Stability during in vitro digestion of lactoferrin-loaded liposomes prepared from milk fat globule membrane-derived phospholipids

The improvement of tyrosol bioavailability by encapsulation into liposomes using pH-driven method

To improve the poor water solubility and oral bioavailability of tyrosol, novel tyrosol liposomes (Tyr-LPs) were prepared by pH-driven method. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) absorption spectra and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis indicated that Tyr-LPs were successfully encapsulated and tyrosol was in an amorphous state in liposomes. When tyrosol content in Tyr-LP was 1.33 mg/ml and the Tyr:LP (mass ratio) = 1:2, favorable dispersibility of Tyr-LP was exhibited, with an instability index of 0.049 ± 0.004, PDI of 0.274 ± 0.003, and the EE of 94.8 ± 2.5 %. In vivo pharmacokinetic studies showed that after oral administration of tyrosol or Tyr-LP (Tyr:LP = 1:2), concentration-versus-time curve (AUC0-720mins) and maximum concentration (Cmax) values of Tyr-LP was respectively 1.5-fold (P < 0.01) and 2.25-fold (P < 0.01) higher than tyrosol, which indicated that the oral bioavailability of tyrosol was effectively improved in Tyr-LPs. Our study thereby provides theoretical support for the application of Tyr-LP for optimal delivery of tryosol.

New insights into the destabilization of fat globules in ultra-instantaneous UHT milk induced by added plasmin: Molecular mechanisms and the effect of membrane structure on plasmin action

Residual plasmin activity in whole ultra-instantaneous UHT (UI-UHT) milk causes rapid fat rise during storage, seriously affecting consumers' purchase intentions. In this work, the molecular mechanisms underlying fat destabilization in whole UI-UHT milk by added plasmin were investigated based on the hydrolysis behavior of interfacial proteins. By using SDS-PAGE and peptidomic analysis, we found that the hydrolysis of interfacial proteins by plasmin led to a decrease in the amount and coverage of interfacial proteins and an increase in zeta-potential value, causing the flocculation and coalescence of fat globules. Moreover, the hydrolysis pattern varied in different categories of interfacial proteins by plasmin. In total, 125 peptides in all samples were identified. Plasmin tended to hydrolyze most major milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) proteins into protein fragments (>10 kDa) rather than peptides (<10 kDa). In contrast, peptides derived from caseins were more preferentially identified within a relatively short incubation time. It was the co-hydrolysis of caseins and some major MFGM proteins as anchors that destroyed the stability of MFGM. Furthermore, studies on the effect of trilayer membrane structure remaining at the interface on the hydrolysis rate of major MFGM proteins by plasmin revealed that ADPH and BTN were very sensitive to plasmin action, while PAS 7 was very resistant to plasmin action. Overall, membrane structure reduced the susceptibility of some major MFGM proteins to plasmin and provided protective effects. Therefore, this study provided important insights into the hydrolysis behavior of interfacial proteins in whole UI-UHT milk induced by plasmin.

Chitosan-coated soybean protein isolate/lecithin nanoparticles for enhancing the stability and bioaccessibility of phytosterol

BACKGROUND

Phytosterols (PS) have various beneficial effects on human health, especially the property of reducing blood cholesterol. However, the low solubility and bioaccessibility of PS have greatly limited their application in functional food ingredients.

RESULTS

To improve the bioaccessibility and stability of PS, chitosan-coated PS nanoparticles (CS-PNP) were successfully prepared by self-assembly. The properties of CS-PNP, including size, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency (EE) and loading amount (LA) were characterised. The optimisation of CS concentration (0.4 mg mL-1) and pH (3.5) resulted in the formation of CS-PNP with an EE of over 90% and a particle size of 187.7 nm. Due to the special properties of CS chitosan, the interaction between CS and soybean protein isolate (SPI)/lecithin (SL) led to the formation of a soluble complex. CS-PNP exhibited good stability to temperature variations but was more sensitive to salt ions. During in vitro digestion, CS efficiently maintained the stability of nanoparticles against the hydrolysis of SPI by pepsin under acidic conditions. However, these nanoparticles tended to aggregate in a neutral intestinal environment. After 3 h of in vitro digestion, the bioaccessibility of PS increased from 18.2% of free PS to 63.5% of CS-PNP.

CONCLUSION

Overall, these results highlight the potential of chitosan-coated nanoparticles as effective carriers for the oral administration of PS. This multilayer construction may serve as a promising for applications in food products as delivery vehicles for nutraceuticals. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

A novel approach to insulin delivery via oral route: Milk fat globule membrane derived liposomes as a delivery vehicle

The current research endeavor seeks to unlock the potential of orally administered insulin formulations by utilizing liposomes derived from the fat globule membrane (MFGM) of camel milk as carriers for insulin. This pursuit emerges as a result of the recognized limitations of subcutaneous insulin therapy. The liposomes were meticulously created using the thin film hydration method, followed by comprehensive chemical and morphological analyses. Additionally, comprehensive safety assessments were carried out in vitro and in vivo, revealing significant findings. The Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectrum confirmed the presence of insulin within the liposomes, demonstrating changes in their size and charge. The in vitro cytotoxicity analysis, performed on HEK-293 cell lines through the MTT assay, yielded results indicating a cell viability of over 90%. In the in vivo investigation, diabetic rats induced by STZ were utilized to evaluate the effects of the liposomes, revealing substantial reductions in blood glucose levels, bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), albumin, and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels. Hepatic histopathological assessments showed signs of recovery across all treatment groups, with no observable microscopic changes in renal tissue. This investigation highlights the significant hypoglycemic effects observed in insulin-loaded liposomes derived from MFGM obtained from camel milk when administered orally.

