Preparation and application of micro/nanoparticles based on natural polysaccharides

Nanofibrous Chitin Clusters Constructed via Controllable Crystalline Structure Transition for 3D Functional Materials

Intensively studied polymeric particle production technologies often rely on the combination of polymer self-assembly and particle processing techniques. Herein, an elegant crystallization transition-mediated strategy is proposed to confine molecular self-assembly within a limited range, avoiding the need for extra particle processing steps. This approach enables the production of the regenerated nanofibrous chitin clusters woven with the helical nanofibers. By dissolving the β-chitin in an aqueous NaOH solution and adjusting the degree of deacetylation (DD value) to 28.0-41.4%, the chitin chains self-assembly pathway is facilitated to undergo a crystalline transition from α-chitin to hydrated chitosan. This transition diminishes the chitin chains self-assembly tendency and confines the self-assembly to the submicro- and micrometer scales. The morphological parameters of these chitin clusters, including cluster size, nanofiber tentacle density, diameter, and helical pitch, can be tuned by adjusting the DD value. These nanofibrous chitin clusters are successfully employed as building blocks to create 3D structural materials for thermal insulation and functional food applications, demonstrating their potential in constructing advanced materials. It is anticipated that the crystalline structure transition-mediated concept can be applied to other polymeric particle fabrication, opening up a new avenue for designing advanced particles for various applications.

A review of chitosan role in milk bioactive-based drug delivery, smart packaging and biosensors: Recent advances and developments

Chitosan, a versatile biopolymer derived from chitin, is increasingly recognized in the milk industry for its multifunctional applications in drug delivery, smart packaging, and biosensor development. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of recent advances in chitosan production techniques. These include chemical, biological, and novel methods such as deep eutectic solvents (DES), microwave-assisted approaches, and laser-assisted processes. Surface modification strategies to enhance its functional properties are also discussed. The review highlights the development of various chitosan-based nanocarriers, including nanoparticles, nanofibers, nanogels, and nanocomposites. It emphasizes their stability when combined with milk bioactive ingredients like lipids, peptides, lactose, and minerals. The gastrointestinal fate and safety of chitosan nanoparticles are critically evaluated, showcasing their potential for safe consumption in dairy-related applications. In drug delivery systems, chitosan exhibits excellent compatibility with milk-derived carbohydrates, proteins, and minerals, enabling the development of innovative drug delivery platforms. Additionally, its incorporation into smart packaging materials enhances the shelf-life and quality of dairy products. Chitosan-based biosensors offer precise contaminant detection in the milk industry by enabling precise detection of contaminants such as Bisphenol A, melamine, bacteria, drugs, antibiotics, toxins, heavy metals, and allergens, thus ensuring food safety and quality. Emerging trends, including the integration of artificial intelligence, advanced gene editing, and multifunctional chitosan, are discussed, offering insights into future personalized delivery systems and merging food and drug technologies. The review concludes by highlighting gaps in current research and offering recommendations for future exploration. These suggestions aim to optimize chitosan's unique properties to address key challenges in the milk industry. This article serves as a valuable resource for researchers, industry professionals, and policymakers aiming to innovate within the dairy sector using chitosan-based technologies.

Study on the development of nanoparticles based on levan for oral insulin delivery

Oral insulin administration has gained attention as a promising alternative to injections. However, its effectiveness is hindered by the major challenge of degradation by gastric acid. Biopolymer-based nanocarriers have been explored as a solution to address this challenge. This study examines levan, a biopolymer derived fromBacillus licheniformisBK1, for its viability as a nanocarrier for insulin. Levan was modified through acetylation, and both levan (I-Lv) and its acetylated (I-ALv) form were utilized as carriers for insulin in a nanoparticles (NPs) delivery system. The resulting NPs were spherical, with diameters ranging from 250 to 500 nm and encapsulation efficiencies of 78.64% and 88.30%, respectively. The insulin release from I-Lv NPs in simulated gastric fluid exhibited a burst release pattern that was more rapid than that of I-ALv. To further evaluate, the conformational stability of insulin in NPs was analyzed by measuring the transition enthalpy of secondary and tertiary structures. The stability of the secondary structure was determined through alpha-helix content using circular dichroism, while the tertiary structure stability was evaluated via the fluorescence intensity of tryptophan residues. The result revealed that insulin in I-ALv NPs exhibited enhanced conformational stability compared to free-state (FS) insulin and I-Lv NP, with transition enthalpies of 0.91 ± 0.62 and 4.42 ± 0.46 kcal mol-1for secondary and tertiary structures, respectively. Moreover, preliminaryin vivostudies revealed that I-ALv had a significant impact compared to FS insulin and I-Lv, demonstrating reduction in blood glucose levels. These findings highlight the potential of I-ALv as a promising candidate for antidiabetic therapy and an efficient oral delivery system.

How Advanced are Self-Assembled Nanomaterials for Targeted Drug Delivery? A Comprehensive Review of the Literature

The development of effective drug delivery systems is a key focus in pharmaceutical research, aiming to enhance therapeutic efficacy while minimizing adverse effects. Self-assembled nanostructures present a promising solution due to their tunable properties, biocompatibility, and ability to encapsulate and deliver therapeutic agents to specific targets. This review examines recent advancements in drug-based self-assembled nanostructures for targeted delivery applications, including drug-drug conjugates, polymeric-based architectures, biomolecules, peptides, DNA, squalene conjugates and amphiphilic drugs. Various strategies for fabricating these nanostructures are discussed, with an emphasis on the design principles and mechanisms underlying their self-assembly and potential for targeted drug delivery to specific tissues or cells. Furthermore, the integration of targeting ligands, stimuli-responsive moieties and imaging agents into these nanostructures is explored for enhanced therapeutic outcomes and real-time monitoring. Challenges such as stability, scalability and regulatory hurdles in translating these nanostructures from bench to bedside are also addressed. Drug-based self-assembled nanostructures represent a promising platform for developing next-generation targeted drug delivery systems with improved therapeutic efficacy and reduced side effects.

