Microencapsulation Techniques Research Articles

Advancing protein hydrolysis and phytosterol encapsulation: Emerging trends and innovations in protein-based microencapsulation techniques – A comprehensive review

Phytosterols represent a diverse and complex category of lipophilic bioactive compounds, exhibiting excellent pro-healthy properties. However, their consumption in daily diets is insufficient, and their application in food production is hindered by challenges such as low water solubility, high reactivity, and rapid degradation. The adoption of different protein or their structural modification as hydrolysates as wall material into microencapsulation techniques can be associated with improved solubility, enhanced bioaccessibility, increased bioavailability, and an extension of shelf life.This contribution provides an overview of advancements in modifying functional properties through various protein isolation methods and structural changes resulting from enzymatic hydrolysis. Additionally, the paper considers the state of the art in the utilization of various techniques and the composition of wall material in the encapsulation of phytosterols and other common lipophilic phytochemicals incorporated into delivery systems.Protein isolates obtained through novel methods of extraction may be characterized by an enhancement of their functional properties, which is crucial for the microencapsulation process. It entails not only recognizing their role as protective barriers for core materials against environmental conditions but also acknowledging their potential health-promoting attributes. These attributes encompass antioxidant properties and enhanced functional characteristics compared to native proteins. Moreover, the exploration of protein hydrolysates as versatile wall materials holds significant promise. These hydrolysates offer exceptional protective features for core materials, extending beyond mere environmental shielding. The envisioned impact extends beyond conventional delivery systems, offering transformative potential for the future of drug delivery and nutraceutical formulations.

Morphological Assessment of Thymol Essential Oil using Different Solvents and Stirring Time

Essential oils (EOs) have been used in numerous industries for ages including pharmaceutical, textile and food. Microencapsulation formulation and techniques are important to enhance the EOs characteristics and stability which could directly influence the yield and quality of EOs. This research paper evaluated the effect of using different solvents and stirring time on thymol EO microcapsules. Ethanol and methanol were used as solvents to encapsulate the core and wall material using a simple coacervation method. The microcapsules were collected at various time intervals which were 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, 120, 150, and 180 minutes. It has been noted that the stirring time influenced the size of microcapsules. Using Thymol oil, ethyl cellulose, methanol and polyvinyl alcohol (TM) produces the most microcapsules at 120 minutes of stirring time. The biggest microcapsule diameter was recorded at 90 min stirring time using formulation of thymol oil, ethyl cellulose, ethanol, and polyvinyl alcohol (TE). The encapsulation efficiency (EE) of both samples are 64.55% and 72.16%, respectively.

Effects of microencapsulated plant essential oils on growth performance, immunity, and intestinal health of weaned Tibetan piglets.

Plant essential oils (PEOs) have received significant attention in animal production due to their diverse beneficial properties and hold potential to alleviate weaning stress. However, PEOs effectiveness is often compromised by volatility and degradation. Microencapsulation can enhance the stability and control release rate of essential oils. Whether different microencapsulation techniques affect the effectiveness remain unknown. This study aimed to investigate the effects of PEOs coated by different microencapsulation techniques on growth performance, immunity, and intestinal health of weaned Tibetan piglets. A total of 120 Tibetan piglets, aged 30 days, were randomly divided into five groups with four replicates, each containing six piglets. The experimental period lasted for 32 days. The groups were fed different diets: a basal diet without antibiotics (NC), a basal diet supplemented with 10 mg/kg tylosin and 50 mg/kg colistin sulfate (PC), 300 mg/kg solidified PEO particles (SPEO), 300 mg/kg cold spray-coated PEO (CSPEO), or 300 mg/kg hot spray-coated PEO (HSPEO). The results showed that supplementation with SPEO, CSPEO, or HSPEO led to a notable decrease in diarrhea incidence and feed to gain ratio, as well as duodenum lipopolysaccharide content, while simultaneously increase in average daily gain, interleukin-10 (IL-10) levels and the abundance of ileum Bifidobacterium compared with the NC group (p < 0.05). Supplementation with SPEO, CSPEO, or HSPEO significantly elevated serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels and concurrently reduced serum lipopolysaccharide and interferon γ levels compared with the NC and PC groups (p < 0.05). Serum insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels in the SPEO and HSPEO groups significantly increased compared with the NC group (p < 0.05). Additionally, CSPEO and HSPEO significantly reduced jejunum pH value (p < 0.05) compared with the NC and PC groups (p<0.05). Additionally, Supplementation with HSPEO significantly elevated levels of serum immunoglobulin M (IgM) and interleukin-4 (IL-4), abundance of ileum Lactobacillus, along with decreased serum interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) levels compared with both the NC and PC groups. Our findings suggest that different microencapsulation techniques affect the effectiveness. Dietary supplemented with PEOs, especially HSPEO, increased growth performance, improved immune function, and optimized gut microbiota composition of weaned piglets, making it a promising feed additive in piglet production.