Self-Assembled Nanocarrier Delivery Systems for Bioactive Compounds

Although bioactive compounds (BCs) have many important functions, their applications are greatly limited due to their own defects. The development of nanocarriers (NCs) technology has gradually overcome the defects of BCs. NCs are equally important as BCs to some extent. Self-assembly (SA) methods to build NCs have many advantages than chemical methods, and SA has significant impact on the structure and function of NCs. However, the relationship among SA mechanism, structure, and function has not been given enough attention. Therefore, from the perspective of bottom-up building mechanism, the concept of SA-structure-function of NCs is emphasized to promote the development of SA-based NCs. First, the conditions and forces for occurring SA are introduced, and then the SA basis and molecular mechanism of protein, polysaccharide, and lipid are summarized. Then, varieties of the structures formed based on SA are introduced in detail. Finally, facing the defects of BCs and how to be well solved by NCs are also elaborated. This review attempts to describe the great significance of constructing artificial NCs to deliver BCs from the aspects of SA-structure-function, so as to promote the development of SA-based NCs and the wide application of BCs.

Advances in separation and identification of biologically important milk proteins and peptides

Milk is a rich source of biologically important proteins and peptides. In addition, milk contains a variety of extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes, that carry their own proteome cargo. EVs are essential for cell-cell communication and modulation of biological processes. They act as nature carriers of bioactive proteins/peptides in targeted delivery during various physiological and pathological conditions. Identification of the proteins and protein-derived peptides in milk and EVs and recognition of their biological activities and functions had a tremendous impact on food industry, medicine research, and clinical applications. Advanced separation methods, mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteomic approaches and innovative biostatistical procedures allowed for characterization of milk protein isoforms, genetic/splice variants, posttranslational modifications and their key roles, and contributed to novel discoveries. This review article discusses recently published developments in separation and identification of bioactive proteins/peptides from milk and milk EVs, including MS-based proteomic approaches.

Liposomes for drug delivery: review of vesicular composition, factors affecting drug release and drug loading in liposomes

Liposomes are considered among the most versatile and advanced nanoparticle delivery systems used to target drugs to specific cells and tissues. Structurally, liposomes are sphere-like vesicles of phospholipid molecules that are surrounded by equal number of aqueous compartments. The spherical shell encapsulates an aqueous interior which contains substances such as peptides and proteins, hormones, enzymes, antibiotics, antifungal and anticancer agents. This structural property of liposomes makes it an important nano-carrier for drug delivery. Extrusion is one of the most frequently used technique for preparing monodisperse uni-lamellar liposomes as the technique is used to control vesicle size. The process involves passage of lipid suspension through polycarbonate membrane with a fixed pore size to produce vesicles with a diameter near the pore size of the membrane used in preparing them. An advantage of this technique is that there is no need to remove the organic solvent or detergent from the final preparation. This review focuses on composition of liposome formulation with special emphasis on factors affecting drug release and drug-loading.

Coating with tripolyphosphate-crosslinked chitosan as a novel approach for enhanced stability of emulsomes following oral administration: Rutin as a model drug with improved anti-hyperlipidemic effect in rats

The aim of the current study is to preserve the emulsomal vesicles against the harsh condition of gastrointestinal tract (GIT), after oral administration, employing tripolyphosphate (TPP)-crosslinked chitosan as a protective coating layer. Rutin was used as a model drug with evaluation of anti-hyperlipidemic activity in rats. The rutin loaded unmodified emulsomes were prepared using tripalmitin and soybean phosphatidylcholine (SPC), by thin film method. Drug loading for the prepared formulations ranged between 6.80 and 15.50 %. The selected formulation (RT-Emuls-6) comprised tripalmitin and SPC, molar ratio 1:1, and exhibited particle size (PS) and zeta potential (ZP) of 150.40 nm and -35.35 mV, respectively. RT-Emuls-6 was then modified by coating with either solely chitosan (RT-Emuls-6-Ch) or TPP-crosslinked chitosan (RT-Emuls-6-Ch-TPP-1). The latter exhibited PS and ZP values of 269.60 nm and 37.17 mV, respectively. Transmission electron microscopy of RT-Emuls-6-Ch-TPP-1 showed a dense pale greyish layer of a coating layer of chitosan crosslinked with TPP surrounding SPC bilayers. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis along with X-ray powder diffraction confirmed cross-linking between chitosan and TPP. Stability study in the simulated GIT fluids revealed that the order of rutin retained percentage was RT-Emuls-6-Ch-TPP-1 > RT-Emuls-6-Ch > RT-Emuls-6 (80.02, 50.66 and 44.41 %, respectively for simulated gastric fluid and 63.50, 55.66 and 24.00 %, respectively for simulated intestinal fluid, after 2 h incubation). Anti-hyperlipidemic activity of rutin loaded emulsomes was evaluated, after oral administration, in a high fat diet-induced hyperlipidemia in rats. The order of activity was as follows: RT-Emuls-6-Ch-TPP-1 > RT-Emuls-6-Ch > RT-Emuls-6 > free rutin. These findings revealed the potential of TPP-crosslinked chitosan as a protective coating layer for enhancing the stability of emulsomes against the harsh condition of GIT. RT-Emuls-6-Ch-TPP-1 had a potent anti-hyperlipidemic activity via regulation of lipids, oxidative stress, irisin and uncoupling protein 1.

Therapeutic uses and applications of bovine lactoferrin in aquatic animal medicine: an overview

Aquaculture is an important food sector throughout the globe because of its importance in ensuring the availability of nutritious and safe food for human beings. In recent years, this sector has been challenged with several obstacles especially the emergence of infectious disease outbreaks. Various treatment and control aspects, including antibiotics, antiseptics, and other anti-microbial agents, have been used to treat farmed fish and shrimp against diseases. Nonetheless, these medications have been prohibited and banned in many countries because of the development of antimicrobial-resistant bacterial strains, the accumulation of residues in the flesh of farmed fish and shrimp, and their environmental threats to aquatic ecosystems. Therefore, scientists and researchers have concentrated their research on finding natural and safe products to control disease outbreaks. From these natural products, bovine lactoferrin can be utilized as a functional feed supplement. Bovine lactoferrin is a multi-functional glycoprotein applied in various industries, like food preservation, and numerous medications, due to its non-toxic and ecological features. Recent research has proposed multiple advantages and benefits of using bovine lactoferrin in aquaculture. Reports showed its potential ability to enhance growth, reduce mortalities, regulate iron metabolism, decrease disease outbreaks, stimulate the antioxidant defense system, and recuperate the overall health conditions of the treated fish and shrimp. Besides, bovine lactoferrin can be considered as a safe antibiotic alternative and a unique therapeutic agent to decrease the negative impacts of infectious diseases. These features can be attributed to its well-known antibacterial, anti-parasitic, anti-inflammatory, immunostimulatory, and antioxidant capabilities. This literature review will highlight the implications of bovine lactoferrin in aquaculture, particularly highlighting its therapeutic features and ability to promote immunological defensive pathways in fish. The information included in this article would be valuable for further research studies to improve aquaculture's sustainability and the functionality of aquafeeds.