Encapsulation of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum with casein-gellan gum emulsions to enhance its storage, pasteurization, and gastrointestinal survival

Probiotics serve a very important role in human health. However, probiotics have poor stability during processing, storage, and gastrointestinal digestion. The gellan gum (GG) is less susceptible to enzymatic degradation and resistant to thermal and acidic environments. This study investigated the effect of casein (CS)-GG emulsions to encapsulate Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CICC 6002 (L. plantarum CICC 6002) on its storage stability, thermal stability, and gastrointestinal digestion. L. plantarum CICC 6002 was suspended in palm oil and emulsions were prepared using CS or CS-GG complexes. We found the CS-GG emulsions improved the viability of L. plantarum CICC 6002 after storage, pasteurization, and digestion compared to the CS emulsions. In addition, we investigated the influence of the gellan gum concentration on emulsion stability, and the optimal stability was observed in the emulsion prepared by CS-0.8% GG complex. This study provided a new strategy for the protection of probiotics based on CS-GG delivery system.

Recent advance for animal-derived polysaccharides in nanomaterials

Inspired by the structure characteristics of natural products, the size and morphology of particles are carefully controlled using a bottom-up approach to construct nanomaterials with specific spatial unit distribution. Animal polysaccharide nanomaterials, such as chitosan and chondroitin sulfate nanomaterials, exhibit excellent biocompatibility, degradability, customizable surface properties, and novel physical and chemical properties. These nanomaterials hold great potential for development in achieving a sustainable bio-economy. This paper provides a summary of the latest research results on the preparation of nanomaterials from animal polysaccharides. The mechanism for preparing nanomaterials through the bottom-up method from different sources of animal polysaccharides is introduced. Furthermore, this paper discusses the potential hazards posed by industrial applications to the environment and human health, as well as the challenges and future prospects associated with using animal polysaccharides in nanomaterials.

Construction of an Innovative Nanogel and Its Applications for Achieving Chemo-Immunotherapy of Tumors

Malignant tumors, also known as cancers, are a global public health problem. Nanogels are promising carriers for the delivery of anticancer medicines. Therefore, based on the unique microenvironment of tumor cells and the advantages of nanogels, a simple and economical one-pot synthesis method was designed to construct natural polysaccharide-based redox-responsive nanogels (LDD NGs). The enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect enriched LDD NGs in tumor cells, which then rapidly collapsed and released the natural antitumor drug diosgenin (DG) and the natural polysaccharide lentinan (LNT) via the depletion of a high level of reduced glutathione (GSH) in tumor cells, resulting in a synergistic therapeutic effect of chemotherapy and immunotherapy. In vivo antitumor experiments showed that LDD NGs could inhibit the proliferation and metastasis of the A549 lung cancer cells. Further studies indicated that LDD NGs could increase the production of ROS and induce apoptosis of A549 cells. In addition, LNT released from LDD NGs could promote the proliferation of dendritic cells, increase the production of NO, and upregulate the expressions of the costimulatory molecules CD40, CD80, CD86, and MHC-II. The construction of LDD NGs was a novel drug synthesis approach that could provide fresh ideas for the development of polysaccharide-based redox-responsive drug delivery systems.

Isolation and Characterization of Novel Cellulose Micro/Nanofibers from Lygeum spartum Through a Chemo-Mechanical Process

Recent studies have focused on the development of bio-based products from sustainable resources using green extraction approaches, especially nanocellulose, an emerging nanoparticle with impressive properties and multiple applications. Despite the various sources of cellulose nanofibers, the search for alternative resources that replace wood, such as Lygeum spartum, a fast-growing Mediterranean plant, is crucial. It has not been previously investigated as a potential source of nanocellulose. This study investigates the extraction of novel cellulose micro/nanofibers from Lygeum spartum using a two-step method, including both alkali and mechanical treatment as post-treatment with ultrasound, as well as homogenization using water and dilute alkali solution as a solvent. To determine the structural properties of CNFs, a series of characterization techniques was applied. A significant correlation was observed between the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRD) results. The FTIR results revealed the elimination of amorphous regions and an increase in the energy of the H-bonding modes, while the XRD results showed that the crystal structure of micro/nanofibers was preserved during the process. In addition, they indicated an increase in the crystallinity index obtained with both methods (deconvolution and Segal). Thermal analysis based on thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) confirmed improvement in the thermal properties of the isolated micro/nanofibers. The temperatures of maximum degradation were 335 °C and 347 °C. Morphological analysis using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and atomic force microscope (AFM) showed the formation of fibers along the axis, with rough and porous surfaces. The findings indicate the potential of Lygeum spartum as a source for producing high-quality micro/nanofibers. A future direction of study is to use the cellulose micro/nanofibers as additives in recycled paper and to evaluate the mechanical properties of the paper sheets, as well as investigate their use in smart paper.

Unlocking nature's arsenal: Nanotechnology for targeted delivery of venom toxins in cancer therapy

AIM

The aim of the present review is to shed light on the nanotechnological approaches adopted to overcome the shortcomings associated with the delivery of venom peptides which possess inherent anti-cancer properties.

BACKGROUND

Venom peptides although have been reported to demonstrate anti-cancer effects, they suffer from several disadvantages such as in vivo instability, off-target adverse effects, limited drug loading and low bioavailability. This review presents a comprehensive compilation of different classes of nanocarriers while underscoring their advantages, disadvantages and potential to carry such peptide molecules for in vivo delivery. It also discusses various nanotechnological aspects such as methods of fabrication, analytical tools to assess these nanoparticulate formulations, modulation of nanocarrier polymer properties to enhance loading capacity, stability and improve their suitability to carry toxic peptide drugs.

CONCLUSION

Nanotechnological approaches bear great potential in delivering venom peptide-based molecules as anticancer agents by enhancing their bioavailability, stability, efficacy as well as offering a spatiotemporal delivery approach. However, the challenges associated with toxicity and biocompatibility of nanocarriers must be duly addressed.

PERSPECTIVES

The everlasting quest for new breakthroughs for safer delivery of venom peptides in human subjects is fuelled by unmet clinical needs in the current landscape of chemotherapy. In addition, exhaustive efforts are required in obtaining and purifying the venom peptides followed by designing and optimizing scale up technologies.