Effects of Resistant-Starch-Encapsulated Probiotic Cocktail on Intestines Damaged by 5-Fluorouracil.

Probiotics and prebiotics have gained attention for their potential health benefits. However, their efficacy hinges on probiotic survival through the harsh gastrointestinal environment. Microencapsulation techniques provide a solution, with resistant starch (RS)-based techniques showing promise in maintaining probiotic viability. Specifically, RS-encapsulated probiotics significantly improved probiotic survival in gastric acid, bile salts, and simulated intestinal conditions. This study investigated the effects of a resistant-starch-encapsulated probiotic cocktail (RS-Pro) in the context of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) chemotherapy, which frequently induces microbiota dysbiosis and intestinal mucositis. Female BALB/c mice were divided into three groups: a 5-FU group, a 5-FU+Pro group receiving free probiotics, and a 5-FU+RS-Pro group receiving RS-encapsulated probiotics. After 28 days of treatment, analyses were conducted on fecal microbiota, intestinal histology, peripheral blood cell counts, and body and organ weights. It was revealed by 16S rRNA MiSeq sequencing that 5-FU treatment disrupted gut microbiota composition, reduced microbial diversity, and caused dysbiosis. RS-Pro treatment restored microbial diversity and increased the population of beneficial bacteria, such as Muribaculaceae, which play roles in carbohydrate and polyphenol metabolism. Furthermore, 5-FU administration induced moderate intestinal mucositis, characterized by reduced cellularity and shortened villi. However, RS-Pro treatment attenuated 5-FU-induced intestinal damage, preserving villus length. Mild leukopenia observed in the 5-FU-treated mice was partially alleviated in 5-FU+Pro and 5-FU+RS-Pro groups. These findings suggest that RS-Pro may serve as an adjunct to chemotherapy, potentially reducing adverse effects and improving therapeutic outcomes in future clinical applications.

Microencapsulation: A Review

A process known as "microencapsulation" forms thin wall material coverings around things, which can be gases, liquids, or even solids, and encases them in tiny particles. Small entities with an active ingredient known as the core material encased in a covering substance or embedded in a matrix structure are known as microencapsulated products, or micro particles. The overview includes information on encapsulating materials, preparation methods, the physics of release through the capsule wall, microcapsule characterization, and the many applications of microcapsules. The review, "State of Art of Microencapsulation of Microcapsule Preparation Process Technology," is a reputable resource on the creation, characteristics, and applications of novel small particles that are individually encapsulated. It also covers popular microencapsulation techniques and their benefits and drawbacks, as well as the broader applications of these techniques in the fields of pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, agriculture, food technologies, and textiles.

Microencapsulation to Harness the Antimicrobial Potential of Essential Oils and Their Applicability in Dairy Products: A Comprehensive Review of the Literature.

This literature review explores cutting-edge microencapsulation techniques designed to enhance the antimicrobial efficacy of essential oils in dairy products. As consumer demand for natural preservatives rises, understanding the latest advancements in microencapsulation becomes crucial for improving the shelf life and safety of these products. The bibliometric analysis utilized in this review highlighted a large number of documents published on this topic in relation to the following keywords: essential oils, AND antimicrobials, AND dairy products, OR microencapsulation. The documents published in the last 11 years, between 2013 and 2023, showed a diversity of authors and countries researching this topic and the keywords commonly used. However, in the literature consulted, no study was identified that was based on bibliometric analysis and that critically evaluated the microencapsulation of essential oils and their antimicrobial potential in dairy products. This review synthesizes findings from diverse studies, shedding light on the various encapsulation methods employed and their impact on preserving the quality of dairy goods. Additionally, it discusses the potential applications and challenges associated with implementation in the dairy industry. This comprehensive analysis aims to provide valuable insights for researchers, food scientists, and industry professionals seeking to optimize the use of essential oils with antimicrobial properties in dairy formulations.