Milk fat globule membrane: composition, production and its potential as encapsulant for bioactives and probiotics

Milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) is a complex trilayer structure present in mammalian milk and is mainly composed of phospholipids and proteins (>90%). Many studies revealed MFGM has positive effects on the immune system, brain development, and cognitive function of infants. Probiotics are live microorganisms that have been found to improve mental health and insulin sensitivity, regulate immunity, and prevent allergies. Probiotics are unstable and prone to degradation by environmental, processing, and storage conditions. In this review, the processes used for encapsulation of probiotics particularly the potential of MFGM and its constituents as encapsulating materials for probiotics are described. This study analyzes the importance of MFGM in encapsulating bioactive substances and emphasizes the interaction with probiotics and the gut as well as its resistance to adverse environmental factors in the digestive system when used as a probiotic embedding material. MFGM can enhance the gastric acid resistance and bile resistance of probiotics, mainly manifested in the survival rate of probiotics. Due to the role of digestion, MFGM-coated probiotics can be released in the intestine, and due to the biocompatibility of the membrane, it can promote the binding of probiotics to intestinal epithelial cells, and promote the colonization of some probiotics in the intestine.

A nano-Liposomal formulation potentiates antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and fibrinolytic activities of Allolobophora caliginosa coelomic fluid: formulation and characterization

BACKGROUND

Coelomic fluid, a pharmacologically active compound in earthworms, exhibits a range of biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer. However, the biological activities exerted by the coelomic fluid can be restrained by its low bioavailability and stability. Liposomes are progressively utilized as an entrapment system for natural bioactive compounds with poor bioavailability and stability, which could be appropriate for coelomic fluid. Thus, the present study was designed to fabricate, characterize, and evaluate the stability of liposomal formulation for Allolobophora caliginosa coelomic fluid (ACCF) as a natural antioxidant compound.

METHODS

The ACCF-liposomes were developed with a subsequent characterization of their physicochemical attributes. The physical stability, ACCF release behavior, and gastrointestinal stability were evaluated in vitro. The biological activities of ACCF and its liposomal formulation were also determined.

RESULTS

The liposomal formulation of ACCF had a steady characteristic absorption band at 201 nm and a transmittance of 99.20 ± 0.10%. Its average hydrodynamic particle size was 98 nm, with a PDI of 0.29 ± 0.04 and a negative zeta potential (-38.66 ± 0.33mV). TEM further confirmed the formation of vesicular, spherical nano-liposomes with unilamellar configuration. Additionally, a remarkable entrapment efficiency percent (77.58 ± 0.82%) with a permeability rate equal to 3.20 ± 0.31% and a high retention rate (54.16 ± 2.20%) for ACCF-liposomes were observed. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) result demonstrated that ACCF successfully entrapped inside liposomes. The ACCF-liposomes exhibited a slow and controlled ACCF release in vitro. Regarding stability studies, the liposomal formulation enhanced the stability of ACCF during storage and at different pH. Furthermore, ACCF-liposomes are highly stable in intestinal digestion conditions comparable to gastric digestion. The current study disclosed that liposomal formulation potentiates the biological activities of ACCF, especially antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and thrombolytic activities.

CONCLUSION

These promising results offer a novel approach to increasing the bioaccessibility of ACCF, which may be crucial for the development of pharmaceuticals and nutraceutical-enriched functional foods.

Co-Encapsulation of Curcumin and α-Tocopherol in Bicosome Systems: Physicochemical Properties and Biological Activity

A novel co-encapsulation system called bicosomes (bicelles within liposomes) has been developed to overcome the limitations associated with the topical application of curcumin (cur) and α-tocopherol (α-toc). The physicochemical properties and biological activity in vitro of bicosome systems were evaluated. Bicelles were prepared with DPPC, DHPC, cur, and α-toc (cur/α-toc-bicelles). Liposomal vesicles loading cur/α-toc-bicelles were prepared with Lipoid P-100 and cholesterol-forming cur/α-toc-bicosomes. Three cur/α-toc-bicosomes were evaluated using different total lipid percentages (12, 16, and 20% w/v). The results indicated that formulations manage to solubilize cur and α-toc in homogeneous bicelles < 20 nm, while the bicosomes reaches 303-420 nm depending on the total lipid percentage in the systems. Bicosomes demonstrated high-encapsulation efficiency (EE) for cur (56-77%) and α-toc (51-65%). The loading capacity (LC) for both antioxidant compounds was 52-67%. In addition, cur/α-toc-bicosomes decreased the lipid oxidation by 52% and increased the antioxidant activity by 60% compared to unloaded bicosomes. The cell viability of these cur/α-toc-bicosomes was >85% in fibroblasts (3T3L1/CL-173™) and ≥65% in keratinocytes (Ha-CaT) and proved to be hematologically compatible. The cur/α-toc-bicelles and cur/α-toc-bicosomes inhibited the growth of C. albicans in a range between 33 and 76%. Our results propose bicosome systems as a novel carrier able to co-encapsulate, solubilize, protect, and improve the delivery performance of antioxidant molecules. The relevance of these findings is based on the synergistic antioxidant effect of its components, its biocompatibility, and its efficacy for dermal tissue treatment damaged by oxidative stress or by the presence of C. albicans. However, further studies are needed to assess the efficacy and safety of cur/α-toc bicosomes in vitro and in vivo.