Magnetic hydrogel based on xylan, poly (acrylic acid), and maghemite as adsorbent material for methylene blue adsorption: experimental design, kinetic, and isotherm

A magnetic hydrogel based on xylan (X), poly (acrylic acid), and maghemite (γ-Fe2O3) named HXA-Fe2O3 was synthesized, characterized, and applied as an alternative material to remove methylene blue (MB) from aqueous media by adsorption. Maghemite was synthesized by coprecipitation method and later incorporated in the hydrogel matrix synthesized by free radical polymerization. The characterization studies included FTIR, DSC, XRD, VSM, Zeta Potential, TGA, SEM, TEM, and N2 adsorption isotherms (BET). The physicochemical characterization results confirmed the intended synthesis and showed the compositional, thermal, structural, morphological, textural, and magnetic profile of the materials. The adsorption studies included experimental design, kinetic, and isotherm. A full factorial design was employed considering the factors adsorbent dosage (g L-1), pH, and ionic strength (mmol L-1 of NaCl) for adsorption capacity and removal percentage responses. As ionic strength was not significant, a Doehlert design was employed with adsorbent dosage and pH, indicating the optimal adsorption conditions. The kinetics was well described by the PSO model, while the isotherm obeyed the Sips model. Equilibrium was attained at 60 min, and the maximum experimental adsorption capacity was up to 250.26 mg g-1 at pH 8.5, adsorbent dosage of 0.2 g L-1, and 298 K. These findings show that the magnetic hydrogel produced has great potential to be applied in the adsorption of basic molecules, such as MB.

pH-responsive chitosan-mediated spherical mesoporous silica microspheres for high loading and controlled delivery of 5-Fluorouracil

The objective of this study is to develop a drug carrier to overcome the inherent drawbacks of 5-Fluorouracil (5-Fu), including low bioavailability, short half-life, and systemic toxicity. In the present work, mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) capped by chitosan (CS) to encapsulate 5-Fu (5-Fu MSNs/CS) were fabricated by the sol-gel process, ultrasonic impregnation, and emulsion cross-linking. The 5-Fu MSNs/CS microspheres exhibit pH-responsive drug release and remarkable drug encapsulation capacity, as well as perfect sphericity, high specific surface area (680.62 cm2/g), and uniform particle size (2.64 ± 0.05 μm). The drug-loading content and encapsulation efficiency are 14.12 ± 0.53 % and 82.21 ± 2.13 %, respectively. The cumulative release of 5-Fu from MSNs/CS microspheres is fast and sustained at pH 5.0 (89.56 ± 0.97 %) compared to that at pH 7.4 (57.88 ± 0.91 %) in 96 h, and it is Fickian diffusion controlled. In conclusion, the MSNs/CS microspheres prepared in this study could be potential carriers for 5-Fu delivery.

Synthesis, characterization and stability of crosslinked chitosan-maltodextrin pH-sensitive nanogels

Polysaccharide-based nanogels offer a wide range of chemical compositions and are of great interest due to their biodegradability, biocompatibility, non-toxicity, and their ability to display pH, temperature, or enzymatic response. In this work, we synthesized monodisperse and tunable pH-sensitive nanogels by crosslinking, through reductive amination, chitosan and partially oxidized maltodextrins, by keeping the concentration of chitosan close to its overlap concentration, i.e. in the dilute and semi-dilute regime. The chitosan/maltodextrin nanogels presented sizes ranging from 63 ± 9 to 279 ± 16 nm, showed quasi-spherical and cauliflower-like morphology, reached a ζ-potential of +36 ± 2 mV and maintained a colloidal stability for up to 7 weeks. It was found that the size and surface charge of nanogels depended both on the oxidation degree of maltodextrins and chitosan concentration, as well as on its degree of acetylation and protonation, the latter tuned by pH. The pH-responsiveness of the nanogels was evidenced by an increased size, owed to swelling, and ζ-potential when pH was lowered. Finally, maltodextrin-chitosan biocompatible nanogels were assessed by cell viability assay performed using the HEK293T cell line.

Dextran-based nanoparticles with 5-FU-conjugated polymethacrylate segments for drug delivery: Synthesis of amphiphilic graft copolymers by mechanochemical solid-state polymerization and characterization

Dextran (Dx) is a biodegradable and biocompatible polysaccharide, thus promising as a drug delivery carrier for tumor therapy. Herein, we applied mechanical energy to a high molecular weight Dx to control its molecular weight and simultaneously generate mechanoradicals. The solid-state polymerization of methacrylate- or methacrylamide derivatives initiated with Dx mechanoradicals showed polymer conversion of >95%, yielding Dx-based graft copolymers with molecular weights of approximately 30,000 g mol-1. The Dx-based graft copolymers with hydrophobic segments formed nanoparticles with a particle size of 25-35 nm in an aqueous solution. The anti-pancreatic tumor drug 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) was covalently conjugated onto the hydrophobic segments of the amphiphilic Dx, and the nanoparticles were also prepared. The drug release profile from 5-FU-conjugated nanoparticles corresponded well to the Korsmeyer-Peppas model applied to drug release from matrix substrates, and was also immensely predicted by the Logistic and Gompertz curves. The 5-FU-conjugated nanoparticles showed cytotoxicity against the pancreatic adenocarcinoma cell lines (BxPC-3) that were not significantly inferior to the 5-FU positive group. Furthermore, the fluorescein-labeled nanoparticles internalized into BxPC-3 within 6 h and actively migrated into the cytosol. These results suggest that Dx-based graft copolymers with hydrophobic segments might be used to enhance therapeutic activity.

A review of the fungal polysaccharides as natural biopolymers: Current applications and future perspective

As a unique natural resource, fungi are a sustainable source of lipids, polysaccharides, vitamins, proteins, and other nutrients. As a result, they have beneficial medicinal and nutritional properties. Polysaccharides are among the most significant bioactive components found in fungi. Increasing research has revealed that fungal polysaccharides (FPS) contain a variety of bioactivities, including antitumor, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, and anti-aging properties. However, the exact knowledge about FPS and their applications related to their future possibilities must be thoroughly examined to enhance a better understanding of this sustainable biopolymer source. Therefore, FPS' biological applications and their role in the food and feed industry, agriculture, and cosmetics applications were all discussed in this work. In addition, this review highlighted the mode of action of FPS on human diseases by regulating gut microbiota and discussed the mechanism of FPS as antioxidants in the living cell. The structure-activity connections of FPS were also highlighted and explored. Moreover, future perspectives were listed to pave the way for future studies of FPS applications. Hence, this study can be a scientific foundation for future FPS research and industrial applications.

