Β-cyclodextrin Inclusion Complex Research Articles

β-Cyclodextrin Inclusion Complexation With Tricyclic Antidepressants Desipramine and Imipramine: A Structural Chemistry Perspective

Single-crystal X-ray diffraction and DFT calculation have been carried out for an atomic-level understanding of β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) inclusion complexation with 2 tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), desipramine and imipramine. X-ray analysis discloses that the A–C-rings are buried in the β-CD cavity and the side chain is mostly outside the cavity, nearby the O2–H/O3–H side. Hence, the inclusion structures of both complexes are stabilized by host–guest C5–H∙∙∙π interaction and N5′–H∙∙∙O5/O6 H-bonds of twofold-screw-symmetry-related molecules, which are similar to those of the reported complexes of nortriptyline and amitriptyline. The DFT full-geometry optimization in the gas phase reveals an alternative inclusion scenario with the TCA side chain that is embedded in the β-CD cavity and stabilized by intermolecular O6–H∙∙∙N5’ H-bond and O2–H/O3–H∙∙∙π interactions. The β-CD encapsulation of the TCA side chain is more energetically stable by 10.76 and 4.70 kcal mol−1 than that of the aromatic moiety for the respective complexes of DPM and IPM, based on the relative stabilization energies (ΔΔEstb). This suggests the existence of the bimodal β-CD–TCA inclusion complexes as spectroscopically observed in solution, thus explaining the controversy in the inclusion mode and the improvement of TCA therapeutic effect by CD encapsulation.

Feature-Based Molecular Networking Analysis of the Metabolites Produced by In Vitro Solid-State Fermentation Reveals Pathways for the Bioconversion of Epigallocatechin Gallate

Dark teas are prepared by a microbial fermentation process. Flavan-3-ol B-ring fission analogues (FBRFAs) are some of the key bioactive constituents that characterize dark teas. The precursors and the synthetic mechanism involved in the formation of FBRFAs are not known. Using a unique solid-state fermentation system with β-cyclodextrin inclusion complexation as well as targeted chromatographic isolation, spectroscopic identification, and Feature-based Molecular Networking on the Global Natural Products Social Molecular Networking web platform, we reveal that dihydromyricetin and the FBRFAs, including teadenol A and fuzhuanin A, are derived from epigallocatechin gallate upon exposure to fungal strains isolated from Fuzhuan brick tea. In particular, the strains from subphylum Pezizomycotina were key drivers for these B-/C-ring oxidation transformations. These are the same transformations seen during the fermentation process of dark teas. These discoveries set the stage to enrich dark teas and other food products for these health-promoting constituents.

Host–guest inclusion complex of β-cyclodextrin and benzoic acid in water–ethanol solvents: spectroscopic and thermodynamic characterization of complex formation

In this study, an inclusion complex of benzoic acid with β-cyclodextrin (BA-βCD) was obtained from water–ethanol solvents. The yield of complex synthesis in binary mixtures is greater than in water and reaches maximum value at 0.10 mol fraction of ethanol. Results of FTIR spectroscopy analysis showed that the main difference in the spectra of the acid and inclusion complex was observed in the frequency ranging from 2500 to 3100 cm−1, corresponding to aromatic hydrogen vibrations. These vibrations are highly attenuated in complex. Phase solubility and differential scanning calorimetry studies revealed that the inclusion complex was obtained with 1:1 stoichiometric ratio and the solubility of benzoic acid increased with an increase in β-cyclodextrin concentrations in water. The logarithm of stability constant in water was found to be lgK = 1.99. The thermodynamic parameters for the reaction of (BA-βCD) complex formation in H2O–EtOH solvents were determined from calorimetric experiments carried out by means of the calorimetric titration system TAM III (TA Instruments) at T = 25 °C. The heat effects of mixing β-cyclodextrin solutions with benzoic acid were obtained from water–ethanol mixed solvents containing X(EtOH) = (0.00, 0.10, 0.20 and 0.30) mole fraction at pH = 3.6 and T = 25 °C. However, at X(EtOH) = 0.30 mol fraction, according to the calorimetric titration data, no complex formation occurs. When transferring from H2O to H2O–EtOH solvents, complex stability decreases from lgK = 2.4 to lgK = 0.7, wherein the reaction exothermicity increases from − 12.2 kJ mol−1 to − 44.3 kJ mol−1. An increase in the exothermicity of complexation is accompanied by a decrease in the entropic contribution to the change in the reaction Gibbs energy.

