion Method Research Articles

Impact of Nano-Pomegranate Seed Oil on the Expression of TLR2 and TLR4 Genes in A549 Cells Sensitized with Alternaria alternata Cellular Extract

Background: Allergies impact nearly 30% of the world's population, with fungi being remarkable contributors to allergic sensitivity. Exposure to fungi allergens can trigger allergic reactions and severe asthma has been linked to hypersensitivity to fungi such as Aspergillus and Alternaria spp. Alternaria alternata, a common allergen in respiratory allergic diseases, releases proteases that initiate Th2 responses, causing inflammatory cytokine production. Given the anti-inflammatory properties of Pomegranate Seed Oil (PSO) and the potential of Nano-emulsions (NEs) to enhance drug delivery, this study investigates the impact of PSO-loaded NEs on TLR2 and TLR4 gene expression in A549 cells sensitized with A. alternata extract (ALT). Methods: A. alternata (ATCC 6663) was cultured and processed to obtain a cytosolic extract, with protein content measured using the Bradford method. Using a Soxhlet apparatus, PSO was extracted from cleaned, dried seeds and analyzed by gas chromatography. Alginate nanospheres containing PSO were prepared through a modified water-in-oil emulsification method and characterized for particle size, polydispersity index, and zeta potential. A549 cells were cultured and treated with various ALT, PSO, and PSO-loaded NEs combinations. Following treatment, RNA was extracted, and real-time RT- PCR was conducted to analyze TLR2 and TLR4 gene expression. Results: All treatment groups showed an increase in TLR2 gene expression compared to the control, with the ALT combined with PSO (P+ALT) causing the highest increase at 4.82-fold. Free PSO (P) and free NEs (NP) resulted in 3.92-fold and 2.93-fold increases, respectively, while the ALT and PSO- loaded NEs (NP+ALT) led to 2.26-fold and 2.50-fold increases. For TLR4 gene expression, the ALT treatment increased expression by 2.29-fold, but treatments containing PSO (P, P+ALT, NP+ALT) reduced TLR4 expression, with P+ALT and NP+ALT causing 0.45-fold and 0.61-fold decreases. Conclusion: The study confirms that herbal extracts like PSO selectively upregulate TLR2 and downregulate TLR4, suggesting targeted therapeutic potential in inflammation and immune modulation. PSO-loaded NEs demonstrated superior anti-inflammatory effects, supporting their development for treating inflammatory diseases and warranting further research into their molecular mechanisms and therapeutic applications.

Production of Polylactide Nanoparticles Loaded With Isoniazid and Vitamin C: A Promising Candidate for the Treatment of Resistant Forms of Tuberculosis

ABSTRACTNowadays, the method of directed transport of drugs is becoming increasingly important in medicine and pharmacology. It allows for increasing the concentration of delivered substances in a certain place and blocking or severely limiting their accumulation in healthy organs and tissues. One of the promising drug carriers used in the development of controlled drug delivery systems is polylactic acid (PLA). We were interested in using biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) loaded with isoniazid (INH) and vitamin C (VC) which have sustained action, targeted delivery, high efficacy, and low toxicity. It will help to expand the use of these simple drugs for the rapid treatment of multidrug‐resistant forms of tuberculosis. Thus, in this work, PLA‐INH‐VC NPs were prepared by double emulsion method where several factors affecting particle size were investigated. TGA/DSC and IR spectroscopy studies identified the presence of molecularly dispersed drugs (INH and VC) in polylactide nanoparticles. VC was found to reduce the degradation of the polymer and thus prolonged the release of the drug from the polymer matrix. PLA‐INH‐VC nanoparticles were analyzed for mycobacterial activity and the nanoparticles were found to inhibit the growth of INH‐resistant mycobacteria.

