Maximum Encapsulation Efficiency Research Articles

Enhanced Stability of Oral Vitamin C Delivery: A Novel Large-Scale Method for Liposomes Production and Encapsulation through Dynamic High-Pressure Microfluidization.

In recent years, nanocarriers have been widely used as an effective solution for oral administration of pharmaceuticals. However, there is still an urgent need to speed up their translation to clinical practice. Cost-effective and industrially scalable methodologies are still needed. Herein, the production of vitamin C-loaded liposomes for nutraceutical purposes has been investigated and optimized by adopting a High-Pressure Homogenizer. Initially, the impact of process parameters on particles size, distributions, and morphology was explored. The findings document that the pressure and cycle manipulation allow for control over liposome size and polydispersity, reaching a maximum encapsulation efficiency exceeding 80%. This significantly improves the storage stability of vitamin C, as demonstrated by monitoring its antioxidant activity. Furthermore, the in vitro simulation of gastrointestinal digestion shows that liposomes could protect the active substance from damage and control its release in the gastrointestinal fluid. Thus, the whole nanodelivery system can contribute to enhancing vitamin C bioavailability. In conclusion, the results indicate that this innovative approach to producing vitamin C liposomes holds promise for clinical translation and industrial scale-up. Indeed, by utilizing food-grade materials and straightforward equipment, it is possible to produce stable and functional liposomes suitable for health products.

Comparative survival study of Bacillus coagulans and Enterococcus faecium microencapsulated in chitosan-alginate nanoparticles in simulated gastrointestinal condition

Probiotics have poor gastrointestinal delivery because they lose their viability during intestinal passage. Microencapsulation has a significant effect on the survival of probiotic bacteria. This study aimed to synthesize chitosan-alginate nanoparticles and encapsulate Bacillus coagulans NBRC-12583 and Enterococcus faecium MGFR1 in alginate (Alg), chitosan (Cht) and inulin (Inu) by micro- and nano-encapsulation to investigate the viability of encapsulated strains in simulated gastrointestinal condition. The survival of free and encapsulated bacteria was studied for 120 min. The population of B. coagulans encapsulated in Cht-Alg only decreased by 0.86 log CFU, while that of E. faecium encapsulated in Cht-Alg nanoparticles only decreased by 0.27 log CFU. Treated with simulated intestinal fluid, B. coagulans and E. faecium populations decreased by 1.03 and 0.17 log CFU, respectively. E. faecium microencapsulated in Cht-Alg and Inu had a maximum encapsulation efficiency of 96.78%. E. faecium encapsulated in Cht-Alg nanoparticles and Inu was more viable than other encapsulated bacteria. Scanning electron microscopy was done to investigate the microcapsules' surface morphology, structure, internal cross-sectional view, and the zeta potential for the surface charge of Cht-Alg nanoparticles. The viability of the probiotic bacteria was enhanced significantly by microencapsulation and nanomaterial-based encapsulation within the chitosan-alginate and inulin matrix.

Self-assembly embedding of curcumin by alkylated rice bran protein

Lysine-rich rice bran protein (RBP) can be used as raw material for alkylation modification to improve the self-assembly performance of protein. The results of 1H NMR, degree of alkylation, and DSC analysis showed that the alkyl chain was successfully attached to the RBP. The surface hydrophobicity and absolute ζ-potential increased. The three-dimensional structure of the alkylated RBP (ARBP) become more porous and ARBP-2 was selected as the material for embedding curcumin. The XRD results revealed that curcumin induced self-aggregation of ARBP-2 and the inclusion of curcumin was attained. The maximum encapsulation efficiency of curcumin was 82.67 % and the maximum loading amount was 171.37 g/100 g RBP. The results of atomic force microscopy (AFM), particle size, and polydispersity index (PDI) analyses revealed that the particles in the system were aggregated after curcumin was added. Curcumin was well protected by encapsulation in the self-assembled particles. Thus, this study provides a new strategy for the embedding and delivery of curcumin.

