Assemble behavior of ultrasound-induced quinoa protein nanoparticles and their roles on rheological properties and stability of high internal phase emulsions

Investigating the impact of ultrasound on the structural, physicochemical, and emulsifying characteristics of Dioscorin: Insights from experimental data and molecular dynamics simulation

This study investigated the impact of ultrasound treatment on dioscorin, the primary storage protein found in yam tubers. Three key factors, namely ultrasound power, duration, and frequency, were focused on. The research revealed that ultrasound-induced cavitation effects disrupted non-covalent bonds, resulting in a reduction in α-helix and β-sheet contents, decreased thermal stability, and a decrease in the apparent hydrodynamic diameter (Dh) of dioscorin. Additionally, previously hidden amino acid groups within the molecule became exposed on its surface, resulting in increased surface hydrophobicity (Ho) and zeta-potential. Under specific ultrasound conditions (200 W, 25 kHz, 30 min), Dh decreased while Ho increased, facilitating the adsorption of dioscorin molecules onto the oil-water interface. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations showed that at lower frequencies and pressures, the structural flexibility of dioscorin's main chain atoms increased, leading to more significant fluctuations between amino acid residues. This transformation improved dioscorin's emulsifying properties and its oil-water interface affinity.

Lentil protein isolate (Lens culinaris) subjected to ultrasound treatment combined or not with heat-treatment: structural characterization and ability to stabilize high internal phase emulsions

This study evaluated the effect of ultrasound treatment combined or not with heat treatment applied to lentil protein isolate (LPI) aiming to enhance its ability to stabilize high internal phase emulsions (HIPE). LPI dispersion (2%, w/w) was ultrasound-treated at 60% (UA) and 70% (UB) amplitude for 7 min; these samples were subjected to and then heat treatments at 70 °C (UAT70 and UBT70, respectively) or 80 °C (UAT80 and UBT80, respectively) for 20 min. HIPEs were produced with 25% untreated and treated LPI dispersions and 75% soybean oil using a rotor-stator (15,500 rpm/1 min). The LPI dispersions were evaluated for particle size, solubility, differential scanning calorimetry, electrophoresis, secondary structure estimation (circular dichroism and FT-IR), intrinsic fluorescence, surface hydrophobicity, and free sulfhydryl groups content. The HIPEs were evaluated for droplet size, morphology, rheology, centrifugal stability, and the Turbiscan test. Ultrasound treatment decreased LPI dispersions' particle size (∼80%) and increased solubility (∼90%). Intrinsic fluorescence and surface hydrophobicity confirmed LPI modification due to the exposure to hydrophobic patches. The combination of ultrasound and heat treatments resulted in a reduction in the free sulfhydryl group content of LPI. HIPEs produced with ultrasound-heat-treated LPI had a lower droplet size distribution mode, greater oil retention values in the HIPE structure (> 98%), lower Turbiscan stability index (< 2), and a firmer and more homogeneous appearance compared to HIPE produced with untreated LPI, indicating higher stability for the HIPEs stabilized by treated LPI. Therefore, combining ultrasound and heat treatments could be an effective method for the functional modification of lentil proteins, allowing their application as HIPE emulsifiers.

The development of nanocarriers for natural products

Natural bioactive compounds from plants exhibit substantial pharmacological potency and therapeutic value. However, the development of most plant bioactive compounds is hindered by low solubility and instability. Conventional pharmaceutical forms, such as tablets and capsules, only partially overcome these limitations, restricting their efficacy. With the recent development of nanotechnology, nanocarriers can enhance the bioavailability, stability, and precise intracellular transport of plant bioactive compounds. Researchers are increasingly integrating nanocarrier-based drug delivery systems (NDDS) into the development of natural plant compounds with significant success. Moreover, natural products benefit from nanotechnological enhancement and contribute to the innovation and optimization of nanocarriers via self-assembly, grafting modifications, and biomimetic designs. This review aims to elucidate the collaborative and reciprocal advancement achieved by integrating nanocarriers with botanical products, such as bioactive compounds, polysaccharides, proteins, and extracellular vesicles. This review underscores the salient challenges in nanomedicine, encompassing long-term safety evaluations of nanomedicine formulations, precise targeting mechanisms, biodistribution complexities, and hurdles in clinical translation. Further, this study provides new perspectives to leverage nanotechnology in promoting the development and optimization of natural plant products for nanomedical applications and guiding the progression of NDDS toward enhanced efficiency, precision, and safety. This article is categorized under: Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology.