Encapsulation of Olive Leaf Extract by Double Emulsion Method for Enriched Bakery Products: Enhancing Stability and Functionality

Encapsulation of Olive Leaf Extract by Double Emulsion Method for Enriched Bakery Products: Enhancing Stability and Functionality

Microencapsulation of Lactobacillus reuteri by Emulsion Technique and Evaluation of Microparticle Properties and Bacterial Viability Under Storage, Processing, and Digestive System Conditions

ABSTRACTIn this research, the emulsification method was used to encapsulate Lactobacillus reuteri in microparticles of whey protein concentrate (WPC) at different levels (1%, 2%, and 4%) and gum Arabic (GA) at three levels (0/5%, 1%, and 1/5%) and a constant level of sunflower oil (5%). The results showed that emulsions with higher quantities of wall materials exhibited better encapsulation efficiency (67%/57%) and preservation ability at different temperatures, different pH, and presence of 1% bile salt. During the storage time, the droplet size of the emulsion increased more than two times (from 2.2 to 4.6 μm) and the absolute zeta potential of the optimal emulsion decreased (from −19/63 to −16/76 mV). Encapsulating Lactobacillus reuteri in the stabilized emulsion with the highest concentration of wall material improved the cells' protection during storage. The study also observed a decline in the number of primary encapsulated live cells in the gastrointestinal tract (from 4/32 to 3/58 Log CFU/mL) after 90 days of storage. In the case of the nonencapsulated sample, the initial live population decreased from 2.8 to 1 Log CFU/mL after 90 days of storage. The electron microscope images showed that the emulsions became unstable after 30, 60, and 90 days of storage, but the microbial cells were still visible in the continuous phase. Overall, encapsulating Lactobacillus reuteri using emulsification technique can preserve the probiotics during storage and “in vitro” gastrointestinal digestion.

Antifeedant Nanosuspension Formula of <i>Tithonia diversifolia</i> Leaf Extract by Emulsion Inverse Method to Control <i>Crocidolomia pavonana</i> Cabbage Pest Insect

The leaf extract from Tithonia diversifolia is recognized for its ability to deter feeding in various Lepidoptera insect pests, including the larvae of Crocidolomia pavonana. Presently, transformation efforts from conventional formulations into nano-based formulations for biopesticides exhibit enhanced effectiveness and efficiency. Utilizing a low-energy process, an inversion emulsion facilitates the dispersion of the extract suspension in an organic solvent into a water-immiscible solvent using a suitable surfactant. The forming nano-size droplets in water (t1, t2, t3, t4) are influenced by the ratio of surfactant and organic suspension (Water: Tween 80: Organic suspension). The emulsification method successfully formulated T. diversifolia leaf extract, into dispersed nano-size and submicron suspensions in water. The t3 formula exhibits the smallest nano-size dispersed in water (D=23.6 ± 39.6 nm; polydispersity index IP=0.702) and enhanced wettability, evident in the lower contact angle of the droplet on the cabbage leaf surface (49.4°) compare with the control group. The Phytochemicals confirmed by IR-spectra analysis identified the phenols, alkaloids, and steroids constituents of leaf extract, which are known to have antifeedant properties. The enhanced antifeedant properties of T. diversifolia nanosuspension against C. pavonana third-instar larvae demonstrated by the antifeedant test results showing that t3 is the most successful deterrent larvae feeding activity compared to the control (P<0.05), due to the highest total antifeedant coefficient (74.27%) in a category medium antifeedant activity, while the non-emulsification displayed the lowest antifeedant coefficient (25.36%) in a category as low antifeedant activity. T. diversifolia leaf extract with a nano-based formula succeeded resulting in dispersed nano-size and submicron suspension in aqueous media, thereby reducing surface tension and enhancing wettability on the leaf surface during application. The improved dispersion of antifeedant nanosuspension on the leaf surface results in more effective delivery to target insects.

Fabrication of apigenin and adenosine-loaded nanoparticles against doxorubicin-induced myocardial infarction by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.