Preparation and characterization of whey protein isolate-dextran-proanthocyanidins ternary complexes: Formation mechanism, physicochemical stability

The present study aimed to improve the stability and antioxidant properties of whey protein isolate (WPI) in food emulsion systems. A whey protein isolate-dextran (D) binary complex (GF) was prepared using wet Melad reaction. Based on this, a ternary complex (GF-PC) system of whey protein isolate-dextran-proanthocyanidins (PC) was constructed. The interaction mechanism and functional properties of this ternary system were investigated by turbidity, Fourier infrared, and fluorescence spectroscopy, as well as DPPH radical scavenging ability. Results showed that a novel ternary composite system was successfully constructed. The maximum encapsulation efficiency of PC was 93.09% when using the GF-0.4 PC complex (the mass ratio of GF to PC was 1:0.4). Turbidity, fluorescence spectroscopy, and FTIR spectroscopy analyses showed that PC was successfully encapsulated by GF and formed the ternary complex. SDS-PAGE and interaction forces showed that the noncovalent contacts increased significantly, while covalent interactions remained the main interaction between WPI, D, and PC. The GF-PC ternary complexes significantly improved emulsification properties and free radical scavenging ability compared to single WPI and GF conjugates. This study suggested that GF-PC could be used as a delivery system for functional active ingredients with enhanced emulsifying activity and antioxidant capacity.

Improving the functional characteristics of thymol-loaded pullulan and whey protein isolate-based electrospun nanofiber

The encapsulation of thymol blends was examined for two distinct food polymers, pullulan and whey protein isolate at a concentration of 80:20 (PUL:WPI w/w) through coaxial electrospinning. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) presented clear illustrations of successful thymol encapsulation in nanofibers with bead-like structures and increased diameter as compared to nanofibers without thymol. The maximum encapsulation efficiency (87.05 ± 1.18%) and loading capacity (17.41 ± 0.24%) of thymol (2%) in (80:20) PUL:WPI nanofibers (THY-WP-NF) have been achieved. The attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) peaks indicated the presence of thymol within the nanofibers, while X-ray diffraction results demonstrated that the thymol existed in an amorphous state within the nanofibers. Furthermore, the encapsulation process led to an increase in the stability (under light and temperature) of thymol, as well as facilitated targeted release in the small intestine. THY-PW-NF exhibited better in-vitro inhibition activity against alpha-amylase (66.44%), alpha-glucosidase (80.37%) and pancreatic lipase enzymes (65.60%), along with DPPH and ABTS radicals. Conclusively, THY-PW-NF can be utilized in food and pharmaceutical products owing to a large surface area with improved water solubility, antioxidant activity, high-temperature stability and antidiabetic activity of thymol.

Paclitaxel-loaded niosomes in combination with metformin: development, characterization and anticancer potentials.

Aim: This study aims to assess the efficacy of free and niosomes-loaded paclitaxel combined with the anti-diabetic drug metformin. Methods: Paclitaxel was successfully encapsulated in all niosome formulations, using microfluidic mixing, with a maximum encapsulation efficiency of 11.9%. Results: The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) for free paclitaxel in T47D cells was significantly reduced from 0.2 to 0.048mg/ml when combined with metformin 40mg. The IC50 of paclitaxel was significantly reduced when loaded in niosomes to less than 0.06mg/ml alone or with metformin. Conclusion: Paclitaxel combination (free or loaded into niosomes) with metformin significantly improved the anticancer efficacy of paclitaxel, which can serve as a method to reduce the paclitaxel dose and its associated side effects.

Optimization, characterization, and cytotoxicity studies of novel anti-tubercular agent-loaded liposomal vesicles