Embedding Bioprinting of Low Viscous, Photopolymerizable Blood-Based Bioinks in a Crystal Self-Healing Transparent Supporting Bath.

Protein-based hydrogels have great potential to be used as bioinks for biofabrication-driven tissue regeneration strategies due to their innate bioactivity. Nevertheless, their use as bioinks in conventional 3D bioprinting is impaired due to their intrinsic low viscosity. Using embedding bioprinting, a liquid bioink is printed within a support that physically holds the patterned filament. Inspired by the recognized microencapsulation technique complex coacervation, crystal self-healing embedding bioprinting (CLADDING) is introduced based on a highly transparent crystal supporting bath. The suitability of distinct classes of gelatins is evaluated (i.e., molecular weight distribution, isoelectric point, and ionic content), as well as the formation of gelatin-gum arabic microparticles as a function of pH, temperature, solvent, and mass ratios. Characterizing and controlling this parametric window resulted in high yields of support bath with ideal self-healing properties for interaction with protein-based bioinks. This support bath achieved transparency, which boosted light permeation within the bath. Bioprinted constructs fully composed of platelet lysates encapsulating a co-culture of human mesenchymal stromal cells and endothelial cells are obtained, demonstrating a high-dense cellular network with excellent cell viability and stability over a month. CLADDING broadens the spectrum of photocrosslinkable materials with extremely low viscosity that can now be bioprinted with sensitive cells without any additional support.

A Brief Review on the Current Trends in Microencapsulation

Microencapsulation has emerged as a pivotal technology in the field of novel drug delivery systems (NDDS), offering significant advantages in enhancing the efficacy, safety, and patient compliance of therapeutic agents. This cutting-edge technique involves encapsulating active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) within microscopic protective coatings, enabling controlled release, targeted delivery, and improved bioavailability. Microencapsulation has proven to be a versatile tool in addressing various pharmaceutical challenges, such as masking unpleasant tastes, protecting sensitive drugs from degradation, and modifying the absorption site of drugs. This comprehensive review aims to provide an in-depth understanding of microencapsulation, its principles, techniques, and diverse applications in the pharmaceutical industry. The article delves into the reasons for employing microencapsulation, including extended or sustained drug release, taste and odor masking, conversion of liquids into free-flowing powders, and stabilization of light, moisture, or oxygen-sensitive drugs. Additionally, the classification of microparticles based on their core and shell materials is discussed. Furthermore, the review explores the advantages and disadvantages of microencapsulation, highlighting its ability to protect encapsulated active agents, transform gases and liquids into solid particles, modify surface and colloidal properties, and alter the release profiles of drugs. Various microencapsulation techniques are extensively covered, including air suspension, coacervation phase separation, pan coating, spray drying and spray congealing, and solvent evaporation. The applications of microencapsulation span across diverse industries, such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, agrochemicals, and food. This review provides insights into the utilization of microencapsulated products in these sectors, emphasizing their role in enhancing product functionality, stability, and controlled release

Microwave-assisted extraction, encapsulation, and bioaccessibility of carotenoids from organic tomato industry by-product