Functional improvement of rabbit mesenchymal stem cells by electrical stimulation using a nano-structured poly aniline/sulfonated cyclodextrin scaffold

Abstract The aim of this study is to improve cell functionality in rabbit mesenchymal stem cells (rbMSCs) by the electrical stimulation (ES) process. A poly aniline/sulfonated β-cyclodextrin (PANI/SCD) inclusion complex was synthesized and used as an electro-conductive scaffold. Biocompatibility of the synthesized inclusion complex with different compositions was investigated using MTT method and in compliance with ISO-10993 standard. The cells were cultured on the scaffold and exposed to a 100 mV.mm−1 electrical potential for 60 min of a day and for 7 days. Apoptotic behaviour of the cells was investigated using FACS flowcytometry method. Obtained results showed that the ES process can significantly improve the bioavailability and functionality of the rbMSCs. We showed that the ES process may be considered as a potential alternative for different growth factors in the fields of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

Improvement of stability due to a cyclamen aldehyde/β-cyclodextrin inclusion complex

Cyclamen aldehyde (Cya) is an essential oil component with an aldehyde group. The current study examined an inclusion complex of Cya and β-cyclodextrin (βCD) and assessed its physicochemical properties, volatility, and stability. Phase solubility diagrams and 1H NMR spectroscopy indicated that Cya and βCD in a co-precipitate (CP) form a complex at a molar ratio of 1/1. Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) patterns revealed crystal diffraction peaks due to βCD (2θ = 8.8°, 12.5°, and 20.8°) for the PM and new diffraction peaks (2θ = 11.7° and 17.5°) for the CP. Thermogravimetry (TG) measurements indicated that Cya decreased about 18.2% in a physical mixture (PM) and about 4.4% in the CP. FT-IR and NIR spectroscopies indicated that the spectra produced by the methyl groups and isopropyl group (5908 cm−1) of Cya and by the hydroxyl groups (4756 cm−1) in the cavity of βCD shifted. {1H–1H} NOESY NMR spectra revealed couplings for the protons of the isopropyl group (1.05 ppm) and the protons of the βCD cavity (H-3: 3.66 ppm). These findings indicated that the isopropyl group of Cya is included in the wider opening of the βCD torus. Diffusion-ordered two-dimensional NMR spectroscopy (DOSY) indicated that the CP (Cya/βCD) had a diffusion coefficient of 3.21 × 10−5 cm2/s and that βCD had a diffusion coefficient of 3.25 × 10−5 cm2/s, so the CP (Cya/βCD) had colligate properties like those of βCD. A stability test at a temperature of 40 °C and RH of 82% revealed that Cya decreased about 7.4% in 7 d, but at least 29% of the CP (Cya/βCD) was retained. At a temperature of 25 °C and RH of 84%, Cya decreased about 9.7% in 7 d, but at least 76.5% of the CP (Cya/βCD) was retained. These findings indicated that formation of a complex by the CP (Cya/βCD) should reduce the volatility of Cya and improve its stability.

Structural, physicochemical, and functional (antioxidant-antimicrobial) properties of 2-O-methyl-β-cyclodextrin inclusion with hexahydro-β-acids in chitosan films

The use of synthetic packaging films causes serious environmental problems due to difficulty in recycling and poor biodegradability. Therefore, the present study aimed to develop natural biopolymer-based packaging films. As natural materials, chitosan (CS)-based films containing various concentrations (0.05 %, 0.1 %, and 0.15 %) of the hexahydro-β-acid/2-O-methyl-β-cyclodextrin (HBA/M-β-CD) inclusion complex were prepared and evaluated for structural, physicochemical, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. Results of morphological analysis and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) demonstrated good compatibility between CS and the HBA/M-β-CD complex and indicated that intermolecular hydrogen bonds were probably formed. Moisture content of the films decreased, whereas water solubility, swelling ratio, and water vapor permeability increased after the addition of HBA/M-β-CD. Optical test showed that addition of the inclusion complex improved the UV light barrier property. The mechanical properties of the film were considerably increased after the incorporation of 0.1 % HBA/M-β-CD. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging activity of HBA/M-β-CD-CS films was ten times higher than that of the control CS film. Furthermore, the incorporation of HBA/M-β-CD conferred the films with good antimicrobial activity against various foodborne pathogens. In summary, our results indicated that encapsulation with M-β-CD was an effective way of introducing HBA into CS film. This film can be used as an active packaging material for food preservation.