The treatment of tuberculosis is still a challenging process due to the widespread of pathogen strains resistant to antibacterial drugs, as well as the undesirable effects of anti-tuberculosis therapy. Hence, the development of safe and effective new anti-antitubercular agents, in addition to suitable nanocarrier systems, has become of utmost importance and necessity. Our research aims to develop liposomal vesicles that contain newly synthesized compounds with antimycobacterial action. The compound being studied is a derivative of imidazo-tetrazine named 3-(3,5-dimethylpyrazole-1-yl)-6-(isopropylthio) imidazo [1,2-b] [1,2,4,5] tetrazine compound. Several factors that affect liposomal characteristics were studied. The maximum encapsulation efficiency was 53.62 ± 0.09. The selected liposomal formulation T8* possessed a mean particle size of about 205.3 ± 3.94 nm with PDI 0.282, and zeta potential was + 36.37 ± 0.49 mv. The results of the in vitro release study indicated that the solubility of compound I was increased by its incorporation in liposomes. The free compound and liposomal preparation showed antimycobacterial activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv (ATCC 27294) at MIC value 0.94–1.88 μg/ml. We predict that the liposomes may be a good candidate for delivering new antitubercular drugs.

Cinnamon essential oil/inulin inclusion complexes: Physicochemical, rheological, thermal, morphological, and antimicrobial properties

AbstractCinnamon essential oil (CEO), an excellent source of active antimicrobial compounds, has a strong flavor and extreme volatility, which limits its application in the food industry. The objective of this study was to encapsulate CEO into inulin (INL) by freeze‐drying at selected concentrations (10%–20% w/w). Encapsulates containing 15% CEO exhibited the maximum encapsulation efficiency (63.30%). The concentrations of CEO significantly influenced the melting of encapsulates and their melt rheology. Oscillatory rheology data displayed abnormalities in the rheograms with increasing CEO concentrations in encapsulates. X‐ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy peaks demonstrated the formation of successful encapsulations. The cracks on the encapsulated surface were visualized through SEM, and a variation in topography was quantified by atomic force microscopy measurements. The INL/CEO encapsulates demonstrated antimicrobial activity against selected pathogens, namely Salmonella Typhimurium and Listeria monocytogenes. The produced encapsulates have the potential to be used as intermediary products for food, pharmaceuticals, and packaging.Practical applicationsEncapsulates effectively retain the bioactive compounds of essential oils in a complex and release them through controlled mechanisms. These encapsulates have significant industrial applications in active packaging, flavor retention, and pharmaceutics.

Chitosan-PVA-PVP/nano-clay composite: a promising tool for controlled drug delivery.

In this study, chitosan, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) were used to create ternary blends reinforced with organically modified montmorillonite nanoclay. Tramadol was used as a model drug to assess the efficacy of these ternary blends as drug delivery systems. The current work demonstrated the highly controlled release of tramadol via transdermal administration. The results of the FTIR investigation revealed the compatibility of the blending components. Among non-drug-loaded formulations, MC6 is the most stable with a 17.6% weight residue at 505 °C and MC11 is the most stable of all the drug-loaded and non-drug-loaded formulations with a weight residue of 22.0% at 505 °C. The XRD studies of the prepared formulations showed crystalline behavior. However, the SEM analysis revealed that no gaps or mixing components were uniformly dispersed in the nanocomposites. Pharmaceutical tests, such as swelling, dissolution, and permeation rates, revealed a strong influence of the PVA concentration. There was a uniform distribution of drug throughout the films with maximum encapsulation efficiency found for MC7 (96.09 ± 0.31) and minimum encapsulation efficiency for MC11 (90.56 ± 0.34)%. Compared to the sodium acetate (pH 4.5) and potassium phosphate buffers (pH 6.8) the swelling and erosion were higher in hydrochloric acid buffer (pH 1.2). An increase in PVA concentration (or decrease in PVP concentration) increases the swelling, dissolution, and permeation rates. In addition, erosion increased with increasing PVP concentration. Furthermore, the nanoclay-reinforced composite showed high permeation. Based on the obtained results, it can be concluded that the produced nanocomposite could be used as an efficient transdermal drug delivery system.