High Internal Phase Emulsions Stabilized with Ultrasound-Modified Spirulina Protein for Curcumin Delivery

Spirulina protein (SP) is recognized as a nutritious edible microbial protein and holds potential as a natural emulsifier. Due to the inherent challenges SP faces in stabilizing high internal phase emulsions (HIPEs), ultrasonic techniques were utilized for modification. Noticeable alterations in the structural and functional properties of SP were observed following ultrasonic treatment at various power levels (0, 100, 300, and 500 W). Ultrasound treatment disrupted non-covalent interactions within the protein polymer structure, leading to the unfolding of molecular structures and the exposure of hydrophobic groups. Importantly, the particle size of SP was reduced the most at an ultrasonic power of 300 W, and the three-phase contact angle reached its peak at 84.3°. The HIPEs stabilized by SP modified with 300 W ultrasonication have high apparent viscosity and modulus values and strong storage stability under different environmental conditions. Additionally, the encapsulation of curcumin in HIPEs led to improved retention of curcumin across various settings. The bioavailability increased to 35.36, which is 2.8 times higher than the pure oil. These findings suggest that ultrasound-modified SP is a promising emulsifier for HIPEs, and is expected to encapsulate hydrophobic nutrients such as curcumin more effectively.

Stabilizing effect of silver carp myofibrillar protein modified by high intensity ultrasound on high internal phase emulsions: Protein denaturation, interfacial adsorption and reconfiguration

This study evaluated the impact of high intensity ultrasound (HIU) on myofibrillar proteins (MP) from silver carp, and investigated the stabilizing effect of HIU-treated MP (UMP) on high internal phase emulsions (HIPEs). Ultrasonic cavitation induced protein denaturation by decreasing size and unfolding conformation, to expose more hydrophobic groups, particularly UMP at 390 W, showing the smallest particle size (181.71 nm) and most uniform distribution. These structural changes caused that UMP under 390 W exhibited the highest surface hydrophobicity, solubility (92.72 %) and emulsibility (115.98 m2/g and 70.4 min), all of which contributed to fabricating stable HIPEs with oil volume fraction up to 0.8. UMP-based HIPEs possessed tightly packed gel network and self-supporting appearance due to the adsorption of numerous proteins at the oil-water interface and the reduction of interfacial tension by protein reconfiguration. The larger interface coverage reinforced cross-linking between interfacial proteins, thus increasing the viscoelasticity and recoverability of HIPEs, also the resistance to centrifugal force, high temperature (90 °C, 30 min) and freeze-thaw cycles. These findings furnished insightful perspectives for MP deep processing through HIU, expanding the high-value application of UMP-based HIPEs in fat replacer, nutritional delivery system with high encapsulation content and novel 3D printing ink.

Quinoa protein/polysaccharide electrostatic complex stabilized vegan high internal phase emulsions for 3D printing: Role of complex state and gelling-type polysaccharides

Rational selection of the complex state and polysaccharide type may enhance the performance of electrostatic complex stabilized high internal phase emulsions (HIPEs). Herein, quinoa proteins were extracted to form electrostatic complexes separately with three gelling-type polysaccharides to fabricate HIPEs. Results showed that the complexes in soluble state (pH 8.4-5.6) exhibited moderate size, high negative potential and enhanced protein hydrophobicity, and could achieve HIPEs with 84% oil phase upon acidification to pH 6 at low concentrations. Its excellent interfacial structure enhanced stability during heating, freeze-thawing and long-term storage, and exhibited promising 3D printing potential. Furthermore, the complexes formed by sulfated polysaccharide carrageenan had higher amphiphilicity than those formed by carboxylated polysaccharide pectin or sodium alginate, and their stabilized HIPE had preferable droplet size, stability and 3D printing resolution than its counterparts. This study may provide new insights into the performance enhancement of protein/polysaccharide electrostatic complex stabilized HIPEs.

Revealing the synergistic effect of hydration and pulsed ultrasound on the emulsifying properties of silkworm pupa protein and its stabilized emulsion

BACKGROUND

Silkworm (Bombyx moil L.) Pupa protein (SPP) is a high-quality insect protein and is considered a sustainable alternative source for traditional animal food protein. However, the utilization of SPP is limited because of its low solubility and emulsifying ability. In the present study, the synergistic effect of hydration and pulsed ultrasound on the physicochemical properties of SPP and SPP-stabilized Pickering emulsions was evaluated.