The study's goals are to fabricate PLGA nanoparticles (PNPs) loaded with apigenin (AP) and adenosine (AD) using a microfluidic preparation method to a standard emulsification method and investigate the possible heart-protective effects of AP-AD PNPs made using the emulsification method. Compared to microfluidics, the emulsification method fabricated small-size nanoparticles, which are better at encapsulating drugs, retaining more drugs, and having a low viscosity for the myocardial infarction (MI) injection. TheMI model was developed using SD rats injected under the skin with 85mg/kg doxorubicin (DOX) for 2 days. The metabolic results showed that our AP-AD PNPs accelerated the blood flow in rats with MI, which increased the amounts of AP and AD in the circulatory system. This led to significant improvements in the cardiac index and lower amounts of AST, LDH, and CK in the blood. A histopathological study using Hematoxylin&eosin, and TUNEL staining showed that cardiac function had improved and apoptosis had decreased. Moreover, tests that checked the amounts of IL-6, TNF-α, NO, GSH, MDA, and SOD showed that AP-AD PNPs may help treat MI by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, making it a potentially useful therapeutic approach.

Preparation, Characterization, and In Vivo Anti‐Fatigue Evaluation of Octacosanol Nanoemulsions

ABSTRACTOctacosanol (OCT) is a natural aliphatic alcohol with multiple activities, but the poor solubility limited its wide applications. In this study, OCT nanoemulsions were prepared by a low‐energy emulsification method. The particle size, polydispersity index, and Zeta potential of OCT nanoemulsions were 12.59 nm, 0.131, and −10.54 mV, respectively. OCT nanoemulsions could keep stable up to 180 days at 4°C with particle size ranging from 12.61 to 16.57 nm. In addition, OCT nanoemulsions could remain stable upon exposure to autoclaving, acid–base (pH 2–8), freeze–thaw, ultraviolet (UV) irradiation, and low concentrations of ions. The grid test time and exhaustive swimming time of the OCT nanoemulsions group increased by 70% and 40% compared with the exercise control group, indicating that OCT nanoemulsions could enhance the muscle strength and endurance performance of mice. Compared with the exercise control group, the muscle glycogen, liver glycogen, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px) levels of the OCT nanoemulsions group increased by 97%, 45%, 62%, and 20%, while the blood lactic acid and lactate dehydrogenase levels of the OCT nanoemulsions group decreased by 33% and 22%, respectively, suggesting that OCT nanoemulsions had the anti‐fatigue effect. Hematoxylin and eosin staining showed that OCT nanoemulsions could repair muscle damages induced by excessive exercise. These findings could pave the way for the development of OCT nanoemulsions with high stability and anti‐fatigue potential.

Synergistic sun protection via glucosylrutin-enhanced multiple emulsions

A sunscreen multiple emulsion with a “two films and three phases” structure was prepared using a two-step emulsification method. In this system, the inner aqueous phase contained dissolved Glucosylrutin, while the oil phase included a triazine-based chemical UV absorber. The composition and morphology of the emulsion were optimized, and its rheological properties and physical stability were analyzed. This study demonstrates the application of multiple emulsions in sun protection, highlighting their synergistic behavior in UV defense and their capacity to enhance the antioxidant properties derived from Glucosylrutin.

Sustained release of heparin from PLLA micropartricles for tissue engineering applications

Heparin holds promise for cardiac tissue engineering, but challenges such as hematoma or bleeding and accumulation in tissue caused by excessive release, and short half-life persist. The present study aimed to introduce a reliable mechanism for the prolonged heparin release from a biocompatible polymer carrier. The designed system must ensure that heparin retains its bioactivity over time while preventing premature release. Heparin was encapsulated within poly (L-lactic acid) microparticles using the double emulsion method, with polyvinyl alcohol employed as the stabilizer. The encapsulation efficiency of heparin in the microparticles was calculated as 25.56 %. The functionality of the design was evaluated using Attenuated Total Reflection Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy, and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy. Drug release and microparticle degradation studies were conducted alongside cell viability tests. The particle sizes ranged from 5 to 10 ± 2.53 μm, with evidence suggesting that heparin promotes the smaller particle formation. The system demonstrated a consistent drug release profile over six weeks with a release rate of 54 % by week two and 97.65 % by week six. The degradation of heparin-loaded microparticles reached less than 50 % by week six, and the loading of heparin did not significantly affect the degradation behavior of the PLLA microparticles in PBS. Furthermore, heparin concentrations between 200 and 400 μg/ml enhanced the viability of Placenta-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells and H9c2. These findings suggest that the system could be considered as an effective vehicle for sustained heparin delivery across a spectrum of biological applications, particularly in cardiac tissue engineering.