Phycocyanin from microalgae: A comprehensive review covering microalgal culture, phycocyanin sources and stability

As food safety continues to gain prominence, phycocyanin (PC) is increasingly favored by consumers as a natural blue pigment, which is extracted from microalgae and serves the dual function of promoting health and providing coloration. Spirulina-derived PC demonstrates exceptional stability within temperature ranges below 45 °C and under pH conditions between 5.5 and 6.0. However, its application is limited in scenarios involving high-temperature processing due to its sensitivity to heat and light. This comprehensive review provides insights into the efficient production of PC from microalgae, covers the metabolic engineering of microalgae to increase PC yields and discusses various strategies for enhancing its stability in food applications. In addition to the most widely used Spirulina, some red algae and Thermosynechococcus can serve as good source of PC. The genetic and metabolic manipulation of microalgae strains has shown promise in increasing PC yield and improving its quality. Delivery systems including nanoparticles, hydrogels, emulsions, and microcapsules offer a promising solution to protect and extend the shelf life of PC in food products, ensuring its vibrant color and health-promoting properties are preserved. This review highlights the importance of metabolic engineering, multi-omics applications, and innovative delivery systems in unlocking the full potential of this natural blue pigment in the realm of food applications, provides a complete overview of the entire process from production to commercialization of PC, including the extraction and purification.

Progresses and perspectives on natural polysaccharide based hydrogels for repair of infarcted myocardium

Myocardial infarction (MI) is serious health threat and impairs the quality of life. It is a major causative factor of morbidity and mortality. MI leads to the necrosis of cardio-myocytes, cardiac remodelling and dysfunction, eventually leading to heart failure. The limitations of conventional therapeutic and surgical interventions and lack of heart donors have necessitated the evolution of alternate treatment approaches for MI. Polysaccharide hydrogel based repair of infarcted myocardium have surfaced as viable option for MI treatment. Polysaccharide hydrogels may be injectable hydrogels or cardiac patches. Injectable hydrogels can in situ deliver cells and bio-actives, facilitating in situ cardiac regeneration and repair. Polysaccharide hydrogel cardiac patches reduce cardiac wall stress, and inhibit ventricular expansion and promote angiogenesis. Herein, we discuss about MI pathophysiology and myocardial microenvironment and how polysaccharide hydrogels are designed to mimic and support the microenvironment for cardiac repair. We also put forward the versatility of the different polysaccharide hydrogels in mimicking diverse cardiac properties, and acting as a medium for delivery of cells, and therapeutics for promoting angiogenesis and cardiac repair. The objectives of this review is to summarize the factors leading to MI and to put forward how polysaccharide based hydrogels promote cardiac repair. This review is written to enable researchers understand the factors promoting MI so that they can undertake and design novel hydrogels for cardiac regeneration.

Structural and interfacial properties of acetylated Millettia speciosa Champ polysaccharide and stability evaluation of the resultant O/W emulsion containing β-carotene

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of acetylation modification on the structural, interfacial and emulsifying properties of Millettia speciosa Champ polysaccharide (MSCP). Besides, the influence of acetylation modification on the encapsulation properties of polysaccharide-based emulsion was also explored. Results indicated that modification resulted in a prominent reduction in molecular weight of MSCP and the interfacial layer thickness formed by acetylated MSCP (AC-MSCP) was also decreased, but the adsorption rate and ability of AC-MSCP to reduce interfacial tension were improved. AC-MSCP formulated emulsion possessed smaller droplet size (6.8 μm) and exhibited better physical stability under stressful conditions. The chemical stability of β-carotene was also profoundly enhanced by AC-MSCP fabricated emulsion. Moreover, AC-MSCP improved lipids digestion extent, thus facilitating the formation of micelle and increasing bioaccessibility of β-carotene. This study provided insights for rational modification of polysaccharide-based emulsifier and designing delivery system for chemically labile hydrophobic bioactive components.

Alginate and Chitosan-Based Hydrogel Enhance Antibacterial Agent Activity on Topical Application

Untreated topical infections can become chronic, posing serious health issues. Optimal skin adherence is crucial in addressing such infections. In this context, chitosan and alginate emerge as promising candidates for use as a foundation in the development of topical hydrogels. The aim of this review is to examine the literature on topical hydrogel formulations that use chitosan and alginate as foundations, specifically in the context of topical antibacterial agents. The research methodology involves a literature review by examining articles published in databases such as PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. The keywords employed during the research were "Alginate", "Chitosan", "Hydrogel", and "Antibacterial". Chitosan and alginate serve as bases in topical hydrogels to deliver various active ingredients, particularly antibacterial agents, as indicated by the search results. Both have demonstrated significant antibacterial effectiveness, as evidenced by a reduction in bacterial colony counts and an increase in inhibition zones. This strongly supports the idea that chitosan and alginate could be used together to make topical hydrogels that kill bacteria that work well. In conclusion, chitosan and alginate-based hydrogels show great potential in treating bacterial infections on the skin surface. The incorporation of chitosan and alginate into hydrogel formulations aids in retaining antibacterial agents, allowing for their gradual release over an optimal period. Therefore, hydrogels specifically formulated with chitosan and alginate have the potential to serve as a solution to address challenges in the treatment of topical bacterial infections.

Physicochemical Features and Applicability of Newly Fabricated Phytopharmaceutical-Loaded Hydrogel Alginate Microcarriers with Viscoelastic Polyelectrolyte Coatings

The design of novel polymeric carrier systems with functional coatings is of great interest for delivering various bioactive molecules. Microcapsules coated with polyelectrolyte (PE) films provide additional functionality and fine-tuning advantages essential for controlled drug release. We developed hydrogel microcarriers coated with functional PE films with encapsulated substances of natural origin, resveratrol (RES), curcumin (CUR), and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which have cytotoxic and chemopreventive properties. Alginate (ALG) based microparticles were loaded with phytopharmaceuticals using the emulsification method, and then their surface was modified with PE coatings, such as chitosan (CHIT) or poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH). The morphology and mean diameter of microcarriers were characterised by scanning electron microscopy, encapsulation efficiency was determined by UV-Vis spectroscopy, whereas the physicochemical properties of functional PE layers were studied using quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring and streaming potential measurements. The release profiles of active compounds from the hydrogel microparticles were described using the Peppas-Sahlin model. The cytotoxic effect of designed delivery systems was studied by evaluating their impact on the proliferation, mitochondrial metabolic function, and lipid peroxidation level of 5637 human bladder cancer cells. The present work demonstrates that the physicochemical and biological features of fabricated microcarriers can be controlled by the type of encapsulated anti-cancer agent and PE coating.