RESULTS

Pulsed ultrasound changed the particle size of SPP and its conformation. As the pulsed ultrasound increased from 0 s to 5 s, the α-helix and SS contents of SPP decreased, whereas the β-sheet and SH contents increased, which in turn improved its solubility and amphiphilicity. As a result, the SPP treated by a combination of 12 h of hydration and 3 s of ultrasound exhibited a contact angle of 74.95°, hydrophobicity of 904.83, EAI of 6.66 m2  g-1 and ESI of 190.69 min. Compared with the combination of 1 h of hydration and 5 s of ultrasound, the combination of 12 h of hydration and 3 s of ultrasound exerted more soluble and hydrophobic SPP, whereas the EAI and ESI of the samples were higher. Notably, the ultrasound-treated SPP can form a stable gel-like emulsion (oil fraction ranging from 70% to 80%).

CONCLUSION

The combination of hydration and ultrasound can effectively improve the physicochemical characteristics of SPP as well as its emulsion stability. Sufficient hydration is a cost-effective method for facilitating the modification of proteins by ultrasound treatment. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Microfluidized hemp protein isolate: an effective stabilizer for high-internal-phase emulsions with improved oxidative stability

BACKGROUND

Hemp protein isolates (HPIs), which provide a well-balanced profile of essential amino acids comparable to other high-quality proteins, have recently garnered significant attention. However, the underutilized functional attributes of HPIs have constrained their potential commercial applications within the food and agriculture field. This study advocates the utilization of dynamic-high-pressure-microfluidization (DHPM) for the production of stable high-internal-phase emulsions (HIPEs), offering an efficient approach to fully exploit the potential of HPI resources.

RESULTS

The findings underscore the effectiveness of DHPM in producing HPI as a stabilizing agent for HIPEs with augmented antioxidant activity. Microfluidized HPI exhibited consistent adsorption and anchoring at the oil-water interface, resulting in the formation of a dense and compact layer. Concurrently, the compression of droplets within HIPEs gave rise to a polyhedral framework, conferring viscoelastic properties and a quasi-solid behavior to the emulsion. Remarkably, HIPEs stabilized by microfluidized HPI demonstrated superior oxidative and storage stability, attributable to the establishment of an antioxidative barrier by microfluidized HPI particles.

CONCLUSION

This study presents an appealing approach for transforming liquid oils into solid-like fats using HPI particles, all without the need for surfactants. HIPEs stabilized by microfluidized HPI particles hold promise as emerging food ingredients for the development of emulsion-based formulations with enhanced oxidative stability, thereby finding application in the food and agricultural industries. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Correlationship between self-assembly behavior and emulsion stabilization of pea protein-high methoxyl pectin complexes treated with ultrasound at pH 2.0

This study investigated the effects of ultrasound on the self-assembly behavior of pea protein (PP)-high methoxyl pectin (HMP) complexes at pH 2.0 through transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and intrinsic fluorescence analysis. The emulsion stabilization mechanism of PP-HMP treated with ultrasound (PP-HMP-US) was also elucidated. The results indicated that ultrasound increased the emulsifying activity index (EAI) and emulsifying stability index (ESI) of PP-HMP. Moreover, PP-HMP-US-based emulsions formed small, dispersed oil drops, which were stable during storage. PP-HMP- and PP-HMP-US-based emulsions did not demonstrate any creaming. The TEM results revealed that ultrasound can regulate the self-assembly behavior of PP and HMP to form spherical particles with a core-shell structure. This structure possessed low turbidity, a small particle size, and high absolute zeta potential values. The FTIR and intrinsic fluorescence spectra demonstrated that ultrasound increased the α-helix and β-sheet contents and exposed the tryptophan groups to more hydrophilic environments. Ultrasound also promoted the PP-HMP self-assembly through electrostatic interaction and improved its oil-water interfacial behavior, as indicated by the EAI and ESI values of PP-HMP-US-based emulsions. The current results provide a reference for the development of an innovative emulsifier prepared by ultrasound-treated protein-pectin complexes at low pH.

High internal phase Pickering emulsions stabilised by ultrasound-induced soy protein-β-glucan-catechin complex nanoparticles to enhance the stability and bioaccessibility of curcumin

AIMS

To evaluate the potential applications of soy protein-glucan-catechin (SGC) complexes prepared with different ultrasound times in stabilising high internal phase Pickering emulsion (HIPPE) and delivering curcumin.