Effect of wall material on lipophilic functional compounds of high oleic palm oil emulsions encapsulated by Refractance Window drying

High-oleic palm oil is a food-grade oil with desirable properties, as it is characterised by having an oleic acid concentration above 50 % and a high vitamin E and provitamin A content. This study investigated the effect of different combinations of two wall materials (whey protein (WP) and Capsul®, a commercial octenyl succinic anhydride modified starch (OSA-MS)) on the concentration of provitamin A, vitamin E and oleic acid, and the physical properties of high oleic palm oil emulsions encapsulated by Refractance Window drying technology. Wall material composition significantly affected (p < 0.05) all response variables, and R2 values were above 0.75 for all responses. Phytonutrient preservation showed its highest at an OSA-MS: WP concentration ratio of 1: 3. Optimal results were achieved (minimum moisture content, water activity and hygroscopicity, and maximum encapsulation efficiency and phytonutrient preservation) at an OSA-MS concentration of 8.13 % and WP concentration of 91.87 %. Flakes were obtained as a solid structure that protects oil's phytonutrients with 94 %, 75 % and 87 % of preservation of oleic acid, vitamin E and carotenoids, respectively. It shows that the wall material combination and encapsulation technique are suitable for obtaining lipophilic functional compounds.

Drug loading comparison of commercial ibuprofen on magnetite nanoparticles surface by UV–Vis spectrophotometry and acid-alkali titration by a factorial design of experiments

The drug efficacy for the pathologies treatments depends on several physicochemical properties of the drug. Among these, solubility is one of the most important and is directly related to the bioavailability of the drug. Ibuprofen is a popular drug used for the treatment of different diseases. However, its dissolution rate in aqueous media is limited, which causes undesirable adverse effects on the patient. One of the possibilities to solve this challenge is loading ibuprofen on the surface of the nanoparticles for drug delivery. However, some challenges related to complicated experimental procedures, expensive chemical precursors, the techniques for ibuprofen quantification, and the loading efficiency continue to be a problem. This work reports the synthesis of magnetite nanoparticles and the straightforward loading with commercial ibuprofen in a mixed ethanol/water solution without intermediate surfactants, stabilizers, or linkers. XRD, SEM, FT-IR, Magnetometry, UV–Vis Spectrophotometry, and DLS techniques allowed for determining the samples' structure, morphology, functional groups, magnetism, and agglomerate size. A complete factorial Design of Experiments allowed for comparing the encapsulation efficiency for two exposure and centrifugation times (20 and 40 min) by UV–VIS and Acid-alkali titration. The results suggest that the magnetic separation and centrifugation (< 2000 RPM) were inappropriate for nanoparticle decantation. This produces an underestimation of the ibuprofen adsorbed by the nanoparticles. Under our experimental conditions, 20 min is enough to achieve maximum encapsulation efficiency (14%) without surfactants or binders.

Extraction of chrysin from propolis and its selective encapsulation in synthetic/natural surfactant-based micelles

The encapsulation characteristics of chrysin (important flavonoid with potential food, pharmaceutical, and biomedical applications) was studied with nonionic surfactants Triton X-114 (TX) and Quillaja Saponin (QS), individually. The factors influencing the encapsulation efficiency (EE) of standard chrysin that is surfactant concentration, pH, NaCl concentration, and chrysin concentration were analyzed. The maximum EE of standard chrysin was found to be 98.23 ± 1.63% with TX micelles and 83 ± 2.31% with QS micelles under the following conditions: 0.02 mg/mL standard chrysin, 5% NaCl, pH 7, and 4% w/w TX 6% w/w QS. Selective extraction of chrysin from propolis was tried using three extraction techniques namely Maceration, Microwave-assisted Extraction (MAE), and Maceration with Microwave-assisted Extraction (MMAE). MAE, which gave a chrysin yield of 3 mg/g, was deemed the most suitable method for chrysin extraction from propolis. This MAE crude extract was subjected to encapsulation under the conditions previously optimized for standard chrysin. Specific encapsulation of chrysin from the propolis crude extract was achieved, with an EE of 92 ± 0.86% with TX and 84.97 ± 1.34% with QS. The encapsulated chrysin was characterized using particle size analysis and antioxidant activity. TX system was found to be the most suitable for the encapsulation, as it was able to selectively encapsulate chrysin from propolis, despite the presence of other interfering flavonoids in the crude extract. The microwave-assisted extraction combined with surfactant-based micellar encapsulation can be said to be an effective process for the extraction and encapsulation of chrysin from propolis.