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is a widely consumed fruit in the world. Discarded biomass has a huge potential, as tomato peel is rich in carotenoid content. This study focuses on the recovery of carotenoids from tomato industry agro-wastes, specifically peel and seeds. Initially, the conventional method was employed to analyze the sample, determining a total carotenoid content of 3.19 ± 0.23 mg β-carotene eq/g dry matter. A carotenoid profiling of the sample revealed high concentration of 5-cis-lycopene (1340.1 ± 15.6 μg all-trans-β-carotene eq/g dry matter), 9-cis lycopene (1062.7 ± 12.8 μg all-trans-β-carotene eq/g dry matter) and all-trans-β-carotene (1246.4 ± 1.7 μg all-trans-β-carotene eq/g dry matter). Microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) was employed as a green extraction method to optimize biomass-solvent ratio (BSR), extraction time (ET), and microwave power (MP) for achieving maximum recovery of carotenoids. A surface response methodology based on a Box-Behnken design was used. The optimized extract (BSR 1:10 g:mL, ET 60 s, and MP 283.84 W) was microencapsulated using maltodextrin (MD) combined with either gum arabic (GA) or whey protein isolate (WP) as wall materials. Freeze-drying was utilized for capsule sealing. The properties of the encapsulates were characterized, including moisture content (0.99 ± 0.04% for MD:GA and 0.80 ± 0.07% for MD:WP), water activity (0.087 ± 0.01 for MD:GA and 0.084 ± 0.01 for MD:WP), dissolution rate (140.4 1 ± 6.41 s for MD:GA and 86.49 ± 1.68 s for MD:WP), tapped density (0.48 ± 0.01 g/mL for MD:GA and 0.44 ± 0.01 g/mL for MD:WP), drying yield (90.73 ± 3.34% for MD:GA and 89.73 ± 3.47% for MD:WP), and encapsulation efficiency (68.12 ± 1.42% for MD:GA and 74.55 ± 1.62% for MD:WP). Bioaccessibility studies for encapsulated extract revealed values of 27.68% ± 0.72 and 25.10% ± 0.04 for MD:GA and MD: WP, respectively. This research highlights the potential of tomato agro-wastes as a valuable source of bioactive compounds. The implementation of MAE and microencapsulation techniques demonstrates effective strategies for their recovery and preservation obtaining the optimal conditions for the MAE (BSR 1:10 g: mL, ET 60 s, and MP 283.84 W) and for the encapsulation (MD: WP mixture). These findings contribute to the valorization of tomato industry by-products and their potential application in functional food products.

Chitosan for improved encapsulation of thyme aqueous extract in alginate-based microparticles

Ionotropic gelation is a low-cost, easy and green microencapsulation technique. However, the encapsulation of highly soluble compounds is challenging because of the wide loss of material into the external water phase by passive diffusion and the consequent low encapsulation efficiency. In this work an important increase of encapsulation efficiency for Thymus vulgaris L. aqueous extract in alginate-based microparticles has been obtained. A formulation with the proper thyme extract/alginate ratio (30:70) was used as reference and then optimized by adding different co-carrier excipients. Microparticles obtained by dropping a solution containing thyme extract and alginate into a chitosan/calcium-chloride/acid acetic solution lead to a high encapsulation efficiency (70.43 ± 5.28 %). After drying, microparticles had a particle size of 1096 ± 72 μm, 20.087 ± 1.487 % of extract content, 6.2 % of residual water, and showed a complete release of thyme extract within one hour. Combining alginate and chitosan as polymeric co-carrier was a valuable option for efficiently encapsulating an aqueous extract by ionotropic gelation.

Energy Storage in Lightweight Aggregate and Pervious Concrete Infused with Phase Change Materials

This study explores the feasibility of utilizing pervious concrete (PC) incorporating diverse lightweight aggregates (LWAs) integrated with phase change materials (PCM) for applications where forced air cooling would be advantageous. The use of such a component provides latent and sensible heat that can cool forced air applications, offsetting ambient temperature increases that occur during the day. Macro- and microencapsulation techniques were used to incorporate inorganic PCM in the PC. The macro-encapsulation technique involved enclosure of PCM within a stable shell prior to addition into the concrete. The microencapsulation technique involved the impregnation of PCM into porous lightweight aggregate. To overcome the PCM reaction with the concrete constituents, an epoxy coating was utilized. The design of the PCM concrete mix and comprehensive laboratory assessment of porosity, water permeability, PCM absorption capacity, compressive strength, and microstructure of the LWAs are detailed. The test results indicate that LWAs have high PCM impregnation rates ranging from 32 % to 57 % by volume. The compressive strengths of PC using LWAs were reduced by 25 % to 65 % when using microencapsulation. The use of microencapsulation was found to reduce the pressure drop under air flow due to the increase in aggregate size as a result of the coating thickness. PCM-PC with a shell thickness of 100 mm, resulted in a pressure drop of less than 100 Pa at a velocity of 0.35 m/s. The use of macro-encapsulated PCM in PC was sensitive to the phase of the PCM, where the liquid phase reduced the compressive strength by 67 %. The failure occurred within the macro-encapsulated PCM at the liquid phase temperatures and at the interface between the encapsulated PCM at solid phase temperatures. The heat transfer provided by the LWA infused PCM when used in a packed aggregate bed or in PC, was shown to match expected latent and sensible heat estimates based on the thermal properties of the materials. This systematic investigation provides valuable insights into LWAs and PCM performance in pervious concrete, offering a comprehensive understanding of their interaction in cooling applications.