METHODS

The SGC complexes were characterised by particle size, morphology, zeta potential, Fourier transform infra-red, and fluorescence spectroscopy. Formation and stability of curcumin emulsions were monitored by droplet size, microstructure, rheological property, lipid oxidation, and in vitro digestion.

RESULTS

Short-time ultrasound-induced complexes (SGC-U15) exhibited a small size and wettability of ∼82.5°. The chemical stability and bioaccessibility of curcumin was greatly improved by SGC-U15-stabilised HIPPEs, even after 70 days of storage, heating at 100 °C for 30 min, ultraviolet irradiation for 120 min, and in vitro digestion, owing to the formation of elastic gel-like structure at the oil/water interfaces.

CONCLUSION

Our findings may contribute to the design of emulsion-based delivery systems using ultrasound-induced protein-polysaccharide-polyphenol complexes.

Intestine-targeted high internal phase Pickering emulsion formulated using silkworm pupa protein via ultrasonic treatment

High internal phase Pickering emulsions (HIPPEs) stabilized by food grade particles have received much attention as deliver vehicles for bioactives in recent years. In this study, ultrasonic treatment was conducted to regulate the size of silkworm pupa protein (SPP) particles, fabricating oil-in-water (O/W) HIPPEs with intestinal releasability. Briefly, the pretreated SPP and SPP-stabilized HIPPEs were characterized, and the targeting release was investigated using in vitro gastrointestinal simulations and sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Results revealed ultrasonic treatment time was the key factor regulating emulsification performance and stability of HIPPEs. Optimized SPP particles were obtained based on their size and zeta potential of 152.67 nm and 26.77 mV, respectively. With ultrasonic treatment, the hydrophobic groups in the secondary structure of SPP were exposed, facilitating the formation of a stable oil-water interface for HIPPEs. Additionally, SPP-stabilized HIPPE showed high stable against the gastric digestion. The SPP with 70 kDa molecular weight, which was the major interfacial proteins of the HIPPE, can be hydrolyzed by intestinal digestive enzymes, enabling the intestine-targeted release of the emulsion. Overall, in the present study, a facile method was developed to stabilize HIPPEs using solo SPP with ultrasonic treatment to protect and deliver hydrophobic bioactive ingredients.

Encapsulation of polyphenols in protein-based nanoparticles: Preparation, properties, and applications

Polyphenols have a variety of physiological activities, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, their applications are often limited because due to the instability of polyphenols. Encapsulation technologies can be employed to overcome these problems and increase the utilization of polyphenols. In this article, the utilization of protein-based nanoparticles for encapsulating polyphenols is reviewed due to their good biocompatibility, biodegradability, and functional attributes. Initially, the various kinds of animal and plant proteins available for forming protein nanoparticles are discussed, as well as the fabrication methods that can be used to assemble these nanoparticles. The molecular interaction mechanisms between proteins and polyphenols are then summarized. Applications of protein-based nanoparticles for encapsulating polyphenols are then discussed, including as nutrient delivery systems, in food packaging materials, and in the creation of functional foods. Finally, areas where further research is need on the development, characterization, and application of protein-based polyphenol-loaded nanoparticles are highlighted.

Nutrient composition, functional activity and industrial applications of quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.)

Quinoa is one of the gluten-free crops that has attracted considerable interest. Quinoa contains functional ingredients such as bioactive peptides, polysaccharides, saponins, polyphenols, flavonoids and other compounds. It is very important to determine efficient methods to identify such functional ingredients, and to explain their possible health benefits in humans. In this review, the chemical structure and biological activity mechanisms of quinoa nutrient composition have been elaborated. In addition, the development of quinoa-based functional foods and feed is emerging, providing a reference for the development of functional products with quinoa as an ingredient that are beneficial to health. The active ingredients in quinoa have different health effects including antioxidant, antidiabetic, antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, and anti-obesity activities. Further exploration is also needed to improve the application of quinoa within the functional food industry, and in the areas of feed, medicine and cosmetics.

Research Progress of Quinoa Seeds (Chenopodium quinoa Wild.): Nutritional Components, Technological Treatment, and Application

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Wild.) is a pseudo-grain that belongs to the amaranth family and has gained attention due to its exceptional nutritional properties. Compared to other grains, quinoa has a higher protein content, a more balanced amino acid profile, unique starch features, higher levels of dietary fiber, and a variety of phytochemicals. In this review, the physicochemical and functional properties of the major nutritional components in quinoa are summarized and compared to those of other grains. Our review also highlights the technological approaches used to improve the quality of quinoa-based products. The challenges of formulating quinoa into food products are addressed, and strategies for overcoming these challenges through technological innovation are discussed. This review also provides examples of common applications of quinoa seeds. Overall, the review underscores the potential benefits of incorporating quinoa into the diet and the importance of developing innovative approaches to enhance the nutritional quality and functionality of quinoa-based products.