Preparation, Characterization and ex vivo Skin Permeability Evaluation of Type I Collagen-Loaded Liposomes

Purpose

In the present study, we prepared collagen liposomes with the addition of polyol, which is expected to not only increase the solubility of collagen but also improve skin penetration.

Methods

Collagen liposomes were prepared by the film dispersion method, and their characteristics, integrity and biosafety were evaluated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV-VIS spectroscopy, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The transdermal absorption of collagen and collagen liposomes were tested by an ex vivo horizontal Valia-Chien diffusion cell system.

Results

We first demonstrated that collagen extracted from bovine Achilles tendon was type I collagen. The results of DLS measurement and TEM observation showed that the collagen liposomes were spherical in shape with average diameter (75.34±0.93 nm) and maintained high stability at low temperature (4°C) for at least 42 days without toxicity. The encapsulation rate of collagen liposomes was 57.80 ± 0.51%, and SDS-PAGE analysis showed that collagen was intact in liposomes. Finally, permeability studies indicated that the collagen-loaded liposomes more easily penetrated the skin compared to collagen itself.

Conclusion

This study proposed a new method to improve the bioavailability and permeability of bovine type I collagen, which improves the applicability of collagen in biomedicine, cosmeceuticals and pharmaceutical industries.

Lactoferrin as a Component of Pharmaceutical Preparations: An Experimental Focus

Lactoferrin is an 80 kDa monomeric glycoprotein that exhibits multitask activities. Lactoferrin properties are of interest in the pharmaceutical field for the design of products with therapeutic potential, including nanoparticles and liposomes, among many others. In antimicrobial preparations, lactoferrin has been included either as a main bioactive component or as an enhancer of the activity and potency of first-line antibiotics. In some proposals based on nanoparticles, lactoferrin has been included in delivery systems to transport and protect drugs from enzymatic degradation in the intestine, favoring the bioavailability for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease and colon cancer. Moreover, nanoparticles loaded with lactoferrin have been formulated as delivery systems to transport drugs for neurodegenerative diseases, which cannot cross the blood-brain barrier to enter the central nervous system. This manuscript is focused on pharmaceutical products either containing lactoferrin as the bioactive component or formulated with lactoferrin as the carrier considering its interaction with receptors expressed in tissues as targets of drugs delivered via parenteral or mucosal administration. We hope that this manuscript provides insights about the therapeutic possibilities of pharmaceutical Lf preparations with a sustainable approach that contributes to decreasing the resistance of antimicrobials and enhancing the bioavailability of first-line drugs for intestinal chronic inflammation and neurodegenerative diseases.

[Fibrinolysis Enhancing Activity of Roasted Barley Extract (Mugicha) and Its Simulated Digestate]

Barley tea (Mugicha), commonly consumed in Japan and other East Asian countries, is prepared by decocting roasted barley (Hordeum vulgare) seed with hot or cold water. Although barley tea is commonly consumed, studies on its health benefits are limited, especially regarding its bioactivity against thrombosis. During the evaluation of functional foods and drinks, barley tea extract was found to exhibit potential fibrinolysis-enhancing activity induced by urokinase. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the application of barley tea as a functional food and conduct a preliminary investigation to reveal the effects of barley tea on thrombosis. Hot water extract of roasted barley was treated with pancreatin and separated via various techniques using macroporous resin and silica gel and tangential flow filtration with an ultra-filtration membrane. The low-molecular-weight fraction of the roasted barley tea extract was found to possess activity. We further purified the extract and found that the activity of each fraction decreased. Thus, the different fractions of the roasted barley extract may not exhibit the activity individually, instead additive or synergistic effects of multiple components may occur. The results suggest the potential use of barley extract as a functional food to prevent thrombosis.

Trends in Drug Delivery Systems for Natural Bioactive Molecules to Treat Health Disorders: The Importance of Nano-Liposomes

Drug delivery systems are believed to increase pharmaceutical efficacy and the therapeutic index by protecting and stabilizing bioactive molecules, such as protein and peptides, against body fluids' enzymes and/or unsuitable physicochemical conditions while preserving the surrounding healthy tissues from toxicity. Liposomes are biocompatible and biodegradable and do not cause immunogenicity following intravenous or topical administration. Still, their most important characteristic is the ability to load any drug or complex molecule uncommitted to its hydrophobic or hydrophilic character. Selecting lipid components, ratios and thermo-sensitivity is critical to achieve a suitable nano-liposomal formulation. Nano-liposomal surfaces can be tailored to interact successfully with target cells, avoiding undesirable associations with plasma proteins and enhancing their half-life in the bloodstream. Macropinocytosis-dynamin-independent, cell-membrane-cholesterol-dependent processes, clathrin, and caveolae-independent mechanisms are involved in liposome internalization and trafficking within target cells to deliver the loaded drugs to modulate cell function. A successful translation from animal studies to clinical trials is still an important challenge surrounding the approval of new nano-liposomal drugs that have been the focus of investigations. Precision medicine based on the design of functionalized nano-delivery systems bearing highly specific molecules to drive therapies is a promising strategy to treat degenerative diseases.

Nanoparticular and other carriers to deliver lactoferrin for antimicrobial, antibiofilm and bone-regenerating effects: a review

Bone and joint infections are a rare but serious problem worldwide. Lactoferrin’s antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity coupled with its bone-regenerating effects may make it suitable for improving bone and joint infection treatment. However, free lactoferrin (LF) has highly variable oral bioavailability in humans due to potential for degradation in the stomach and small intestine. It also has a short half-life in blood plasma. Therefore, encapsulating LF in nanocarriers may slow degradation in the gastrointestinal tract and enhance LF absorption, stability, permeability and oral bioavailability. This review will summarize the literature on the encapsulation of LF into liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, polymeric micro and nanoparticles and hydroxyapatite nanocrystals. The fabrication, characterization, advantages, disadvantages and applications of each system will be discussed and compared.