Optimization formula of fast disintegrating tablets Ketoprofen β-cyclodextrin inclusion complex with sodium starch glycolate and crospovidone as the superdisintegrants

Ketoprofen has low solubility in water with unpleasant taste. Efforts to improve solubility and taste are by forming inclusion complexes using β-cyclodextrin. In its development to release Ketoprofen quickly, fast disintegrating tablets (FDT) were prepared. The speed of drug release is influenced by the speed of disintegration tablets. The combination of sodium starch glycolate (SSG) and crospovidone (CP) combines swelling and wicking action which speeds up the disintegration of tablets. This study aims to obtain the optimum value of the combination of both in order to obtain FDT with optimum evaluation parameters according to the requirements. The study made 8 run FDT directly with variations in the concentration of SSG 2–8% and CP 2-5%. Evaluations carried out at each run included flow velocity tests, uniformity of preparation, hardness, friability, disintegration time, wetting time and dissolution. Data were analyzed using simplex lattice design method. The optimum formula predicted results are verified by analysis of one sample t-test. The results showed increasing the proportion of SSG increases hardness, disintegration time and wetting time and decreases fragility of FDT. The optimum formula found at combination of 2% SSG and 5% CP with optimum physical properties and percent release and sweet taste.

Complexation of methyl salicylate with β-cyclodextrin and its release characteristics for active food packaging.

A series of methyl salicylate (MeSA)/β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) inclusion complexes (ICs) were prepared at different MeSA concentrations by the co-precipitation method using methyl salicylate for maintaining the quality of fresh produce. The formation of IC was confirmed through FTIR, 1H NMR, TGA, and SEM measurements. Among the grades applied, IC with 1:1 grade showed the highest MeSA entrapment efficiency (59%). The release rate of MeSA from an IC was greater at higher temperature and higher relative humidity. In addition, the MeSA release from ICs of all grades followed a diffusive nature and first-order kinetics at 25°C under all RH conditions, except at 7°C. These results indicate that the use of a MeSA/β-CD IC in active packaging applications can effective maintain the quality of fresh produce.

An innovative active cardboard box for bulk packaging of fresh bell pepper

Active packaging including encapsulated essential oils (EOs) may highly increase the shelf life of horticultural products due to the higher antimicrobial activity of EOs in the vapour phase through a controlled release from the packaging. In that sense, the aim of the present study was to study the effects of an active packaging (a cardboard box including a βcyclodextrin (βCD) inclusion complex with an EOs mix) on the quality of bell peppers (green, red and yellow) during storage at 8 °C (90 % relative humidity) up to 18 d. The EO mix (carvacrol:oregano:cinnamon 70:10:20 v:v:v) was efficiently encapsulated within the βCD inclusion complex by 94 %. Green, red and yellow peppers packaged within the active box showed 1–2 lower log units of enterobacteria than the control (without the active coating) after 11–18 d. Furthermore, green/red and yellow peppers showed lower mould counts (approximately 1 log unit) than control samples at days 6 and 11, respectively. The decay incidence of samples was also highly controlled by the active packaging with percentages lower than 5 % after 18 d while control samples showed decay incidences of 10–15 %. The use of this active box did not negatively affect the physicochemical quality of peppers even showing red and green peppers of the active box better firmness than control samples after 18 d. The shelf life of peppers stored within the active box reached 18 d while samples stored with the control box were rejected. Carvacrol residues in peppers were very low (below 1 mg kg−1) avoiding off-flavours according to sensory results. Conclusively, this active packaging allowed to extend the shelf life of green, red and yellow peppers for at least 18 d at 8 °C.