Structure and emulsifying properties of unprecedent glucomannan oligo- and polysaccharides from Amazonia Acrocomia aculeata palm fruit

Acrocomia aculeata fruit pulp contains oil (4.1-82.8 % fresh matter) and carbohydrates (6.6-98.0 % fresh matter). To date, only the oil fraction is valorized because very little is known about the nature of carbohydrates. This study explores new ways of adding value to this pulp by developing simple and efficient extraction processes for its carbohydrate components and characterizing their structure and physicochemical properties over two harvest periods. A water-soluble monosaccharide fraction F1 (solubility limit (SL): 98.5-99.3 g/L) (yield: 21 % dry pulp (DP)), a water-soluble polysaccharide fraction F2 (SL: 93.3-95.3 g/L) (yield: 26 % DP) and two additional water-insoluble polysaccharide fractions F3 and F4 (SL: <8 g/L) (yields: 10 and 19 % DP, respectively) were isolated. NMR structural characterizations of fraction F2 revealed it to be a linear glucomannan with β-(1 → 4) osidic linkages between d-Manp and d-Glcp residues. F2 is unique for its d-Manp/d-Glcp ratio of 3:1 and the position of its acetyl group (13-14 %, C-2 d-Manp). Finally, the polysaccharide showed a molecular weight (Mw) variation ranging from 8.2 × 104 to 1.1 × 103 Da over the two harvest periods, with remarkable emulsifying properties associated with a low Mw of F2 (stability >6 months, 1 % w/v in a water-in-oil emulsion).

Enhancement of Oral Bioavailability of Protein and Peptide by Polysaccharide-based Nanoparticles

Oral drug delivery is a prevalent and cost-effective method due to its advantages, such as increased drug absorption surface area and improved patient compliance. However, delivering proteins and peptides orally remains a challenge due to their vulnerability to degradation by digestive enzymes, stomach acids, and limited intestinal membrane permeability, resulting in poor bioavailability. The use of nanotechnology has emerged as a promising solution to enhance the bioavailability of these vital therapeutic agents. Polymeric NPs, made from natural or synthetic polymers, are commonly used. Natural polysaccharides, such as alginate, chitosan, dextran, starch, pectin, etc., have gained preference due to their biodegradability, biocompatibility, and versatility in encapsulating various drug types. Their hydrophobic-hydrophilic properties can be tailored to suit different drug molecules.

Marine-derived polysaccharides and their therapeutic potential in wound healing application - A review

Polysaccharides originating from marine sources have been studied as potential material for use in wound dressings because of their desirable characteristics of biocompatibility, biodegradability, and low toxicity. Marine-derived polysaccharides used as wound dressing, provide several benefits such as promoting wound healing by providing a moist environment that facilitates cell migration and proliferation. They can also act as a barrier against external contaminants and provide a protective layer to prevent further damage to the wound. Research studies have shown that marine-derived polysaccharides can be used to develop different types of wound dressings such as hydrogels, films, and fibres. These dressings can be personalised to meet specific requirements based on the type and severity of the wound. For instance, hydrogels can be used for deep wounds to provide a moist environment, while films can be used for superficial wounds to provide a protective barrier. Additionally, these polysaccharides can be modified to improve their properties, such as enhancing their mechanical strength or increasing their ability to release bioactive molecules that can promote wound healing. Overall, marine-derived polysaccharides show great promise for developing effective and safe wound dressings for various wound types.

Application of the Ugi reaction for preparation of submicron capsules based on sugar beet pectin

The Ugi four-component condensation in diluted liposomal suspensions was used to prepare pectin-based submicron capsules. A set of isocyanides and aldehydes was used to optimize the synthesis of capsule shells. Modified sugar beet pectin was selected as a natural polymer with pronounced surface activity to create a capsule shell. At first, liposomal composition was optimized in order to select suitable conditions for capsule formation. Then, the wide set of capsules constructed on modified sugar beet pectin scaffold has been synthesized. The choice was determined by level of substitution degree and possible chemical diversity of the modified surface. Detailed characterization of products has been performed for polysaccharide particles with liposomal core prepared with various processing parameters (concentration, cross-linking components, the density of linkage). The chemical structure, average size, polydispersity index, morphology, stability, and cytotoxicity of obtained particles have been investigated in dependence on the shell content. The obtained submicrometer cross-linked capsules (220-240 nm) with controlled colloidal properties showed high stability and low toxicity. Thus, the proposed carriers have a great potential as sustained drug delivery systems for different administration routes.

Nanofood Process Technology: Insights on How Sustainability Informs Process Design

Nanostructured products are an actively growing area for food research, but there is little information on the sustainability of processes used to make these products. In this Review, we advocate for selection of sustainable process technologies during initial stages of laboratory-scale developments of nanofoods. We show that selection is assisted by predictive sustainability assessment(s) based on conventional technologies, including exploratory ex ante and "anticipatory" life-cycle assessment. We demonstrate that sustainability assessments for conventional food process technologies can be leveraged to design nanofood process concepts and technologies. We critically review emerging nanostructured food products including encapsulated bioactive molecules and processes used to structure these foods at laboratory, pilot, and industrial scales. We apply a rational method via learning lessons from sustainability of unit operations in conventional food processing and critically apportioned lessons between emerging and conventional approaches. We conclude that this method provides a quantitative means to incorporate sustainability during process design for nanostructured foods. Findings will be of interest and benefit to a range of food researchers, engineers, and manufacturers of process equipment.