RK, R. AT, P. GM, S. P, John A. Bilosomes as a Potential Carrier to Enhance Cognitive Effects of Bacopa monnieri Extract on Oral Administration

The Indian system of medicine, Ayurveda employs Bacopa monnieri extract (BME) for memory enhancement. This study attempts to prepare and test a more potent formulation by incorporating BME in nanovesicles. BME-loaded liposomes and bilosomes (bile salt-stabilized liposomes) were formulated using soy phosphatidylcholine. Liposomes and bilosomes had homogeneous size distribution and an average size of 285.7 nm and 84 nm, respectively, with satisfactory zeta potential. Spherical multilamellar bilosomes and unilamellar liposomes were observed under transmission electron microscope (TEM), with BME entrapment efficiency of 85% and 45%, respectively. During a 72 h interval, bilosomes and liposomes released 78% and 65% of the loaded BME, exhibiting a biphasic release, following the Higuchi model diffusion. Both liposomes and bilosomes were stable in simulated gastric and intestinal fluids. When tested on dementia-induced Swiss albino mouse models using the Y-maze apparatus, the bilosome-treated group showed significant cognition enhancement activity than those treated with liposomal vesicles. The better pharmacological effect shown by bilosomes may be attributed to better bioavailability, possibly augmented by higher entrapment efficiency, and improved vesicle integrity afforded by bile salts. Likewise, bilosomes were more stable than liposomes in simulated gastric and intestinal fluids. Taken together, innovative formulation techniques hold substantial promise for enhancing the ethnopharmacological claims of BME.

Combined use of lactoferrin and vitamin D as a preventive and therapeutic supplement for SARS-CoV-2 infection: Current evidence

Lactoferrin is a multifunctional protein that exhibits anti-inflammatory, immune regulating and anti-infective properties. One of its receptor sites is located on severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. The binding of lactoferrin with heparin sulfate proteoglycans may prevent the first contact between the virus and host cells, thus preventing subsequent infection. Given that lactoferrin may act as a natural mucosal barrier, an intranasal treatment together with its oral intake can be hypothesized to prevent the spread, infection and inflammation caused by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Moreover, the literature reports that vitamin D plays an essential role in promoting immune response. With its anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory properties, vitamin D is critical for activating the immune system’s defenses, improving immune cell function. Different studies also demonstrate that lactoferrin is a potential activator of the vitamin D receptor. In this sense, the combined use of lactoferrin (through an association of oral intake and a nasal spray formulation) and vitamin D could represent a valuable therapy for COVID-19 treatment and prevention. However, further randomized clinical trials are needed before recommending/prescribing them.

Glucose-lowering effects of orally administered superoxide dismutase in type 2 diabetic model rats

Superoxide dismutase (SOD) is an enzyme found in most food sources, might be a candidate to reduce oxidative damage to intestinal barrier, thereby ameliorating the vicious circle between hyperglycemia and the oxidative damage. Here we report the oral administration of SOD, liposome-embedded SOD (L-SOD), and SOD hydrolysate to type 2 diabetic model rats to confirm this hypothesis. Oxidative damage severity in model rat intestine was indicated by malondialdehyde level, GSSG/GSH ratio, and antioxidant enzyme activity. The damage was significantly repaired by L-SOD. Furthermore, blood glucose and related indexes correlated well not only with oxidative damage results but also with indexes indicating physical intestinal damage such as colon density, H&E staining, immunohistochemical analysis of the tight junction proteins occludin and ZO-1 in the colon, as well as lipopolysaccharide and related inflammatory cytokine levels. The order of the magnitude of the effects of these SOD preparations was L-SOD > SOD > SOD hydrolysate. These data indicate that orally administered SOD can exhibit glucose-lowering effect via targeting the intestine of diabetic rats and systemic lipopolysaccharide influx.

Effects of free and nano encapsulated bovine lactoferrin on the viability and acid production by Streptococcus mutans biofilms

Tooth decay is one of the most common diseases that humans face during their lifetime. Streptococcus mutans is one of the most critical factors of early tooth decay. These bacteria may produce biofilms in the mouth, which are more resistant to antimicrobial agents. S. mutans may also demineralize tooth enamel by producing lactic acid. In this study, the effect of nanoliposomes containing lactoferrin at three different concentrations (1.5, 3, and 6 mg ml^-1 l) on the biofilm formed by S. mutans was investigated. Nanoliposomes were prepared using the thin-layer hydration method. An active attachment model (AAA) was used to evaluate biofilm and lactic acid production. The results showed that nano encapsulated lactoferrin could reduce CFU of biofilm more effectively than free lactoferrin. Lactoferrin-containing nanoliposomes also significantly reduced lactic acid production by S. mutans. Therefore, nano encapsulated lactoferrin may be used along with other dental caries control methods to increase anti caries efficacy.

The Lactoferrin Phenomenon-A Miracle Molecule

Numerous harmful factors that affect the human body from birth to old age cause many disturbances, e.g., in the structure of the genome, inducing cell apoptosis and their degeneration, which leads to the development of many diseases, including cancer. Among the factors leading to pathological processes, microbes, viruses, gene dysregulation and immune system disorders have been described. The function of a protective agent may be played by lactoferrin as a “miracle molecule”, an endogenous protein with a number of favorable antimicrobial, antiviral, antioxidant, immunostimulatory and binding DNA properties. The purpose of this article is to present the broad spectrum of properties and the role that lactoferrin plays in protecting human cells at all stages of life.

Functional Significance of Different Milk Constituents in Modulating the Gut Microbiome and Infant Health

Human milk, the gold standard for optimal nourishment, controls the microbial composition of infants by either enhancing or limiting bacterial growth. The milk fat globule membrane has gained interest in gut-related functions and cognitive development. The membrane proteins can directly interact with probiotic bacteria, influencing their survival and adhesion through gastrointestinal transit, whereas membrane phospholipids increase the residence time of probiotic bacteria in the gut. The commensal bacteria in milk act as the initial inoculum in building up the gut colonization of an infant, whereas oligosaccharides promote proliferation of beneficial microorganisms. Interestingly, milk extracellular vesicles are also involved in influencing the microbiota composition but are not well-explored. This review highlights the contribution of different milk components in modulating the infant gut microbiota, particularly the fat globule membrane, and the complex interplay between host- and brain-gut microbiota signaling affecting infant and adult health positively.