Preparation, Physicochemical Characterization and In Vitro and In Vivo Activity Against Heligmosomoides polygyrus of Novel Oral Formulations of Albendazole and Mebendazole

Albendazole (ABZ) and mebendazole (MBZ) are the 2 most commonly used drugs in the treatment of soil-transmitted helminth infections in humans, but their performance is hampered by low solubility and physicochemical properties. We developed different formulations (β-cyclodextrin inclusion complexes, chitosan-based microcrystals (CH), and polyvinyl alcohol and polysorbate 80–based nanoparticles [P80]) of ABZ and MBZ with an improved in vitro solubility profile and tested their activities in vitro and in vivo against the hookworm Heligmosomoides polygyrus. We found that all formulations tested showed a faster and higher dissolution level and were more active than the standard drugs. When compared to ABZ, ABZ-P80 revealed the highest improvement in terms of solubility increase (4-fold increase) and in vivo activity (an ED50 of 7.0 mg/kg for ABZ and of 4.1 mg/kg for ABZ-P80). Although the activity of MBZ was in all cases lower than ABZ, the improved formulations of MBZ performed better than standard MBZ, where MBZ-CH showed a significantly higher in vivo activity (ED50 of 8.02 mg/kg vs. an ED50 of 203 mg/kg for MBZ). In this work, we identified MBZ-CH and ABZ-P80 formulations as lead formulations hence further studies should be conducted.

Development of chitosan films containing β-cyclodextrin inclusion complex for controlled release of bioactives

2-phenyl ethanol is a natural compound, which have many applications due to its nice fragrance, bacteriostatic and antifungal character. However, it is difficult to keep it stable and it is highly volatile. In this work, chitosan films with 2-phenyl ethanol were developed and inclusion complexes with cyclodextrins (CDs) were prepared in order to have a controlled release of 2-phenyl ethanol. β-CD was selected to develop the inclusion complex since it showed higher retention yield (45%, molar basis) than α- or γ-CDs. Chitosan films incorporated with β-CD:2-phenyl ethanol were homogeneous, transparent and colorless, and showed high mechanical resistance. Furthermore, the release results of the films without the inclusion complex indicated that 2-phenyl ethanol was evaporated during the film preparation, and only an 8% of the total bioactive was retained in the film, while more than 90% of 2-phenyl ethanol was retained in the films with the inclusion complex.

Inclusion complexation of imidazolium-based ionic liquid and β-cyclodextrin: A detailed spectroscopic investigation

Host-guest inclusion complexation (IC) behavior of ionic liquid (IL) 1-decyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate [Dmim][BF4] within β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) and the nature of complexation as well as binding affinity were studied in aqueous solution with the help of different spectroscopic methods i.e., fluorescence, dynamic light scattering (DLS), UV–vis, FTIR, and 1H NMR spectroscopy. The nature of complexation has been established from the results obtained for critical micelle concentration (cmc), aggregation number (Nagg), Stern-Volmer constant, particle size. Fluorescence and UV–vis studies revealed that 1:1 M stoichiometry of the ICs, while FTIR and DLS studies show the formation of H-bonding, electrostatic, hydrophobic interactions within the system and size of ICs formed. IL [Dmim][BF4] imparts distinctive properties of the ICs along with the instantaneous presence of vesicle and micelle which is well supported by DLS results. Binding constants for β-CD and [Dmim][BF4] complexes have been derived using Benesi-Hildebrand method and the thermodynamic properties have been evaluated with the help of van't Hoff equation. 1H NMR results are significant to show the changes for chemical shift of the β-CD and [Dmim][BF4] complexes which reveals that alkyl part of the IL is inserted into the hydrophobic cavity of β-CD. The obtained results on the ICs of [Dmim][BF4]/β-CD in this article can find potential application in soft matter construction, sensing and drug delively.

Preparation and slow release kinetics of apple fragrance/β-cyclodextrin inclusion complex

In this study, the optimum preparation conditions for apple fragrance (AF)/β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) inclusion complex were determined by single-factor experiments with encapsulation efficiency (EE%) and loading capacity (LC%) as indicators. The results of particle size analysis indicated that the average diameter of the inclusion complex was 3.6 µm. DSC analysis indicated that the AF/β-CD inclusion complex had a good stability. The release study showed that the retention rate of the AF was 34.4% 60 days later at 50 °C. Avrami’s equation was used to analyze the release kinetics of fragrance/β-CD inclusion complex under different temperatures. The results showed that the release of encapsulated fragrance was between diffusion limiting kinetics and first-order release kinetics at 4 °C, and first-order mode release mechanism at 25 and 50 °C. These results demonstrated that the stability of encapsulated fragrance was enhanced and achieved the purpose of controlled release.