Polysaccharide-based nanoassemblies: From synthesis methodologies and industrial applications to future prospects

Polysaccharides, due to their remarkable features, have gained significant prominence in the sustainable production of nanoparticles (NPs). High market demand and minimal production cost, compared to the chemically synthesised NPs, demonstrate a drive towards polysaccharide-based nanoparticles (PSNPs) benign to environment. Various approaches are used for the synthesis of PSNPs including cross-linking, polyelectrolyte complexation, and self-assembly. PSNPs have the potential to replace a wide diversity of chemical-based agents within the food, health, medical and pharmacy sectors. Nevertheless, the considerable challenges associated with optimising the characteristics of PSNPs to meet specific targeting applications are of utmost importance. This review provides a detailed compilation of recent accomplishments in the synthesis of PSNPs, the fundamental principles and critical factors that govern their rational fabrication, as well as various characterisation techniques. Noteworthy, the multiple use of PSNPs in different disciplines such as biomedical, cosmetics agrochemicals, energy storage, water detoxification, and food-related realms, is accounted in detail. Insights into the toxicological impacts of the PSNPs and their possible risks to human health are addressed, and efforts made in terms of PSNPs development and optimising strategies that allow for enhanced delivery are highlighted. Finally, limitations, potential drawbacks, market diffusion, economic viability and future possibilities for PSNPs to achieve widespread commercial use are also discussed.

Purification and characterization of a chicory polysaccharide and its application in stabilizing genistein for cancer therapy

Genistein is an isoflavone with chemopreventive and therapeutic effects on various types of cancers. Apparently, in contrast to the advantages of multi-target therapy, the poor water solubility of this molecule is a major obstacle to its clinical application. In this work, zein/chicory polysaccharide nanoparticles (G-zein-P NPs) were prepared by pH-induced antisolvent precipitation method for the encapsulation of genistein. Firstly, an acidic polysaccharide (CIP70-2) with a molecular weight of 66.7 kDa was identified from the roots of chicory (Cichorium intybus). This natural macromolecule was identified as a plant pectin, for which the structure included RG-I (rhamnogalacturonan I) and HG (homogalacturonan) regions. Using this polysaccharide, G-zein-P NPs were prepared, in which the water solubility of genistein was improved by encapsulation. The encapsulation efficiency and loading efficiency of genistein by composite nanoparticles reached 99.0 % and 6.96 %, respectively. In vitro tumor inhibition experiments showed that the inhibitory effect of G-zein-P NPs on HepG2 cells was twice that of unencapsulated genistein. Moreover, the significant inhibition of tumor development and metastasis by G-zein-P NPs was observed in zebrafish xenograft models. The results suggested that zein/chicory polysaccharide nanoparticles may be a promising delivery carrier for genistein application in cancer prevention and therapy.

Recent advances in natural small molecules as drug delivery systems

Drug delivery systems (DDSs) are a multidisciplinary approach toward the effective delivery of drugs to their target sites. Natural small molecule (NSM) compounds with anticancer activity, self-assembly and co-assembly functions show great potential for application as novel DDSs in the biomedical field. NSMs are widely sourced, have many modification sites, and readily form hydrogen bonds, π-π interactions, van der Waals interactions, and other non-covalent bonds in solvents, resulting in ordered structures. Moreover, their good biocompatibility and bioactivity allow compositions based on these compounds to be used in life science applications such as tissue engineering, drug delivery and cell imaging, showing the potential medical value of NSMs as DDSs. In this review, we summarise the role, assembly principles and applications of natural products such as triterpenoids, diterpenoids, sterols, alkaloids and polysaccharides in the construction of small molecule systems, which are expected to provide an important reference for the development of more active natural nanomaterials and the study of single or multi-component interactions.

Construction and Performance Evaluation of Nicandra physalodes (Linn.) Gaertn. Polysaccharide-Based Nanogel

The nanogels made from these polysaccharides and their derivatives are often used to construct drug delivery systems owing to their biocompatible, biodegradable, non-toxic, water-soluble, and bioactive characteristics. In this work, a novel pectin with unique gelling properties was extracted from the seed of Nicandra physalodes (NPGP). The structural research indicated that NPGP was a low methoxyl pectin with a high content of galacturonic acid. NPGP-based nanogels (NGs) were accomplished employing the water in oil (W/O) nano-emulsion method. The cysteamine containing reduction-responsive bond and integrin-targeting RGD peptide were also grafted onto NPGP. The anti-tumor drug doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX) was loaded during the formation of NGs, and the performance of DOX delivery was studied. The NGs were characterized by UV-vis, DLS, TEM, FT-IR, and XPS. The results showed that the prepared NGs were nanosized (167.6 ± 53.86 nm), had excellent encapsulation efficiency (91.61 ± 0.85%), and possessed a fine drug loading capacity (8.40 ± 0.16%). The drug release experiment showed that DOX@NPGP-SS-RGD had good redox-responsive performance. Furthermore, the results of cell experiments revealed good biocompatibility of prepared NGs, along with selective absorption by HCT-116 cells through integrin receptor-mediated endocytosis to play an anti-tumor effect. These studies indicated the potential application of NPGP-based NGs as targeted drug delivery systems.

Fungal β-Glucan-Based Nanotherapeutics: From Fabrication to Application

Fungal β-glucans are naturally occurring active macromolecules used in food and medicine due to their wide range of biological activities and positive health benefits. Significant research efforts have been devoted over the past decade to producing fungal β-glucan-based nanomaterials and promoting their uses in numerous fields, including biomedicine. Herein, this review offers an up-to-date report on the synthetic strategies of common fungal β-glucan-based nanomaterials and preparation methods such as nanoprecipitation and emulsification. In addition, we highlight current examples of fungal β-glucan-based theranostic nanosystems and their prospective use for drug delivery and treatment in anti-cancer, vaccination, as well as anti-inflammatory treatments. It is anticipated that future advances in polysaccharide chemistry and nanotechnology will aid in the clinical translation of fungal β-glucan-based nanomaterials for the delivery of drugs and the treatment of illnesses.

Advances in Drug Delivery Systems Based on Red Blood Cells and Their Membrane-Derived Nanoparticles

Red blood cells (RBCs) and RBC membrane-derived nanoparticles have been historically developed as bioinspired drug delivery systems to combat the issues of premature clearance, toxicity, and immunogenicity of synthetic nanocarriers. RBC-based delivery systems possess characteristics including biocompatibility, biodegradability, and long circulation time, which make them suited for systemic administration. Therefore, they have been employed in designing optimal drug formulations in various preclinical models and clinical trials to treat a wide range of diseases. In this review, we provide an overview of the biology, synthesis, and characterization of drug delivery systems based on RBCs and their membrane including whole RBCs, RBC membrane-camouflaged nanoparticles, RBC-derived extracellular vesicles, and RBC hitchhiking. We also highlight conventional and latest engineering strategies, along with various therapeutic modalities, for enhanced precision and effectiveness of drug delivery. Additionally, we focus on the current state of RBC-based therapeutic applications and their clinical translation as drug carriers, as well as discussing opportunities and challenges associated with these systems.