Functionalization of surfactant templated magnetite by chitosan and PEGylated/Chitosan – In vitro studies on drug loading, release and anti-proliferative activity

Magnetite iron oxide nanoparticles (MNPs) were synthesized using micro emulsion assisted co-precipitation method. The surface functionalization of MNPs was done with chitosan and PEGylated/chitosan and three samples of each were prepared. These materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). The Methotrexate (MTX) drug was then loaded on each functionalized MNPs as MCT-1–3 (chitosan; 0.1,0.5, and 1%) and MPCT-1–3 (PEGylated/chitosan (1% each with volume ratio 1:1, 3:1, and 1:3). Each composition showed maximum encapsulation efficiency (>95%). The pH dependent drug release studies were done under acidic (pH 5.0) and physiological (pH 7.4) conditions. These studies revealed consistent drug release and no burst release was observed from both functionalized MNPs. A comparatively delayed release from MPCTs than MCTs could be attributed to the formation of more compact sphere due to cross-linking of chitosan with PEG. The drug release was found greater at pH 5.0 for all functionalized MNPs. However, among all functionalized MNPs, maximum drug release was found to be 78.88% by MPCT-1 in acidic medium (pH 5.0). Cyclic voltametric (CV) analysis at slow scan rate (10 mV/s) further indicated controlled drug release and complimented the UV-findings. The MCF-7 (human breast cancer) cell line studies, however, indicated anticancer potential only for MPCT-1–3 with IC50 values ranging from 1.4 to 1.7 μM. Overall results pointed that methotrexate loaded PEGylated/chitosan coated magnetic nanoparticles MPCT-1 is the more compassionate material to be used as vehicle for controlled drug delivery.

Effect of co-encapsulation of Lactobacillus acidophilus LA5 and selenium in hydrogelated matrix of basil seed mucilage/sodium caseinate on properties of set yogurt

This study aims to prepare and optimize basil seed mucilage and sodium caseinate as a biocomposite wall to co-encapsulate Lactobacillus acidophilus LA5 and selenium. The efficacy of this biocomposite wall in improving the viability of L. acidophilus LA5 under in vitro acidic conditions was investigated. The mixture design method was applied to find optimal ratio of basil seed mucilage/sodium caseinate as components of the capsule wall. The maximum encapsulation efficiency of the selenium and L. acidophilus LA5 and the minimum zeta potential led to the selection of the optimal ratio of basil seed mucilage/sodium caseinate (basil seed mucilage 58.27% and sodium caseinate 41.73%). Possible cross-linking of basil seed mucilage and sodium caseinate, thermal properties, crystal structure, and morphology of the capsule were investigated using FTIR, DSC, XRD, and SEM tests, respectively. The composite wall of basil seed mucilage/sodium caseinate significantly enhanced the viability of encapsulated L. acidophilus LA5 in comparison to the control sample (free L. acidophilus LA5) (p < 0.05). Five yogurt samples were produced, including samples with free probiotic, free probiotic bacterium and selenium, free selenium, control (no probiotic bacterium and selenium), and probiotic yogurt with encapsulated selenium and probiotic bacterium. The physical, chemical, sensorial, and microbial characteristics of yogurt samples were investigated during storage for 21 days at 4 °C. Yoghurt enriched with free selenium and microcapsules (co-encapsulated probiotic and selenium) had minimum and maximum viscosities, respectively (p < 0.05). In addition, the probiotic yogurt sample with encapsulated L. acidophilus LA5 and selenium received a higher overall acceptance score than the other treatments (p < 0.05). As a result, basil seed mucilage and sodium caseinate based composite wall was demonstrated great potential to encapsulate probiotics and selenium for application in yogurt formulation.

Bifidobacteria Encapsulation and Viability of Probiotic Culture during Oral Delivery in a Milk Drink Matrix.