Effect of salt treatment on the stabilization of Pickering emulsions prepared with rice bran protein

In this study, salt addition (NaCl and CaCl₂) was utilized to improve the stability of emulsions formed by rice bran protein (RBP). The result showed that salt addition improved the adsorption of protein on the oil-water interface and enhanced the physical stability of emulsions. Compared to NaCl condition, emulsions with CaCl₂ (especially 200 mM) addition exhibited more significant storage stability, as microscopy images showed emulsion structure unchanged and droplet size increasing slightly from 12.02 µm to 16.04 µm in 7 days. It was attributed to the strengthened particle complexation with CaCl₂ and the increased hydrophobic interactions, which is explained by the improved particle size (260.93 nm), surface hydrophobicity (1890.10) and fluorescence intensity, thus inducing dense and hardly destroyed interfacial layers. Rheological behavior analyses suggested that salt-induced emulsions had higher viscoelasticity and maintained a stable gel-like structure. The result of study explored the mechanism of salt treated protein particles, developed a further understanding of Pickering emulsion, and was beneficial to the application of RBP.

Construction of transglutaminase covalently cross-linked hydrogel and high internal phase emulsion gel from pea protein modified by high-intensity ultrasound

BACKGROUND

The poor gelling and emulsification properties of pea protein (PeaP) limit its application in gel-based products. In this study, a strong hydrogel and a high internal phase emulsion (HPLE) gel of PeaP were constructed by covalent cross-linking of transglutaminase (TGase) assisted by high-intensity ultrasound.

RESULTS

Ultrasound promoted the catalytic efficiency of TGase, with the gel-point temperature dropping from 44 °C to 28 °C after 10 min of ultrasound. As the ultrasound time increased from 1 min to 10 min, the microstructure of the hydrogel also changed from an irregular macropore structure to a relatively homogeneous honeycomb structure. This was accompanied by an improvement in gel strength, water holding capacity, and ultimate stress. Ultrasound enhanced the binding of water to PeaP, but had little effect on the water-locking ability of the network structure. Ultrasonication improved the self-supporting ability of the HPIE gels. The oil droplets within the HPIE gels were closely aligned to form a hexagonal structure. The PeaP layer was further cross-linked by TGase, strengthening the network structure. High internal phase emulsion gel displayed a higher gel strength, viscosity, and good self-healing ability under 1 min ultrasound. Meanwhile, HPIE gel at 1 min of ultrasound could be printed with the highest clarity.

CONCLUSION

This work provided some insights into improving the functional properties of PeaP, which is helpful for the design and development of PeaP-based gel products. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Biopolymer-based pickering high internal phase emulsions: Intrinsic composition of matrix components, fundamental characteristics and perspective

Pickering HIPEs have received tremendous attention in recent years due to their superior stability and unique solid-like and rheological properties. Biopolymer-based colloidal particles derived from proteins, polysaccharides and polyphenols have been demonstrated to be safety stabilizers for the construction of Pickering HIPEs, which can meet the demands of consumers for "all-natural" products and provide "clean-label" foods. Furthermore, the functionality of these biopolymers can be further extended by forming composite, conjugated and multi-component colloidal particles, which can be used to modulate the properties of the interfacial layer, thereby adjusting the performance and stability of Pickering HIPEs. In this review, the factors affecting the interfacial behavior and adsorption characteristics of colloidal particles are discussed. The intrinsic composition of matrix components and fundamental characteristics of Pickering HIPEs are emphatically summarized, and the emerging applications of Pickering HIPEs in the food industry are reviewed. Inspired by these findings, future perspectives concerning this field are also put forward, including (1) the exploration of the interactions between biopolymers used to produce Pickering HIPEs and target food ingredients, and the influence of the added biopolymers on the flavor and mouthfeel of the products, (2) the investigation of the digestion properties of Pickering HIPEs under oral administration, and (3) the fabrication of stimulus-responsive or transparent Pickering HIPEs. This review will give a reference for exploring more natural biopolymers for Pickering HIPEs application development.