Dual-functional carboxymethyl levan-based protein carrier for cosmeceutical application of human epidermal growth factor

Human epidermal growth factor (hEGF) has been a subject of extensive research as its wide range of physiological functions has many potential applications. However, due to the low stability of hEGF, its physiological effect is easily lost under conditions of use. To compensate for this, we developed a stable delivery system using levan-based nanoparticles. The entrapment yield of various tested proteins was significantly improved by employing carboxymethyl levan (CML) instead of levan; the entrapment yield of the CML-hEGF nanoparticles was 84.1 %. The size and zeta potential of the nanoparticles were identified as 199.9 ± 3.87 nm and -19.1 mV, respectively, using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and particle size analysis. Dual biological functions of the nanoparticles (skin regeneration and moisturizing) were identified through collagen synthesis activity and aquaporin 3 expression level analysis. Stability of the prepared nanoparticles was also investigated via cell proliferation activity comparison under mimicked physiological conditions. The CML-hEGF nanoparticles maintained cell proliferation activity over 100 % for 6 weeks, while free hEGF was almost inactivated within 2 weeks. Taken together, our results indicate that the CML-based hEGF nanoparticles can be used in pharma- and cosmeceutical applications, guaranteeing a high entrapment capability, functionality, and stability.

Natural Gums in Drug-Loaded Micro- and Nanogels

Gums are polysaccharide compounds obtained from natural sources, such as plants, algae and bacteria. Because of their excellent biocompatibility and biodegradability, as well as their ability to swell and their sensitivity to degradation by the colon microbiome, they are regarded as interesting potential drug carriers. In order to obtain properties differing from the original compounds, blends with other polymers and chemical modifications are usually applied. Gums and gum-derived compounds can be applied in the form of macroscopic hydrogels or can be formulated into particulate systems that can deliver the drugs via different administration routes. In this review, we present and summarize the most recent studies regarding micro- and nanoparticles obtained with the use of gums extensively investigated in pharmaceutical technology, their derivatives and blends with other polymers. This review focuses on the most important aspects of micro- and nanoparticulate systems formulation and their application as drug carriers, as well as the challenges related to these formulations.

Encapsulating biocontrol bacteria with starch as a safe and edible biopolymer to alleviate plant diseases: A review

Healthy foods with few artificial additives are in high demand among consumers. Preserving conventional pesticides, frequently used as chemicals to control phytopathogens, is challenging. Therefore, we proposed an innovative approach to protect agricultural products in this review. Biocontrol bacteria are safe alternatives with low stability and low efficiency in the free-form formulation. The encapsulation technique for covering active compounds (e.g., antimicrobials) represents a more efficient protection technology because encapsulation causes the controlled release of bioactive materials and reduces the application doses. Of the biopolymers able to form a capsule, starch exhibits several advantages, such as its ready availability, cost-effectively, edible, colorless, and tasteless. Nevertheless, the poor mechanical properties of starch can be improved with other edible biopolymers. In addition, applying formulations incorporated with more than one antimicrobial material offers synergistic effects. This review presented the starch-based capsules used to enclose antimicrobial agents as effective tools against phytopathogens.

Advances in polymer-based cell encapsulation and its applications in tissue repair

Cell microencapsulation is a more widely accepted area of biological encapsulation. In most cases, it involves fixing cells in polymer scaffolds or semi-permeable hydrogel capsules, providing the environment for protecting cells, allowing the exchange of nutrients and oxygen, and protecting cells against the attack of the host immune system by preventing the entry of antibodies and cytotoxic immune cells. Hydrogel encapsulation provides a three-dimensional (3D) environment similar to that experienced in vivo, so it can maintain normal cellular functions to produce tissues similar to those in vivo. Embedded cells can be genetically modified to release specific therapeutic products directly at the target site, thereby eliminating the side effects of systemic treatments. Cellular microcarriers need to meet many extremely high standards regarding their biocompatibility, cytocompatibility, immunoseparation capacity, transport, mechanical, and chemical properties. In this article, we discuss the biopolymer gels used in tissue engineering applications and the brief introduction of cell encapsulation for therapeutic protein production. Also, we review polymer biomaterials and methods for preparing cell microcarriers for biomedical applications. At the same time, in order to improve the application performance of cell microcarriers in vivo, we also summarize the main limitations and improvement strategies of cell encapsulation. Finally, the main applications of polymer cell microcarriers in regenerative medicine are summarized.

Research progress of water-in-oil emulsion gelated with internal aqueous phase: gel factors, gel mechanism, application fields, and future direction of development

The W/O emulsion is a promising system. Its special structure can keep the sensory properties of fat while reducing the fat content. Improving the stability and physical properties of W/O emulsions is generally oriented toward outer oil-phase modified oil gels and inner water-phase modified inner hydrogels. In this paper, the research progress of internal aqueous gel was reviewed, and some gel factors suitable for internal aqueous gel and the gel mechanism of main gel factors were discussed. The advantages of this internal aqueous gel emulsion system allow its use in the field of fat substitutes and encapsulating substances. Finally, some shortcomings and possible research directions in the future were proposed, which would provide a theoretical basis for the further development of internal water-phase gelled W/O emulsion in the future.

Recent advances in cellulose microgels: Preparations and functionalized applications

Microgels are soft, deformable, permeable, and stimuli-responsive microscopic polymeric particles that are now emerging as prospective multifunctional soft materials for delivery systems, interface stabilization, cell cultures and tissue engineering. Cellulose microgels are emerging biopolymeric microgels with unique characteristics such as abound hydroxyl structure, admirable designability, multiscale pore network and excellent biocompatibility. This review summarizes the fabrication strategies for microgel, then highlights the fabrication routes for cellulose microgels, and finally elaborates cellulose microgels' bright application prospects with unique characteristics in the fields of controlled release, interface stabilization, coating, purification, nutrition/drug delivery, and bio-fabrication. The challenges to be addressed for further applications and considerable scope for development in future of cellulose microgels are also discussed.