The use of an alginate hydrogel exclusively for the immobilization of bifidobacteria during oral delivery led to a decrease in the total number of bifidobacteria to 4.0 lg CFU/ml in pH gradients in models of the stomach and intestines, which required clarification of the composition of the protective coating. The introduction of resistant starch into the composition of the microcapsule contributed to the preservation of the viability of immobilized bifidobacteria up to 87% of the initial concentration when passing through the model environment simulating the human digestion system. The introduction of sodium carboxymethylcellulose into the composition of the hydrogel contributed to the regulation of the degradation of the polymer matrix and the controlled release of bifidobacteria. The use of sodium carboxymethylcellulose 0.5% in the formation of a polymer microcapsule provided the maximum encapsulation efficiency of 93.2% and the maximum decay rate of bacteria-loaded microcapsules of 95.7%. The modified alginate matrix contributes to maintaining the level of viable cells of probiotic microorganisms (Bifidobacterium bifidum 791) of at least 108 CFU/g when stored for three weeks. As a result of the research, a system for oral delivery of immobilized bifidobacteria in the structure of microparticles with a closed surface in the matrix of a milk drink has been developed, which increases the effectiveness of probiotics for human health in the composition of food products.

Encapsulation efficiency and fatty acid analysis of chia seed oil microencapsulated by freeze-drying using combinations of wall material

Chia seed oil (CSO) was encapsulated using whey protein concentrate (WPC) and modified tapioca starch (MTS) through freeze-drying. A central composite design was used to evaluate the effect of independent variables (MTS:WPC ratio, homogenization pressure, and oil content). Encapsulation efficiency (EE) and α-linolenic acid content (ALA) were evaluated for all runs. The results showed that higher MTS ratios led to maximum ALA retention, while higher WPC ratios led to maximum EE. The optimized conditions resulted in high EE (97 %), ALA content (59.54 %), and a Ω-3:Ω-6 ratio (3.34). The fatty acid composition, oxidative and thermal stability showed that the MTS:WPC ratio of 25:75 was the best combination for encapsulating CSO. The encapsulated CSO with a balanced Ω-3:Ω-6 ratio can be used as a functional ingredient in foods for health benefits.

Formulation of Piperine-Loaded Nanoemulsion: In Vitro Characterization, Ex Vivo Evaluation, and Cell Viability Assessment.

Piperine is an alkaloid, but its therapeutic efficacy is limited due to poor aqueous solubility. In this study, piperine nanoemulsions were prepared using oleic acid (oil), Cremophore EL (surfactant), and Tween 80 (co-surfactant) using the high-energy ultrasonication approach. The optimal nanoemulsion (N2) was further evaluated using transmission electron microscopy, release, permeation, antibacterial, and cell viability studies based on minimal droplet size and maximum encapsulation efficiency. The prepared nanoemulsions (N1-N6) showed a transmittance of more than 95%, a mean droplet size between 105 ± 4.11 and 250 ± 7.4 nm, a polydispersity index of 0.19 to 0.36, and a ζ potential of -19 to -39 mV. The optimized nanoemulsion (N2) showed significantly improved drug release and permeation compared with pure piperine dispersion. The nanoemulsions were stable in the tested media. The transmission electron microscopy image showed a spherical and dispersed nanoemulsion droplet. The antibacterial and cell line results of piperine nanoemulsions were significantly better than the pure piperine dispersion. The findings suggested that piperine nanoemulsions may be a more advanced nanodrug delivery system than conventional ones.

Oral Delivery of Anti-Parasitic Agent-Loaded PLGA Nanoparticles: Enhanced Liver Targeting and Improved Therapeutic Effect on Hepatic Alveolar Echinococcosis.