Construction of multi-functional silicone rubber/reduced graphene oxide/multi-walled carbon nanotube composites with segregated structure by surfactant-free Pickering emulsion method

Polymer composites with segregated structure (PC–S) have the advantages of low filler usage and excellent functionality. Emulsion blending combined with direct molding technology is the main method for the preparation of PC-S. However, due to the high fluidity of low-viscosity silicone rubber (SR), PC-S cannot be prepared by this technique. In addition, surfactants affect the heat resistance of the final SR composites (SRC). In order to solve the above problems, in this study, a Pickering emulsification combined with pre-crosslinking technology for SR was successfully developed by using graphene oxides (GO)/multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) hybrid fillers (GM) as emulsifiers, and SR/reduced GO (RGO)/MWCNTs composites with segregated structure (SSGM) were prepared. When RGO content is 4.5 wt%, MWCNTs content is 3.2 wt%, SSGM shows the highest electrical conductivity of 12.5 S/m, the highest electromagnetic interference shielding efficiency (EMI SE) of 41.4 dB, and an excellent flame retardant performance. The whole preparation process avoids the use of organic solvents and surfactants, which reduces the production cost of SSGM and the environmental pollution, and provides a feasible preparation route for the industrialized production of SSGM.

Antibiotics-encapsulated nanoparticles as an antimicrobial agent in the treatment of wound infection.

Disruption in the wound-healing process is caused by the presence of bacteria and leads to major problems and delays in wound healing. The limitations of commonly used medicines for treating wound infections include drug toxicity, insufficient microbial coverage, poor penetration, and increased resistance. This study aimed to determine the effect of ciprofloxacin loaded in solid lipid nanoparticles (Cip-SLN) on Pseudomonas aeruginosa and ampiciliin-vancomycin loaded in solid lipid nanoparticles (Amp-Van-SLN) on Staphylococcus aureus in wounds. Antibiotics were encapsulated in SLNs using the double emulsion method and were characterized. The in-vitro effect of antibiotic-loaded nanoparticles on P. aeruginosa and S. aureus was assessed using well diffusion and MIC methods. Finally, the topical antibacterial activity of these nanoparticles against bacterial wound infection was measured in a mouse model. MIC results showed that in the first 24 hours, the free drug had a greater effect on inhibiting bacteria, and in 72 hours, the inhibitory effect of nanoparticles increased. There was no toxicity effect of 400 µg/mL of nanoparticles on cells. According to the findings, the groups treated with Cip-SLN and Amp-Van-SLN were more effective than the control group (untreated) in different concentrations. In the wound healing process, the group treated with solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) exhibited a greater epithelial thickness, indicating enhanced healing, compared to the group treated with the free drug. The use of SLN can increase the accumulation of antibiotics at the site of infection with a slow release of the drug due to its fatty nature, which leads to a significant inhibitory effect on bacteria and also improves wound healing.