Controlled Nutrient Delivery through a pH-Responsive Wood Vehicle

To lower the risk of disease and improve health, many nutrients benefit from intestinal-targeted delivery. Here, we present a nutrient-delivery system based on a pH-responsive "wood scroll", in which nutrients are stored, protected, and controllably released through the rolled structure and natural microchannels of a flexible wood substrate, thus ensuring higher bioactivity as well as prolonged steady release of the nutrient load to the intestine. We loaded the wood's natural microchannels with probiotics as a proof-of-concept demonstration. The probiotic-loaded wood scrolls can survive the simulated conditions of the stomach with a high survival rate (95.40%) and exhibit prolonged release (8 h) of the probiotic load at a constant release rate (4.17 × 10⁸ CFUs/h) in the simulated conditions of the intestine. Moreover, by modifying the macroscopic geometry and microstructures of the wood scrolls, both the nutrient loading and release behaviors can be tuned over a wide range for customized or personalized nutrient management. The wood scrolls can also deliver other types of nutrients, as we demonstrate for tea polyphenols and rapeseed oil. This wood scroll design illustrates a promising structurally controlled strategy for the delivery of enteric nutrients using readily available, low-cost, and biocompatible biomass materials that have a naturally porous structure for nutrient storage, protection, and controlled release.

Preparation, characterization and stability of nanoliposomes loaded with peptides from defatted walnut (Juglans regia L.) meal

This study aimed to encapsulate walnut peptides with different molecular weights (crude peptides, 5-10 kDa and < 5 kDa) within nanoliposomes. The peptides with molecular weight (MW) of 5-10 kDa (F2) was chosen as a representative sample to indicate the formation mechanism of nanoliposomes using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The storage and simulated digestion experiment were carried out to evaluate the protective effect of nanoliposomes loading walnut peptides. Our results indicated that the amino acid composition was affected by peptide MW, and F2 exhibited the highest content of hydrophobic amino acids content. The MW of peptides also affected the distribution of the peptide of nanoliposomes, resulting in changes in particle size, ζ-potential, and encapsulation efficiency. The SEM exhibited that a high concentration of nanoliposomes might result in phospholipid fusion and larger particle diameters. The TEM showed individual nanoliposomes had spherical, smooth and full vesicle structures. The nanoliposomes could improve the stability of walnut peptides during storage. The maximum peptides retention after in vitro digestion was 61.6%, indicating a better sustained release in gastric digestion. The present study suggested that nanoliposomes can offer adequate protection to the walnut peptides during storage and digestion.

Water-Dispersible Phytosterol Nanoparticles: Preparation, Characterization, and in vitro Digestion

For improving solubility and bioaccessibility of phytosterols (PS), phytosterol nanoparticles (PNPs) were prepared by emulsification–evaporation combined high-pressure homogenization method. The organic phase was formed with the dissolved PS and soybean lecithin (SL) in anhydrous ethanol, then mixed with soy protein isolate (SPI) solution, and homogenized into nanoparticles, followed by the evaporation of ethanol. The optimum fabrication conditions were determined as PS (1%, w/v): SL of 1:4, SPI content of 0.75% (w/v), and ethanol volume of 16 ml. PNPs were characterized to have average particle size 93.35 nm, polydispersity index (PDI) 0.179, zeta potential −29.3 mV, and encapsulation efficiency (EE) 97.3%. The impact of temperature, pH, and ionic strength on the stability of fabricated PNPs was determined. After 3-h in vitro digestion, the bioaccessibility of PS in nanoparticles reached 70.8%, significantly higher than the 18.2% of raw PS. Upon freeze-drying, the particle size of PNPs increased to 199.1 nm, resulting in a bimodal distribution. The solubility of PS in water could reach up to 2.122 mg/ml, ~155 times higher than that of raw PS. Therefore, this study contributes to the development of functional PS-food ingredients.

Interaction of DPPC liposomes with cholesterol and food protein during in vitro digestion using Dynamic Light Scattering and FTIR spectroscopy analysis

The influence of cholesterol (CHO), bovine serum albumin (BSA) and lactoferrin (LF), on the phase transition temperature (T_m) and structure of DPPC liposomes during in vitro digestion was investigated using Dynamic Laser Scattering (DLS) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy technologies (FTIR). CHO enhanced bilayers thickness and acyl chain order, especially in DPPC:CHO of 6:1, with the average size increase to 1.77 ± 0.20 μm and broaden of phase transition (T_m 45.8 °C). Protein critically impacted on the liposomal structure through formation of hydrogen bonds between in DPPC and protein. Liposomal size and T_m were significantly changed after simulated gastric digestion, whereas the pancreatic incubation can broaden transition phase and weaken functional groups of liposomes. Our data provided a better understanding on structure changes of CHO-containing membrane and protein addition by revealing T_m and chemical bonds details, and added to current knowledge for evaluating the different component on liposomal digestibility in food area.

Bioactives in bovine milk: chemistry, technology, and applications

The significance of dairy in human health and nutrition is gaining significant momentum as consumers continue to desire wholesome, nutritious foods to fulfill their health and wellness needs. Bovine milk not only consists of all the essential nutrients required for growth and development, it also provides a broad range of bioactive components that play an important role in managing human homeostasis and immune function. In recent years, milk bioactives, including α-lactalbumin, lactoferrin, glycomacropeptide, milk fat globule membrane, and milk oligosaccharides, have been intensively studied because of their unique bioactivity and functionality. Challenges for the application of these bioactive components in food and pharmaceutical formulations are associated with their isolation and purification on an industrial scale and also with their physical and chemical instability during processing, storage, and digestion. These challenges can be overcome by advanced separation techniques and sophisticated nano- or micro-encapsulation technologies. Current knowledge about the chemistry, separation, and encapsulation technology of major bioactives derived from bovine milk and their application in the food industry is reviewed here.