Alveolar echinococcosis (AE) is a lethal parasitic disease caused by infection with the metacestode of the dog/fox tapeworm Echinococcus multilocularis, which primarily affects the liver. Although continued efforts have been made to find new drugs against this orphan and neglected disease, the current treatment options remain limited, with drug delivery considered a likely barrier for successful treatment. Nanoparticles (NPs) have gained much attention in the field of drug delivery due to their potential to improve delivery efficiency and targetability. In this study, biocompatible PLGA nanoparticles encapsulating a novel carbazole aminoalcohol anti-AE agent (H1402) were prepared to promote the delivery of the parent drug to liver tissue for treating hepatic AE. H1402-loaded nanoparticles (H1402-NPs) had a uniform spherical shape and a mean particle size of 55 nm. Compound H1402 was efficiently encapsulated into PLGA NPs with a maximal encapsulation efficiency of 82.1% and drug loading content of 8.2%. An in vitro uptake assay demonstrated that H1402-NPs rapidly penetrated the in vitro cultured pre-cyst wall and extensively accumulated in the pre-cysts of E. multilocularis within only 1 h. The biodistribution profile of H1402-NPs determined through ex vivo fluorescence imaging revealed significantly enhanced liver distribution compared to unencapsulated H1402, which translated to improved therapeutic efficacy and reduced systemic toxicity (especially hepatotoxicity and cytotoxicity) in a hepatic AE murine model. Following a 30-day oral regimen (100 mg/kg/day), H1402-NPs significantly reduced the parasitic burden in both the parasite mass (liver and metacestode total weight, 8.8%) and average metacestode size (89.9%) compared to unmedicated infected mice (both p-values < 0.05); the treatment outcome was more effective than those of albendazole- and free H1402-treated individuals. Our findings demonstrate the advantages of encapsulating H1402 into PLGA nanoparticles and highlight the potential of H1402-NPs as a promising liver-targeting therapeutic strategy for hepatic AE.

Effects of polymerization degree of short linear glucan on the properties of Pickering emulsion stabilized by short linear glucan /zein nanoparticles

Here we fabricated short linear glucan/zein (SLG/zein) complex nanoparticles using the reverse dropwise method and studied how the average SLG polymerization degree ( DPn̅) effects the complex nanoparticles’ physicochemical properties and emulsion stability. Using fourier transform infrared and fluorescence spectroscopies, we found that electrostatic interactions and hydrogen bonding were the main driving forces for complex nanoparticle formation. Furthermore, our wettability results showed that SLG with a low DPn̅ can neutralize zein’s hydrophobic properties, making the complex nanoparticles more suitable for stabilizing a Pickering emulsion. We then loaded the nanoparticles with curcumin and achieved a maximum encapsulation efficiency of 70.45%. After subjecting the emulsion to a three-step in vitro digestion process, we found that the complex nanoparticles with lower DPn̅values provided better protection against the biochemical conditions of gastric fluid, resulting in greater curcumin bioaccessibility. These results suggest that the SLG/zein complex nanoparticles have great potential to encapsulate bioactive ingredients as a Pickering emulsifier.

Polyvinyl alcohol nanoparticles loaded with propolis extract: Fabrication, characterization and antimicrobial activity.

Propolis has high potential beneficial bioactive properties such as anti-oxidative, antimicrobial, and anti-tumour activities. However, the bitter taste and the insolubility nature of propolis in water lead to some limitations in their usage in functional food applications. Herein, we evaluated the effects of nanoencapsulation of propolis at the different concentration levels (0, 0.4, 0.8, 1.0, and 1.2 %) into the polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) nanoparticles using the electrospraying method, on the structural, physical, antioxidant, antimicrobial and thermal properties. The results revealed that the fabricated nanocapsules (PVA-NPs) obtained under optimal conditions had uniform size distribution and unstable particles with small particle size between 104-258 nm, a polydispersity index <0.317, and a zeta potential between -5 and +5 mV. The maximum encapsulation efficiency of PVA-NPs was about 25.32 % for 1 % of the initial propolis loading level. DSC thermal experiments showed an increase in the thermal stability of the propolis loaded PVA nanoparticles as compared to the neat PVA nanoparticles. The percent inhibition of DPPH radical scavenging activity of the nanocapsules was between 80 and 89 %. SEM analysis revealed that PVA-NPs had a spherical shape with a rough surface and were composed of long and thin fibres at nanometric diameters. FT-IR analysis showed that no indications of any chemical reactions were found between the constituents of the core and wall material due to their physical mixing. Antibacterial efficacy was evaluated by the Broth dilution method and PVA-NPs exhibited good inhibitory activity against S. aureus at low concentration ratios, whereas it had no inhibitory activity against E. coli O157:H7. PVA-NPs fabricated using the electrospraying technique can be used for the development of a new promising natural and bioactive agent in the food and pharmaceutical industry.