Advanced fabrication of complex biopolymer microcapsules via RSM-optimized supercritical carbon dioxide solution-enhanced dispersion: A comparative analysis of various microencapsulation techniques

This work aimed to enhance hemp seed oil encapsulation within a hemp seed protein-alginate complex by optimizing parameters in the solution-enhanced dispersion process, employing supercritical carbon dioxide (SEDS) without reliance on organic solvents or elevated temperatures. By response surface methodology (RSM), the microencapsulation efficacy (MEE), particle size (PS) and peroxide value (PV) was determined with respect to three parameters; temperature (°C), pressure (bar) and feed flow rate (mL/min). The optimum conditions were predicted at temperature (40 °C), pressure (150 bar) and feed flow rate (2 mL/min) to offer an MEE of 89.47%, PS of 7.81 μm and PV of 2.91 (meq/kg oil). In addition, the SEDS method was compared with spray- and freeze-drying for encapsulating hemp seed oil. The findings demonstrated SEDS' superiority, exhibiting exceptional attributes such as the highest MEE, smallest PS and the production of spherical, smooth microcapsules. This highlights its effectiveness in comparison to spray- and freeze-drying methods.

Enhancing Encapsulation Efficiency of Chavir Essential Oil via Enzymatic Hydrolysis and Ultrasonication of Whey Protein Concentrate-Maltodextrin.

This study focused on the characterization of emulsions and microparticles encapsulating Chavir essential oil (EO) by application of modified whey protein concentrate-maltodextrin (WPC-MD). Different physical, chemical, morphological, thermal, and antioxidant properties and release behavior of spray-dried microparticles were assessed. Antioxidant, solubility, emulsifying, and foaming activities of modified WPC were increased compared to those of primary material. The results indicated that the particle size distribution varied depending on the type of carriers used, with the smallest particles formed by hydrolyzed WPC (HWPC). Binary blends of modified WPC-MD led to improved particle sizes. The spray-drying yield ranged from 64.1% to 85.0%, with higher yields observed for blends of MD with sonicated WPC (UWPC). Microparticles prepared from primary WPC showed irregular and wrinkled surfaces with indentations and pores, indicating a less uniform morphology. The UWPC as a wall material led to microparticles with increased small cracks and holes on their surface. However, HWPC negatively affected the integrity of the microparticles, resulting in broken particles with irregular shapes and surface cracks, indicating poor microcapsule formation. Encapsulating EO using WPC-MD increased the thermal stability of EO significantly, enhancing the degradation temperature of EO by 2 to 2.5-fold. The application of primary WPC (alone or in combination with MD) as wall materials produced particles with the lowest antioxidant properties because the EO cannot migrate to the surface of the particles. Enzymatic hydrolysis of WPC negatively impacted microparticle integrity, potentially increasing EO release. These findings underscore the crucial role of wall materials in shaping the physical, morphological, thermal, antioxidant, and release properties of spray-dried microparticles, offering valuable insights for microencapsulation techniques.

Encapsulation of Japanese grape (Hovenia dulcis) pseudofruits by freeze drying: characterization and antioxidant potential

&lt;p&gt;The pseudofruit of &lt;em&gt;Hovenia dulcis&lt;/em&gt; is known as a source of bioactive compounds; however, like the majority of fruits, it is easily susceptible to deterioration. Encapsulation techniques have been used to protect and stabilize compounds, in addition to minimizing changes in the characteristics of the supplemented product. In the present study, the freeze-drying pulp of &lt;em&gt;H. dulcis&lt;/em&gt; pseudofruit (HD) and pulp of pseudofruits microencapsulated by freeze-drying using whey protein concentrate and gum arabic as coating materials (En-HD) were investigated. The samples (HD and EN-HD) were characterized for the physicochemical properties, total phenolic compounds (TPC), antioxidant activity (ABTS and DPPH), α-amylase inhibition, particle size distribution, and scanning electron microscopy. The microencapsulation retained 95.8% TPC after 75 days of storage at -80 ºC. En-HD showed higher antioxidant activity by the ABTS assay, and inhibition of the α-amylase enzyme, demonstrating the protective effect of the microencapsulation technique, which can be promising for controlling blood sugar levels. The En-HD presented a smaller particle size and higher solubility when compared to HD (76% higher), probably due to the coating materials used in the microencapsulation process, as well as the freeze-drying of the encapsulated sample made with HD previously subjected to freeze-drying. En-HD proved to be a promising candidate to provide functional properties for use as additive in food industries.&lt;/p&gt;

Applicability of sodium butyrate preparations from a surgeon's and gastroenterologist's perspective.