Lactoferrin as Antiviral Treatment in COVID-19 Management: Preliminary Evidence

Lactoferrin (Lf), a multifunctional cationic glycoprotein synthesized by exocrine glands and neutrophils, possesses an in vitro antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2. Thus, we conducted an in vivo preliminary study to investigate the antiviral effect of oral and intranasal liposomal bovine Lf (bLf) in asymptomatic and mild-to-moderate COVID-19 patients. From April 2020 to June 2020, a total of 92 mild-to-moderate (67/92) and asymptomatic (25/92) COVID-19 patients were recruited and divided into three groups. Thirty-two patients (14 hospitalized and 18 in home-based isolation) received only oral and intranasal liposomal bLf; 32 hospitalized patients were treated only with standard of care (SOC) treatment; and 28, in home-based isolation, did not take any medication. Furthermore, 32 COVID-19 negative, untreated, healthy subjects were added for ancillary analysis. Liposomal bLf-treated COVID-19 patients obtained an earlier and significant (p < 0.0001) SARS-CoV-2 RNA negative conversion compared to the SOC-treated and untreated COVID-19 patients (14.25 vs. 27.13 vs. 32.61 days, respectively). Liposomal bLf-treated COVID-19 patients showed fast clinical symptoms recovery compared to the SOC-treated COVID-19 patients. In bLf-treated patients, a significant decrease in serum ferritin, IL-6, and D-dimers levels was observed. No adverse events were reported. These observations led us to speculate a potential role of bLf in the management of mild-to-moderate and asymptomatic COVID-19 patients.

Extracellular Vesicles in Human Milk

Milk supports the growth and development of infants. An increasing number of mostly recent studies have demonstrated that milk contains a hitherto undescribed component called extracellular vesicles (EVs). This presents questions regarding why milk contains EVs and what their function is. Recently, we showed that EVs in human milk expose tissue factor, the protein that triggers coagulation or blood clotting, and that milk-derived EVs promote coagulation. Because bovine milk, which also contains EVs, completely lacks this coagulant activity, important differences are present in the biological functions of human milk-derived EVs between species. In this review, we will summarize the current knowledge regarding the presence and biochemical composition of milk EVs, their function(s) and potential clinical applications such as in probiotics, and the unique problems that milk EVs encounter in vivo, including survival of the gastrointestinal conditions encountered in the newborn. The main focus of this review will be human milk-derived EVs, but when available, we will also include information regarding non-human milk for comparison.

Environmental and Sustainability Analysis of a Supercritical Carbon Dioxide-Assisted Process for Pharmaceutical Applications

Drug delivery systems (DDS) are artificial devices employed to enhance drug bioavailability during administration to a human body. Among DDS, liposomes are spherical vesicles made of an aqueous core surrounded by phospholipids. Conventional production methods are characterized by several drawbacks; therefore, Supercritical assisted Liposome formation (SuperLip) has been developed to overcome these problems. Considering that the use of high pressures involves high energy cost, in this paper, sustainability indicators were calculated to quantitatively evaluate the emissions related to the attainment of liposomes containing daunorubicin (a model antibiotic drug) using the SuperLip process. The indicators were depicted using a spider diagram to raise the actual weaknesses of this technique; some variations were proposed in the process layout to solve the critical issues. According to the literature, many studies related to the pharmaceutical industry are expressed in terms of solid, liquid waste, and toxic emissions; however, liposomes have never explicitly been considered for an analysis of environmental sustainability.

Ambulatory COVID-19 Patients Treated with Lactoferrin as a Supplementary Antiviral Agent: A Preliminary Study

SARS-CoV-2, an enveloped, single-stranded RNA virus causing COVID-19, exerts morbidity and mortality especially in elderly, obese individuals and those suffering from chronic conditions. In addition to the availability of vaccines and the limited efficacy of the first dose of vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 variants, there is an urgent requirement for the discovery and development of supplementary antiviral agents. Lactoferrin (Lf), a pleiotropic cationic glycoprotein of innate immunity, has been proposed as a safe treatment combined with other therapies in COVID-19 patients. Here, we present a small retrospective study on asymptomatic, paucisymptomatic, and moderate symptomatic COVID-19 Lf-treated versus Lf-untreated patients. The time required to achieve SARS-CoV-2 RNA negativization in Lf-treated patients (n = 82) was significantly lower (p < 0.001) compared to that observed in Lf-untreated ones (n = 39) (15 versus 24 days). A link among reduction in symptoms, age, and Lf treatment was found. The Lf antiviral activity could be explained through the interaction with SARS-CoV-2 spike, the binding with heparan sulfate proteoglycans of cells, and the anti-inflammatory activity associated with the restoration of iron homeostasis disorders, which favor viral infection/replication. Lf could be an important supplementary treatment in counteracting SARS-CoV-2 infection, as it is also safe and well-tolerated by all treated patients.

Characterization of milk and soy phospholipid liposomes and inflammation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes

Milk phospholipids (PL) are valuable dairy components that appear to impart human health benefits, including improved cognitive function in infants and adults. The commercial food industry uses primarily plant-based sources of PL, such as soy lecithin. However, it remains unclear whether different compositions of PL from different dietary sources, such as milk, convey the same benefits. We hypothesized that PL derived from bovine milk or soy have differing physiological effects in terms of inflammation due to their differences in composition. The objectives of this study were to characterize milk and soy liposomes by their physicochemical properties and composition and to evaluate their effects in vitro by means of inflammatory gene expression analyses. Milk and soy phospholipid large unilamellar vesicles (MPL-LUV and SPL-LUV, respectively) prepared using thin-film hydration coupled with extrusion were similar in terms of structure, size, and stability; however, they differed significantly in composition. The 3T3-L1 adipocytes were selected for this work because adipocytes are the main site of uptake, synthesis, modification, and breakdown of lipids and are important inflammatory mediators in mammalian systems. In this work, these cells exposed to both liposome varieties showed high biocompatibility and low cytotoxicity up to concentrations of 0.5 mg/mL as measured by colorimetric MTT and lactate dehydrogenase assays. Furthermore, SPL-LUV showed trends toward stimulating inflammation compared with MPL-LUV as measured by expression of 2 proinflammatory cytokines, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and IL-6. Expression of MCP-1 significantly increased 1.82-fold relative to the control upon SPL-LUV treatment, with similar trends for IL-6 (increased 1.59-fold). The MPL-LUV showed relatively no change in cytokine expression. The results obtained in this work suggest that the methodology used to prepare LUV and the composition and proportion of milk PL are important in measuring cell physiology changes and inflammatory status in mammalian cells.