Preparation of spherical DAOAF with micro-nano structure by emulsion method: To improve short-pulse initiation performance

In order to take into account the advantages of good processing performance of micron 3,3′-diamino-4,4′-azoxyfurazan(DAOAF) and high sensitivity of short-pulse initiation of nano DAOAF, Spherical DAOAF products with nano-microstructure were prepared by oil-in-oil emulsion method. The laser-induced air shock wave detonation performance, mechanical sensitivity and short-pulse initiation sensitivity of raw DAOAF and spherical DAOAF were tested and compared. The results showed that the optimum process conditions of emulsion stability were as follows: using Tween-80 as the surfactant at a concentration of 0.3 g·mL−1, a solvent-non-solvent volume ratio of 1:3, and emulsion standing time less than 10 minutes. Compared to the raw DAOAF, the crystal structure of DAOAF sample prepared by emulsion method did not change, only the morphology changed. The DAOAF sample prepared by emulsion method is spherical, and the surface is self-assembled by nanorod-like DAOAF, the particle size distribution is uniform and the dispersion is good. The thermal decomposition peak temperature of spherical DAOAF did not change significantly, but the activation energy of thermal decomposition decreased by 30.07 kJ·mol−1, the characteristic velocities of the laser-induced micro-explosion shock waves increased 12.4 %, the 50 % short-pulse initiation current of the impactor decreased from 3.8 kA to 2.3 kA, and the mechanical sensitivity of DAOAF showed no significant change before and after spherical transformation.

Nanoencapsulation of creatine: Unlocking hydrophilic bioactive potential through double emulsification by solvent diffusion

AbstractNanotechnology has emerged as a pivotal tool in pharmaceutical research, driving the development of innovative techniques to enhance drug distribution within the body by finely tuning the biopharmaceutical properties of various drugs. Among these techniques, encapsulating biologically active substances in polymeric nanoparticles has garnered significant attention. However, achieving high encapsulation efficiency for hydrophilic molecules remains a formidable challenge, despite their growing importance in treating diverse diseases such as cancer, where nucleic acids, peptides, proteins, and smaller hydrophilic molecules are key players. While some studies have reported improvements in encapsulating hydrophilic drugs, notable examples, like the solid/oil/water ion‐pairing method and the use of calcium phosphate, have shown promise in enhancing encapsulation efficiency for different drugs. Nonetheless, the challenge of preparing aqueous core nanoparticles capable of encapsulating a high percentage of water‐soluble actives persists. Creatine monohydrate, a bioactive compound widely consumed by athletes for its role in increasing muscular phosphocreatine stores, presents an intriguing case. Despite its insolubility in organic media, creatine exhibits limited aqueous solubility, rendering it a suitable candidate for encapsulation in polymeric nanoparticles to improve its aqueous solubility and gastrointestinal absorption. In this study, we aim to produce polymeric nanoparticles containing creatine monohydrate utilizing the double emulsification (W/O/W) method. This promising and efficient approach holds the potential to significantly enhance the aqueous solubility and gastrointestinal absorption of creatine, thereby broadening its clinical application spectrum. Leveraging nanotechnology in this context offers an innovative and potentially impactful strategy to augment the therapeutic efficacy of creatine.

Berry pomace as a potential ingredient for plant‐based meat analogs

AbstractGiven the projected global population growth and the associated increase in demand for sustainable and nutritious food options, plant‐based meat analogs are increasingly popular. Berry pomace, a by‐product of the juice and wine industry, emerges as a promising ingredient for enhancing these products. This paper comprehensively explores the innovative use of berry pomace in the development of plant‐based meat analogs. It highlights key components such as antioxidants, natural colorants, dietary fibers, oils, and micronutrients, which significantly contribute to enhancing the nutritional profiles, sensory qualities, and shelf stability of these analogs. Methods for incorporating berry pomace into plant‐based meats, including direct addition and the addition of berry pomace extract using innovative technologies, such as high‐moisture extrusion, 3D printing and emulsion methods, are discussed. Moreover, the challenges of integrating berry pomace into plant‐based meats are critically analyzed, focusing on variability in pomace composition, potential sensory impact, and the technological adaptations required for optimal use in food production. The potential of berry pomace to enhance both the quality and appeal of plant‐based meats is highlighted, underscoring its significant contribution to the development of more sustainable food systems by valorizing food waste to high‐value products.