In recent years, much has been written about the possibilities of using exogenous sodium butyrate in the prevention and treatment of gastrointestinal diseases, in prehabilitation, in peri- and postoperative treatment, as well as its local application. It became possible thanks to the development of a special formulation (microencapsulation technique) enabling the delivery of unstable butyrate compounds to the large intestine, where it is used primarily as a source of energy. It also plays a key role in maintaining body homeostasis by maintaining the integrity of the intestinal epithelium and stimulating the intestinal immune system. There is growing evidence of the effectiveness of sodium butyrate in various areas of health. The following article discusses the possibilities of using microencapsulated sodium butyrate in the prevention and treatment of gastrointestinal diseases from the perspective of a gastroenterologist and gastrointestinal surgeon.

Preparation of prebiotic pectin-supplemented vitamin C microcapsules

Microencapsulating vitamin C with dietary fibers and prebiotics can improve the storage, preservation, and marketing of vitamin C supplements. This research aimed to explore the feasibility of creating microcapsules using vitamin C, pectin, and alginate through a microencapsulation technique. Pectin was extracted from lemon peel using an acid treatment and then characterised. The morphology of the vitamin C-pectin-alginate microcapsules was examined by scanning electron microscopy. Time, temperature, and pH-dependent vitamin C release profiles of the vitamin C-pectin-alginate microcapsules were studied. The rate of release of vitamin C increased towards pH values close to 7.0, with a higher rate of 83.97% observed at pH 7.0. Additionally, temperature affected the release of vitamin C from the microcapsules, with approximately 47.2% release at body temperature (37°C) and a higher fluctuation in vitamin C release was observed at 20°C. This study revealed that pectin extracted from lemon peels can be used with alginate to encapsulate vitamin C.

Review of fish protein hydrolysates: production methods, antioxidant and antimicrobial activity and nanoencapsulation.

Marine products have gained popularity due to their valuable components, especially protein, despite generating significant waste. Protein hydrolysates are widely recognized as the most effective method for transforming these low-value raw materials into high-value products. Fish protein hydrolysate (FPH), sourced from various aquatic wastes such as bones, scales, skin, and others, is rich in protein for value-added products. However, the hydrophobic peptides have limitations like an unpleasant taste and high solubility. Microencapsulation techniques provide a scientific approach to address these limitations and safeguard bioactive peptides. This review examines current research on FPH production methods and their antioxidant and antibacterial activities. Enzymatic hydrolysis using commercial enzymes is identified as the optimal method, and the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of FPH are substantiated. Microencapsulation using nanoliposomes effectively extends the inhibitory activity and enhances antioxidant and antibacterial capacities. Nevertheless, more research is needed to mitigate the bitter taste associated with FPH and enhance sensory attributes.

Synergistic effect of nitrocellulose coating on structural and reactivity stabilization of ammonium nitrate oxidizer

The present work aims to stabilize the room temperature allotropic transition of ammonium nitrate (AN) particles utilizing a microencapsulation technique, which involves solvent/non-solvent in which nitrocellulose (NC) has been employed as a coating agent. The SEM micrographs revealed distinct features of both pure AN and NC, contrasting with the irregular granular surface topography of the coated AN particles, demonstrating the adherence of NC on the AN surface. Structural analysis via infrared spectroscopy (IR) demonstrated a successful association of AN and NC, with slight shifts observed in IR bands indicating interfacial interactions. Powder X-ray Diffraction (PXRD) analysis further elucidated the structural changes induced by the coating process, revealing that the NC coating altered the crystallization pattern of its pure form. Thermal analysis demonstrates distinct profiles for pure and coated AN, for which the coated sample exhibits a temperature increase and an enthalpy decrease of the room temperature allotropic transition by 6 °C, and 36%, respectively. Furthermore, the presence of NC coating alters the intermolecular forces within the composite system, leading to a reduction in melting enthalpy of coated AN by ∼39% compared to pure AN. The thermal decomposition analysis shows a two-step thermolysis process for coated AN, with a significant increase in the released heat by about 78% accompanied by an increase in the activation barrier of NC and AN thermolysis, demonstrating a stabilized reactivity of the AN-NC particles. These findings highlight the synergistic effect of NC coating on AN particles, which contributed to a structural and reactive stabilization of both AN and NC, proving the potential application of NC-coated AN as a strategically advantageous oxidizer in composite solid propellant formulations.