Biopolymer coating for particle surface engineering and their biomedical applications

Surface engineering of particles based on a polymeric coating is of great interest in materials design and applications. Due to the disadvantages of non-biodegradability and undesirable biocompatibility, the application of petroleum-based synthetic polymers coating in the biomedical field has been greatly limited. In addition, there is lack of a universal surface modification method to functionalize particles of different compositions, sizes, shapes, and structures. Thus, it is imperative to develop a versatile biopolymeric coating with good biocompatibility and tunable biodegradability for the preparation of functional particle materials regardless of their surface chemical and physical structures. Recently, the natural polysaccharide polymers (e.g. chitosan and cellulose), polyphenol-based biopolymers (e.g. polydopamine and tannic acid), and proteins (e.g. amyloid-like aggregates) have been utilized in surface modification of particles, and applications of these modified particles in the field of biomedicine have been also intensively exploited. In this review, the preparation of the above three coatings on particles surface are summarized, and the applications of these materials in drug loading/release, biomineralization, cell immobilization/protection, enzyme immobilization/protection, and antibacterial/antiviral are exemplified. Finally, the challenges and the future research directions on biopolymer coating for particles surface engineering are prospected.

A critical review on utilization of sewage sludge as environmental functional materials

Sewage sludge (SS) is increasingly used as an environment functional material to reduce or control pollution and improve plant growth because of the large amounts of carbon and essential plant nutrients in it. To achieve the best application results, it is essential to comprehensively review recent progress in SS utilization. This review aims to fill the gaps in knowledge by describing the properties of SS, and its usage as adsorbents, catalysts and fertilizers, and certain application mechanisms. Although SS generates several benefits for the environment and humans, many challenges still exist to limit the application, including the risks posed by potentially toxic substances (e.g., heavy metals) in SS. Therefore, future research directions are discussed and how to make SS applications more feasible in terms of technology and economy.

Development of alginate-spermidine micro/nanogels as potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory tool in peripheral nerve injuries. Formulation studies and physico-chemical characterization

The development of a successful strategy to ensure a full recovery in patients affected by peripheral nerve injury (PNI), one of the most debilitating pathologies, is, still today, a major clinical challenge. Herein, spermidine (SP), an endogenous polyamine, is employed with a dual role: as cross-linking agent for alginate (ALG) and as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound. In particular, micro/nanogels based on the ionic interaction between ALG and SP were obtained via ionotropic gelation. Different ALG concentrations and viscosity grades and different SP concentrations were considered. The influence of such variables on micro/nanogels size was investigated by means of a Design of Experiments (DoE) approach (full factorial design). The formation of micro/nanogels was proved by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) analysis and by rheological and profilometry measurements. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) measurements performed on nanogels of optimal composition confirmed SP-ALG interaction. The addition of trehalose as cryoprotectant agent to nanogel dispersion was considered in view of the employment of freeze-drying process to obtain a stable product. Moreover, in vitro studies on Schwann cells proved the ability of SP of expressing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, even if involved in the formation of nanogels.

Drug-Loaded Chitosan Scaffolds for Periodontal Tissue Regeneration

Chitosan is a natural anionic polysaccharide with a changeable architecture and an abundance of functional groups; in addition, it can be converted into various shapes and sizes, making it appropriate for a variety of applications. This article examined and summarized current developments in chitosan-based materials, with a focus on the modification of chitosan, and presented an abundance of information about the fabrication and use of chitosan-derived products in periodontal regeneration. Numerous preparation and modification techniques for enhancing chitosan performance, as well as the uses of chitosan and its metabolites, were reviewed critically and discussed in depth in this study. Chitosan-based products may be formed into different shapes and sizes, considering fibers, nanostructures, gels, membranes, and hydrogels. Various drug-loaded chitosan devices were discussed regarding periodontal regeneration.

Advances in Protein-Based Nanocarriers of Bioactive Compounds: From Microscopic Molecular Principles to Macroscopical Structural and Functional Attributes

Many proteins can be used to fabricate nanocarriers for encapsulation, protection, and controlled release of nutraceuticals. This review examined the protein-based nanocarriers from microscopic molecular characteristics to the macroscopical structural and functional attributes. Structural, physical, and chemical properties of protein-based nanocarriers were introduced in detail. The spatial size, shape, water dispersibility, colloidal stability, etc. of protein-based nanocarriers were largely determined by the molecular physicochemical principles of protein. Different preparative techniques, including antisolvent precipitation, pH-driven, electrospray, and gelation methods, among others, can be used to fabricate different protein-based nanocarriers. Various modifications based on physical, chemical, and enzymatic approaches can be used to improve the functional performance of these nanocarriers. Protein is a natural resource with a wide range of sources, including plant, animal, and microbial, which are usually used to fabricate the nanocarriers. Protein-based nanocarriers have many advantages in aid of the application of bioactive ingredients to the medical, food, and cosmetic industries.

Preparation and Characterization of Beads of Sodium Alginate/Carboxymethyl Chitosan/Cellulose Nanofiber Containing Porous Starch Embedded with Gallic Acid: An In Vitro Simulation Delivery Study

In this study, a system was designed that can encapsulate and deliver gallic acid (GA), which was composed of polysaccharide polymers based on sodium alginate (SA), carboxymethyl chitosan (CCT), and cellulose nanofibers (CN) and was assisted by porous starch. The compositions were characterized by rheology and zeta potentials, and the results showed that the materials used in this study could effectively guarantee the stability of the system. The morphology and chemical structure of the beads were characterized by SEM and FT-IR, the results indicated that the addition of CCT could effectively reduce the cracks and pores on the surface of the beads, which was beneficial to the encapsulation and delivery of GA. Moreover, the results of the swelling rate, release tests, and antioxidant tests also proved the effectiveness of the system. The pH response effect of SA/CN/CCT (SCC) beads and the protection of GA were superior, and the release rate of GA in simulated gastric fluid (SGF) was only 6.95%, while SA and SA/CN (SCN) beads reached 57.94% and 78.49%, respectively. In conclusion, the interpenetrating network polymers constructed by SA, CCT, and CN, which, combined with porous starch as a coating layer, can achieve the embedding and the delivery of GA.