Biodegradable and biocompatible agarose–poly (vinyl alcohol) hydrogel for the in vitro investigation of ibuprofen release

Biodegradable and biocompatible interpenetrating hydrogels consisting of agarose and poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) were synthesized using N,N′-methylene bisacrylamide as the cross-linker. Different hydrogels of agarose were prepared with varying concentration of PVA, cross-linker, and initiator ammonium persulfate. The concentration of each of the component was optimized on the basis of their nature of swelling. Surface morphology of the prepared hydrogel was examined by FESEM analysis and structural changes were confirmed by FTIR, XRD and TGA/DSC technique. Prepared hydrogels showed excellent swelling and pH-dependent drug release. Ibuprofen was used as a model drug to investigate the release behavior from hydrogels. Pre-synthesized IBU and β-cyclodextrin (1:1) inclusion complex was loaded directly into the hydrogel and its release study was performed in different pH solutions. The release data were fitted using various kinetic models such as zero-order, first-order, Higuchi model and Korsemeyer–Peppas model and examined the release mechanism. The biodegradation and cytotoxicity assay studies confirmed the degradable and non-toxic nature of modified hydrogel.

Studies on Inclusion Complexes of β-Cyclodextrin with Some Metal Complexes of Isatinylsemicarbazone and Isatinylthiosemicarbazone

The complexes of Co(II), Ni(II), Zn(II) and Cd(II) with isatinylsemicarbazone (IstscabH) and isatinylthiosemicarbazone (IsttscabH) of composition ML2·2H2O [M = Co(II) or Ni(II) and LH = IstscabH or IsttscabH] and ML2 [M = Zn(II) or Cd(II) and LH = IstscabH or IsttscabH] have been synthesized and their antibacterial activity has been investigated. Their inclusion complexes with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) having composition [ML2(β-CD)·2H2O] or M(C60H88N8O39S2)], [M = Co(II) or Ni(II) and LH = IstscabH or IsttscabH] and [ML2(β-CD) or M(C60H84N6O-37S2)], [M = Zn(II) or Cd(II) and LH = IstscabH or IsttscabH] have also been isolated in solid states. All the synthesized metal complexes have been characterized by analytical data, molar conductance, magnetic susceptibility, electronic and infrared spectral studies. The tetrahedral geometry for Zn(II) and Cd(II) and octahederal geometry for Co(II) and Ni(II) have been assigned on the basis of magnetic susceptibility, UV electronic transitions and IR spectral bands assignments. The structures are retained in inclusion products. A biological activity of Schiff bases, their metal complexes and inclusion products for bacteria Escherichia. coli, Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus have been screened and activity explained.

Theoretical and Experimental Investigations on Inclusion Complex β-Cyclodextrin and Sulcatone: A Cardiovascular Activity Evaluation

In this paper, we have applied state-of-the-art technologies and new investigations were developed focusing on obtaining simple and inexpensive molecules for treating cardiovascular diseases, as they are considered the leading cause of death in the world. For the first time, the inclusion complex of sulcatone (SU) and β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) was achieved (using a spray drier) and characterized making use of spectroscopic, thermal and computational methods. In addition, the system was evaluated regarding its vasorelaxant properties. Evidence of the inclusion complex formation was provided using different techniques, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopies and then deduced by pharmacological experiments, which showed significant changes in relation to the initial material.