Ultrasonic treatment influences the compactness of quinoa protein microstructure and improves the structural integrity of quinoa protein at the interfaces of high internal phase emulsion

For native quinoa protein with a loose disordered structure and low structural integrity, once the protein is absorbed to the oil-water interface, the stress of interfacial tension and hydrophobic interaction can easily trigger the conformation change and denaturation of quinoa protein, leading to the instability of high internal phase emulsion (HIPE). Ultrasonic treatment can induce the refolding and self-assembling of quinoa protein microstructure, which is expected to frustrate the disruption of protein microstructure. The particle size, tertiary structure, and secondary structure of quinoa protein isolate particle (QPI) were investigated by multi-spectroscopic technology. The study demonstrates that QPIs prepared with ultrasonic treatment of 5 kJ/mL exhibit more robust structural integrity compared with native QPIs. The relatively loose structure (random coil, 28.15 ± 1.06 %∼25.10 ± 0.28 %) transformed to a more ordered and compact form (α-helix, 5.65 ± 0.07 %∼6.80 ± 0.28 %). Through the addition of QPI-based HIPE as an alternative for commercial shortening, the specific volume of white bread was increased (2.74 ± 0.35 ∼ 3.58 ± 0.04 cm³/g).

Effect of ultrasonic pretreatment on the rheology and structure of grass pea (Lathyrus sativus L.) protein emulsion gels induced by transglutaminase

In this study, emulsion gels were prepared by sonicated grass pea protein isolates (GPPI) at different ultrasonic amplitudes (25, 50 and 75 %) and times (5, 10 and 20 min). Formation of emulsion gels was induced by transglutaminase. Enzymatic gelation of emulsions stabilized by sonicated GPPI occurred in two stages. A relatively fast stage led to the formation of a weak gel which was followed by a slow stage that strongly reinforced the gel structure. Emulsion gels fabricated by sonicated GPPIs showed a homogeneous and uniform droplet distribution with higher elastic modulus compared to the native protein. A stiffer emulsion gel with a higher G' was formed after the protein was treated at 75 % amplitude for 10 min. After sonication of GPPI, the water holding capacity (WHC) of emulsion gels increased in accordance with the mechanical properties. Higher intermolecular cross-linking within the gel network increased the thermal stability of emulsion gels fabricated by sonicated GPPI. Although sonicated-GPPI emulsion gels clearly displayed homogenous microstructure in comparison to that made with native GPPI, the microstructures of these gels were nearly identical for all sonication amplitudes and times.

Development of high-internal-phase emulsions stabilized by soy protein isolate-dextran complex for the delivery of quercetin

BACKGROUND

Protein-polysaccharide complexes have been widely used to stabilize high-internal-phase emulsion (HIPEs). However, it is still unknown whether soy protein isolate-dextran (SPI-Dex) complexes can stabilize HIPEs or what is the effect of Dex concentration on the HIPEs. Furthermore, the non-covalent interaction mechanism between SPI and Dex is also unclear. Therefore, we fabricated SPI-Dex complexes and used them to stabilize HIPEs-loaded quercetin and explore the interaction mechanism between SPI and Dex, as well as the effect of Dex concentration on the particle size, ζ-potential, microstructure, rheology, quercetin encapsulation efficiency, and gastrointestinal fate of the HIPEs.

RESULTS

Spectral analysis (fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet spectroscopy, and fluorescence spectroscopy) results identified the formation of SPI-Dex complexes, and indicated that the addition of Dex changed the spatial structure of SPI, whereas thermodynamic analysis (ΔH > 0, ΔS > 0) showed that hydrophobic interactions were the main driving forces in the formation of SPI-Dex complexes. Compared with HIPEs stabilized by SPI, the SPI-Dex complex-stabilized HIPEs had smaller particles (3000.33 ± 201.22 nm), as well as higher ζ-potential (-21.73 ± 1.10 mV), apparent viscosities, modulus, and quercetin encapsulation efficiency (98.19 ± 0.14%). In addition, in vitro digestion revealed that SPI-Dex complex-stabilized HIPEs significantly reduced the release of free fatty acid and improved quercetin bioaccessibility.