The synergistic effect of α-tocopherol and phloretin-loaded nanoemulsions on improvement of the stability, antioxidant, and tyrosinase inhibitory potentiality.

The purpose of this study was to prepare and evaluate the formulation of nanoemulsions (NEs) to encapsulate phloretin (PT) to improve its stability, antioxidant, and tyrosinase inhibitory competence. The aim of this study was to improve the stability, antioxidant, and tyrosinase inhibitory effects of PT via NEs. The formulations were prepared using low energy emulsification method for PT-VE-NEs, α-tocopherol (Vitamin E) and medium chain triglycerides (MCT) were used as the oil phase, and Tween 60 was used as the emulsifier and PEG-400 as the co-emulsifier. The droplet size and zeta potential of oil-in-water NEs were evaluated using dynamic light scattering. The PT-VE-NEs were also characterized by transmission electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The mean droplet diameter was 14.85±0.14nm, with a zeta potential of -2.47±0.51mV. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed the formation of molecular interactions in the NEs formulations. PT-VE-NEs size was maintained the same during the in vitro digestion study. The particle size of PT-VE-NE remained stable during in vitro digestion. The addition of VE significantly improved the antioxidant, tyrosinase inhibitory effects, as well as thelion and physical stability of PT-VE-NE. The results revealed that NEs is a promising strategy to improve the functionality and stability of PT and VE. PT-VE-NEs will be applied for the preservation of fruits.

Preparation of the porous spherical propellant by using the additives of alkali-metal salt

This article presents the research results on using some alkali-metal salts as additives in the technological process of making porous spherical propellants and the effects of some of these additives on the porosity and some characteristics of the propellant. The porous spherical propellants are prepared using the emulsion method with additive concentrations of Na2SO4, K2SO4, and KNO3 from 0% to 3%. The important characteristics of the sample were determined, such as heat of combustion (Qv), bulk density (ω), temperature of ignition (Tig), and chemical stability. The porosity is calculated and converted through bulk density and theoretical density. The results show that the sample with the Na2SO4 salt has the best porosity (51÷53%) at concentrations over 2%. The important characteristics of the porous propellant do not change significantly compared to the no-additive spherical propellant.

Preparation of aerogels with SBS@rGO structure by Pickering emulsion method for innovative applications in pressure sensors

Pressure sensors based on graphene conductive fillers show great promise for application in the field of smart wearable devices. The SBS@rGO structured aerogel sensors covered herein were prepared by the Pickering emulsion method based on a solution of styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) dispersion. The mechanical properties of SBS@rGO aerogel were tested with 100 independent loading-unloading cycles in a graded compressive strain range of 10–40 %. The results indicate that the SBS@rGO aerogel have fast and slightly destructive resilience after unloading at low compressive strains (ε ≤ 30 %). Moreover, the presence of rGO endowed SBS@rGO with pressure sensing properties such as high electrical conductivity (2.294 S/m), high sensitivity (0.016 kPa−1 at 6.36–100 kPa), short signal response time (60 ms) and recovery time (30 ms). The SBS@rGO pressure sensors were integrated into shoe soles to simulate walking scenes, whose response signals had excellent reproducibility and could be differentiated according to three different walking states. The potential and feasibility of SBS@rGO aerogel as wearable flexible pressure sensors has been demonstrated.