Exploring the Nutritional and Bioactive Potential of Olive Leaf Residues: A Focus on Minerals and Polyphenols in the Context of Spain's Olive Oil Production.

Lyophilized plant-origin extracts are rich in highly potent antioxidant polyphenols. In order to incorporate them into food products, it is necessary to protect these phytochemicals from atmospheric factors such as heat, light, moisture, or pH, and to enhance their bioavailability due to their low solubility. To address these challenges, recent studies have focused on the development of encapsulation techniques for antioxidant compounds within polymeric structures. In this study, lyophilized olive leaf extracts were microencapsulated with the aim of overcoming the aforementioned challenges. The method used for the preparation of the studied microparticles involves external ionic gelation carried out within a water-oil (W/O) emulsion at room temperature. HPLC analysis demonstrates a high content of polyphenols, with 90% of the bioactive compounds encapsulated. Meanwhile, quantification by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) reveals that the dried leaves, lyophilized extract, and microencapsulated form contain satisfactory levels of macro- and micro-minerals (calcium, potassium, sodium). The microencapsulation technique could be a novel strategy to harness the polyphenols and minerals of olive leaves, thus enriching food products and leveraging the antioxidant properties of the polyphenolic compounds found in the lyophilized extract.

P116 Gastro-resistant microparticles for the oral delivery of Phycocyanin in the Inflammatory Bowel Disease therapy

Abstract Background Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a chronically relapsing inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, with ambiguous etiology. Oral route is the most common and acceptable approach for drug administration in the IBD treatment. However, it remains a challenge to maintain the stability of the drugs during oral treatment, particularly in the gastric environment, due its harsh conditions. In this context, the antioxidant and antiinflagmmatory properties of various natural compounds, as Phycocyanin (PC), a water-soluble bioactive molecule found in algae, can be strongly affected by factors as pH and temperature, inducing PC degradation and attenuating the curative effects. In this work, we produced a gastro-resistant microparticles (MPs) as controlled release systems for PC, and we aimed to compare its efficacy with free PC effects, on rat model of IBD. Methods The novel pharmaceutical system (SPC) was produced by microencapsulation technique, the spray-drying technique, using soy proteins (SPs) as natural excipients, aiming to improve the stability of the active ingredient and to ensure a modified release profile of PC. Rats were divided into groups and colitis was induced by intracolonic instillation of Dinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (DNBS, 20 mg/rat). Effects of preventive oral treatment of free PC or SPC were investigated, bioavailability was assessed and then body weight loss, stool consistency, colon weight/length index, myeloperoxidase activity (MPO), macroscopic damage and disease activity index (DAI) were determined. Results The SPC microparticle systems showed enhanced bioavailability of Phycocyanin, resulting in increased blood concentrations. The SPC system achieved the maximum AUC value and a modified release profile, particularly for gastro-resistant types, with a delayed Tmax of 5 hours, indicating their potential as a gastro-resistant formulation. Both PC and SPC pretreatments significantly ameliorated the severity of DNBS-induced colitis, however SPC pretreatment demonstrated enhanced activity vs PC. SPC rats showed a reduction of DAI, body weight loss and diarrhea incidence &amp;gt;15%, compared to PC (P&amp;lt;0.05); the ability of preventing the DNBS-induced macroscopic colonic damage and the MPO increase in SPC group were significantly higher than PC group (P&amp;lt;0.05) and also a tendency to improvement of colon weight/length index was observed. Conclusion In conclusion, the results of our research demonstrated that gastro-resistant microparticles (SPC) exhibit significantly improved therapeutic efficacy compared to orally administered free PC and can be developed as an effective new oral drug delivery system with controlled release profile in the treatment of IBD.