CONCLUSION

HIPEs stabilized by SPI-Dex complexes delayed the release of free fat acid and improved the bioaccessibility of quercetin, and may be help in designing delivery systems for bioactive substances with specific properties. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Dual improvement in curcumin encapsulation efficiency and lyophilized complex dispersibility through ultrasound regulation of curcumin-protein assembly

Ultrasound has a recognized ability to modulate the structure and function of proteins. Discovering the influential mechanism of ultrasound on the intramolecular interactions of egg-white protein isolate-curcumin (EPI-Cur) nanoparticles and their intermolecular interaction during freeze drying and redispersion is meaningful. In this study, under the extension of pre-sonication time, the protein solubility, surface hydrophobicity, and curcumin encapsulation rate showed an increasing trend, reaching the highest value at 12 min of treatment. However, the values decreased under the followed extension of ultrasound time. After freeze drying and redispersion were applied, the EPI-Cur sample under 12 min of ultrasound treatment exhibited minimal aggregation degree and loss of curcumin. The retention and loading rates of curcumin in the lyophilized powder reached 96 % and 33.60 mg/g EPI, respectively. However, under excessive ultrasound of >12 min, scanning electron microscopy showed distinct blocky aggregates. Overexposure of the hydrophobic region of the protein triggered protein-mediated hydrophobic aggregation after freeze drying. X-ray diffraction patterns showed the highest crystallinity, indicating that the free curcumin-mediated hydrophobic aggregation during freeze drying was enhanced by the concentration effect and intensified the formation of larger aggregates. This work has practical significance for developing the delivery of hydrophobic active substances. It provides theoretical value for the dynamic dispersity change in protein-hydrophobic active substances during freeze drying and redissolving.

Effects of quinoa protein Pickering emulsion on the properties, structure and intermolecular interactions of myofibrillar protein gel

The effects of quinoa protein Pickering emulsion (QPE) on the gel properties, protein structure and intermolecular interactions of myofibrillar protein (MP) gels were studied. Compared with the MP gels without QPE, the MP gels with 5.0%-7.5% added QPE showed significant increasing trends in storage modulus (G'), whiteness, gel strength and water holding capacity (WHC). The content of disulfide bonds in the gel increased with the addition of QPE and the disulfide bond conformation changed from gauche-gauche-gauche to gauche-gauche-trans. Moreover, the increase of hydrogen bonds after QPE addition confirmed the transformation from α-helix to β-sheet, as β-sheet structure was stabilized by interchain hydrogen bonds. The added QPE also enhanced the hydrophobic interaction and electrostatic interaction of MP gels. To conclude, the addition of 5.0%-7.5% QPE improved the intermolecular interactions and the structure stability of MP gels, and enhanced the gelation and WHC of MP gels.

High internal phase emulsions stabilized solely by sonicated quinoa protein isolate at various pH values and concentrations

In this study, stable high internal phase emulsions (HIPEs) constructed solely by sonicated quinoa protein isolate (QPI) at various pH values and protein concentrations (c) were constructed, and differences of HIPE microstructures at these conditions were discussed. HIPEs stabilized by QPI at pH 7.0, 9.0 possessed smaller droplet size (14-24 μm), smoother appearance, and higher physical stability which were caused by polyhedral framework microstructure. However, at acidic conditions, QPI aggregates filled in the gaps between droplets (30-52 μm) instead of adsorbing to oil-water interface, which decreased the stability. The solid-like viscoelasticity of HIPEs were enhanced when the c increased while the increment of pH value had the significant opposite effect (decreased from about G' 1000 Pa, G″ 280 Pa to G' 350 Pa, G″ 50 Pa) due to the microstructure difference. This study broadens the commercial applications of quinoa protein in novel food products like fat substitutes.

Impact of low-frequency ultrasound technology on physical, chemical and technological properties of cereals and pseudocereals

Cereals (CE) and pseudocereals (PSCE) play a pivotal role in nourishing the human population. Low-frequency ultrasound (LFUS) modifies the structure of CE and PSCE macromolecules such as starch and proteins, often improving their technological, functional and bioactive properties. Hence, it is employed for enhancing the traditional processes utilized for the preparation of CE- and PSCE-based foods as well as for the upcycling of their by-products. We report recent advances in LFUS treatments for hydration, germination, extraction of bioactive compounds from by-products, and fortification of CEs and PSCE, including kinetic modelling and underlying action mechanisms. Meta-analyses of LFUS influence on compounds extraction and starch gelatinization are also presented. LFUS enhances hydration rate and time lag phase of CE and PSCE, essential for germination, extraction, fermentation and cooking. The germination is improved by increasing hydration, releasing promoters and eliminating inhibitors. Furthermore, LFUS boosts the extraction of phenolic compounds, polysaccharides and other food components; modifies starch structure, affecting pasting properties; causes partial denaturation of proteins, improving their interfacial properties and their peptides availability. Overall, LFUS has an outstanding potential to improve transformation processes and functionalities of CE and PSCE.