Preparation and Characterization of the β-Cyclodextrin Inclusion Complex with Benzbromarone

Benzbromarone (BZB) is a drug that has diuretic activity and is used in the gout treatment. Its therapeutic efficiency is decreased by its low water solubility (11.8 mg L-1) and highly hydrophobic aspect (logP 2.7), which are responsible for affecting its intestinal absorption and bioavailability. BZB inclusion complex (IC) aims at increasing the drug solubility in water and reduce adverse effects resulting in more efficient formulations. The coprecipitation encapsulating method was used to obtain the IC of BZB in β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) and the complex (BZB@β-CD) was characterized via physical-chemical analysis. A comparative study of time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT) and configuration interaction singles (CIS), along with “our own N-layered integrated molecular orbital and molecular mechanics” (ONIOM) method, has been carried out on the UV-Vis absorption of BZB and BZB@β-CD. The qualitative description of the simulated spectrum, given by ONIOM(CIS:PM6), is in accord with the formation of BZB@β-CD. It only became possible when phosphate buffer (pH 7.4) was used to prepare the solutions, since the complex formation did not occur in deionized water or buffered acid. Furthermore, by using the Job plot, the Scatchard method and fluorescence, it was possible to conclude that the complex molecular stoichiometry was 1:1 (1 BZB to 1 β-CD).

Computational study of inclusion complex between Omeprazole enantiomer and β-Cyclodextrin: NBO and RDG analysis

In this study, it has been done NBO and RDG analysis of the R/S-Omeprazole and β-Cyclodextrin inclusion complexes by using density functional theory computational method, one-point calculation with the exchange-correlation functional of B3LYP and basis set of 6-31g (d). The results of the NBO analysis show that there are 7, 52, 5, and 44 of hydrogen bonds in the inclusion complex of β-Cyclodextrin and R-Omeprazole (1: 1), β-Cyclodextrin and R-Omeprazole (2: 1), β-Cyclodextrin and S-Omeprazole (1: 1), and β-Cyclodextrin and S-Omeprazole (2: 1), respectively. The results of the RDG analysis confirm that the R/S-Omeprazole inclusion complex with β-Cyclodextrin formed a Van der Waals interaction and also the effect of other than hydrogen bonds. However, the steric effect can be ignored because the amount is relatively small compared to hydrogen bonds and the Van der Waals interactions.

Progesterone loaded thermosensitive hydrogel for vaginal application: Formulation and in vitro comparison with commercial product

Progesterone (PGT) is a natural hormone that stimulates and regulates various important functions, such as the preparation of the female body for conception and pregnancy. Due to its low water solubility, it is administered in a micronized form and/or in vehicles with specific solvents requirements. In order to improve the drug solubility, inclusion complexes of PGT and β-cyclodextrins were obtained by the freeze-drying method. Two β-cyclodextrins (native and methylated) in two solvents (water and water:ethanol) and different molar ratio of the reagents were the variables tested for the selection of the best condition for the preparation of the complexes. The PGT/randomly methylated-β-cyclodextrin complexes were incorporated into chitosan thermosensitive hydrogels, as an alternative formulation for the vaginal administration of PGT. Neither the micro and macroscopic characteristics of the gels nor the transition time from solution to gel were modified after the complexes incorporation. In addition, chitosan gels with complexes resisted better the degradation in simulated vaginal fluid in comparison to commercial gel (Crinone®). The chitosan gel with inclusion complexes and Crinone® were tested in vitro in a diffusion assay to evaluate the delivery of the hormone and its diffusion through porcine epithelial mucosa obtained from vaginal tissue. Chitosan gel presented sustained diffusion similar to the exhibited by commercial gel. The use of chitosan gels with inclusion complexes based on cyclodextrins would be a viable alternative for vaginal administration of PGT.

Inclusion Complexes of Lycopene and β-Cyclodextrin: Preparation, Characterization, Stability and Antioxidant Activity

In this study, the inclusion complexes of lycopene with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) were prepared by the precipitation method. Then the inclusion complexes were characterized by the scanning electron microscopy (SEM), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV), microscopic observation, liquid chromatography, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and phase-solubility study. Moreover, the stability and antioxidant activity were tested. The results showed that lycopene was embedded into the cavity of β-CD with a 1:1 stoichiometry. Moreover, the thermal and irradiant stabilities of lycopene were all significantly increased by the formation of lycopene/β-CD inclusion complexes. Antioxidant properties of lycopene and its inclusion complexes were evaluated on the basis of measuring the scavenging activity for 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), hydroxyl and superoxide anion radicals. The results showed that the scavenging activity of DPPH radicals was obviously increased by the formation of the inclusion complex with β-cyclodextrin at concentrations of 5–30 μg/mL, however, some significant positive effects on the scavenging activity of hydroxyl and superoxide anion radicals were not observed and the reasons are worth further study.