Study on Oxygen Balance Regulation of TKX‐50 Based on Emulsion Method

AbstractDuring the process of external work, the energy of the negative oxygen balanced 5,5′‐Bi‐tetrazolium‐1,1′dioxyhydroxylammonium salt (TKX‐50) is not fully released, resulting in low energy utilization efficiency and the generation of harmful gases that pollute the environment. Based on this, in order to adjust the oxygen balance of TKX‐50, nano TKX‐50/AP composites with positive, zero and negative oxygen balance were prepared by emulsion method. The morphology of nano TKX‐50/AP composite was similar to that of hedgehog‐like spherical‐like particles, with many dense pores formed on the surface, and the average particle size was about 30 μm. During the composite process, part of TKX‐50 reacted with AP to form 5,5′‐bistetrazole‐1,1′dioxidamide (ABTOX). The first thermal decomposition peak temperature of zero‐oxygen balance TKX‐50/AP composite was 236.0°C, which was slightly reduced compared with that of TKX‐50. The second thermal decomposition peak temperature was 275.1°C, which was 22.2°C higher than that of TKX‐50. The heat release of zero‐oxygen balance TKX‐50/AP composite reached 2206 J g−1, which increased by 35.9% compared to TKX‐50, and the energy utilization efficiency was also greatly improved. The drop height of 50% explosion probability (H50) of zero‐oxygen balance TKX‐50/AP composite was 63.5 cm, and the explosion probability of friction sensitivity was 72%. Compared with TKX‐50, it increased by 15.1 cm and decreased by 28%, respectively. The results showed that the mechanical safety performance of TKX‐50 had been improved.

Optimization of a gelatin/carboxymethylcellulose-based probiotic microcapsule and its application in preventing dextran sodium sulfate-induced colitis in mice.

Oral administration of probiotics has demonstrated substantial potential in alleviating colitis. However, most of the ingested microorganisms struggle to survive the harsh conditions of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to decreased efficacy. In the present study, using double emulsification (W1/O/W2) and complex coacervation methods, we developed a gelatin/carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)-based probiotic microcapsule and analyzed the efficacy of encapsulated probiotics in preventing dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis in mice. Our results reveal that nearly 90% of the encapsulated probiotics remained viable after 30-day storage at 4°C and approximately 38.1% of viable bacteria (4.0 × 108 cfu/g) survived after 4-h simulated gastrointestinal digestion. In a DSS-induced colitis model, pretreatment with probiotics exerted significant protective effects, with the bacterial microcapsule-treated group having superior outcomes to those of the bacterial suspension plus empty carrier group. Probiotic treatments, especially those administered in the encapsulated form, significantly increased fecal short-chain fatty acid contents, and altered the intestinal microbial composition. The family Muribaculaceae, dominant bacteria in the mouse gut, may be the key microorganism involved in the BM regulation process. Our study presents an alternative approach to treating colitis using probiotics. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: The encapsuled probiotic showed remarkable storage stability at 4°C, maintained good vitality after simulated digestion, and gained superior outcomes in preventing colitis. Our results offer an alternative approach for the probiotic preparations aiming to prevent the intestinal inflammation.

Ultrastable hierarchically porous nucleotide-based MOFs and their use for enzyme immobilization and catalysis

Immobilization of free enzymes facilitates their recovery and reuse, while also enhances their enzymatic characteristics. Hierarchically porous metal-organic frameworks (HP-MOFs) are promising candidates for enzyme immobilization. However, fabrication of HP-MOFs with more kinds of components as ligands is still a challenge. Herein, ultrastable crystalline MOFs with micro-, meso- and macroporous structure were constructed using guanosine 5′-monophosphate (GMP) as organic ligand through templated emulsification method. HP-MOFs crystals with the near rhomb-like, rod-like and slab-like morphology were interestingly obtained from Zn2+, Cu2+ and Cd2+ respectively. The HP-MOFs immobilized enzymes exhibited an enhanced enzymatic activity and stability. In addition, the immobilized CALB (Candida antarctica lipase B) showed great glycerolysis and esterification performances for glycerides preparation, with diacylglycerols (DAG) content over 60 wt% and triacylglycerols (TAG) content over 90 wt% obtained respectively from glycerolysis and esterification. Moreover, it retained 82.32 % of its initial glycerolysis activity after six cycles of reuse in glycerolysis. The present study will provide clues and show new horizons to explore new organic ligands for HP-MOFs fabrication, as well as to expand the applications of HP-MOFs and their supported enzymes.