Recent advances in modified food proteins by high intensity ultrasound for enhancing functionality: Potential mechanisms, combination with other methods, equipment innovations and future directions

High intensity ultrasound (HIU) is an efficient and green technology that has recently received enormous research attention for modification of food proteins. However, there are still several knowledge gaps in the possible mechanisms, synergistic effects of HIU with other strategies and improvement of HIU equipment that contribute to its application in the food industry. This review focuses on the recent research progress on the effects and potential mechanisms of HIU on the structure (including secondary and tertiary structure) and functionality (including solubility, emulsibility, foamability, and gelability) of proteins. Furthermore, the combination methods and innovations of HIU equipment for proteins modification in recent years are also detailed. Meanwhile, the possible future trends of food proteins modification by HIU are also considered and proposed.

Modification of functional properties of perilla protein isolate by high-intensity ultrasonic treatment and the stability of o/w emulsion

This study investigated the effects of ultrasonic treatment on the structural characteristics and functional properties of perilla protein isolate (PPI). Besides, the performance of the emulsions stabilized by ultrasonic-treated PPI was analyzed, aiming at exploring the potential mechanism of ultrasonic technology to improve emulsion stability. Results showed that ultrasonic treatment reduced the particle size, induced the exposure of hydrophobic groups and changes in the secondary structure and tertiary conformation of PPI. However, the molecular weight and the crystalline regions were remained unchanged. Apart from this, ultrasonic treatment improved the solubility, water/oil holding capacity, foaming and emulsifying capacity of PPI. Furthermore, the emulsions prepared by ultrasonic-treated PPI possessed the highest stability, which might be due to the smaller droplets size and reduced droplets attraction by higher proportion of interfacial adsorbed protein. This findings will provide a new insight into the application of ultrasonic to improve the stability of PPI-stabilized emulsions.

Recent Developments in the Formulation and Use of Polymers and Particles of Plant-based Origin for Emulsion Stabilizations

The main scope of this Review was the recent progress in the use of plant-based polymers and particles for the stabilization of Pickering and non-Pickering emulsion systems. Due to their availability and promising performance, it was discussed how the source, modification, and formulation of cellulose, starch, protein, and lignin-based polymers and particles would impact their emulsion stabilization. Special attention was given toward the material synthesis in two forms of polymeric surfactants and particles and the corresponding formulated emulsions. Also, the effects of particle size, degree of aggregation, wettability, degree of substitution, and electrical charge in stabilizing oil/water systems and micro- and macro-structures of oil droplets were discussed. The wide range of applications using such plant-based stabilizers in different technologies as well as their challenge and future perspectives were described.

Self-Assembled Micellar Nanoparticles by Enzymatic Hydrolysis of High-Density Lipoprotein for the Formation and Stability of High Internal Phase Emulsions

In this study, the influence of pH on the conformational state of EHT, which was obtained from the enzymatic hydrolysis of trypsin, and the stabilizing properties of high internal phase emulsions have been demonstrated. Critical micelle concentration and transmission electron microscopy results exhibited the formation of micellar nanoparticles with mean diameters ranging from 108 to 1359.5 nm. The results of solubility, surface hydrophobicity, and conformations indicated that EHT tended to act as particulate emulsifiers at pH 3, 5, and 7, while at alkaline pH, it was more like a polymeric emulsifier, which could be proven by confocal laser scanning microscopy. The EHT at pH 7 exhibited better stabilizing properties than those at pH 9 and 11 as influenced by storage, temperature, and ionic strength. These findings might be of great importance for broadening the range of sustainable applications of amphiphilic peptides in foods and pharmaceuticals.

Sound methods for the synthesis of nanoparticles from biological molecules

The development of simple, green, reproducible, and scalable approaches for synthesizing nanoparticles from biomolecules is important to advance nanomaterials towards therapeutic applications. Microreactors generated by high frequency ultrasound provide a one pot-platform to alter the physiochemical properties and stability of various types of biomolecules to ultimately generate multifunctional nanoparticles with controlled size and morphology. Herein, recent advancements in the field of nanoparticles fabrication from amino acids, phenolics, peptides and proteins using both high and low frequency ultrasound are reviewed. In particular, the sound driven self-assembly of biomolecules into nanoparticles by using high frequency ultrasound, as an emerging and innovative approach, is discussed in detail.