Nanoliposomes for encapsulation and calcium delivery of egg white peptide-calcium complex

Nanoliposomes and crude liposomes loaded with egg white peptide-calcium complex (EWP-Ca) were fabricated by thin-film dispersion with or without dynamic high-pressure microfluidization. Their physiochemical properties, in vitro stability, and calcium release profiles were investigated in this study. Results showed that the EWP-Ca-loaded nanoliposomes exhibited spherical structures with a lower particle size and polydispersity index as well as a higher thermal stability as compared to the corresponding crude liposomes. Further investigations revealed that EWP-Ca was embedded into the liposomes mainly through hydrogen bonding and present in an amorphous form within the liposomes. Additionally, the EWP-Ca-loaded nanoliposomes effectively slowed the release of calcium in gastric digestion, allowing more soluble calcium to enter the intestinal tract; in the subsequent intestinal digestion, the EWP-Ca-loaded nanoliposomes were more electrically and physically stable than the crude liposomes. Therefore, the EWP-Ca-loaded nanoliposomes could be used as a favorable dietary calcium delivery system to promote calcium bioavailability. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Nanoliposomes were fabricated in this study to encapsulate the egg white peptide-calcium complex (EWP-Ca) for calcium delivery. The EWP-Ca-loaded nanoliposomes effectively slowed the release of calcium in gastric digestion, allowing more soluble calcium to enter the intestinal tract, and were more electrically and physically stable in the subsequent intestinal digestion. Therefore, the EWP-Ca-loaded nanoliposomes may be incorporated in calcium-fortified food to enhance calcium delivery for maintaining bone health.

When Albumin Meets Liposomes: A Feasible Drug Carrier for Biomedical Applications

Albumin, the most abundant protein in plasma, possesses some inherent beneficial structural and physiological characteristics that make it suitable for use as a drug delivery agent, such as an extraordinary drug-binding capacity and long blood retention, with a high biocompatibility. The use of these characteristics as a nanoparticle drug delivery system (DDS) offers several advantages, including a longer circulation time, lower toxicity, and more significant drug loading. To date, many innovative liposome preparations have been developed in which albumin is involved as a DDS. These novel albumin-containing liposome preparations show superior deliverability for genes, hydrophilic/hydrophobic substances and proteins/peptides to the targeting area compared to original liposomes by virtue of their high biocompatibility, stability, effective loading content, and the capacity for targeting. This review summarizes the current status of albumin applications in liposome-based DDS, focusing on albumin-coated liposomes and albumin-encapsulated liposomes as a DDS carrier for potential medical applications.

Oral fate and stabilization technologies of lactoferrin: a systematic review

Lactoferrin (Lf), a bioactive protein initially found in many biological secretions including milk, is regarded as the nutritional supplement or therapeutic ligand due to its multiple functions. Research on its mode of action reveals that intact Lf or its active peptide (i.e., lactoferricin) shows an important multifunctional performance. Oral delivery is considered as the most convenient administration route for this bioactive protein. Unfortunately, Lf is sensitive to the gastrointestinal (GI) physicochemical stresses and lactoferricin is undetectable in GI digesta. This review introduces the functionality of Lf at the molecular level and its degradation behavior in GI tract is discussed in detail. Subsequently, the absorption and transport of Lf from intestine into the blood circulation, which is pivotal to its health promoting effects in various tissues, and some assisting labeling methods are discussed. Stabilization technologies aiming at preserving the structural integrity and functional properties of orally administrated Lf are summarized and compared. Altogether, this work comprehensively reviews the structure-function relationship of Lf, its oral fate and the development of stabilization technologies for the enhancement of the oral bioavailability of Lf. The existing limitations and scope for future research are also discussed.

Dietary and Protective Factors to Halt or Mitigate Progression of Autoimmunity, COVID-19 and Its Associated Metabolic Diseases

COVID-19 is without any doubt the worst pandemic we have faced since the H1N1 virus outbreak. Even if vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 infection is becoming increasingly available, a more feasible approach for COVID-19 prevention and therapy is still needed. Evidence of a pathological link between metabolic diseases and severe forms of COVID-19 has stimulated critical reflection and new considerations. In particular, an abnormal immune response observed in certain patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection suggested possible common predisposing risk factors with autoimmune diseases such as Type 1 Diabetes (T1D). Correct supplementation with dietary factors may be key to preventing and counteracting both the underlying metabolic impairment and the complications of COVID-19. A set of agents may inhibit the cytokine storm and hypercoagulability that characterize severe COVID-19 infection: vitamin D3, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, polyphenols like pterostilbene, polydatin and honokiol, which can activate anti-inflammatory and antioxidant sirtuins pathways, quercetin, vitamin C, zinc, melatonin, lactoferrin and glutathione. These agents could be highly beneficial for subjects who have altered immune responses. In this review, we discuss the antiviral and metabolic effects of these dietary factors and propose their combination for potential applications in the prevention and treatment of COVID-19. Rigorous studies will be fundamental for validating preventive and therapeutic protocols that could be of assistance to mitigate disease progression following SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Microfluidic Assembly: An Innovative Tool for the Encapsulation, Protection, and Controlled Release of Nutraceuticals

Nutraceuticals have been gradually accepted as food ingredients that can offer health benefits and provide protection against several diseases. It is widely accepted due to potential nutritional benefits, safety, and therapeutic effects. Most nutraceuticals are vulnerable to the changes in the external environment, which leads to poor physical and chemical stability and absorption. Several researchers have designed various encapsulation technologies to promote the use of nutraceuticals. Microfluidic technology is an emerging approach which can be used for nutraceutical delivery with precise control. The delivery systems using microfluidic technology have obtained much interest in recent years. In this review article, we have summarized the recently introduced nutraceutical delivery platforms including emulsions, liposomes, microspheres, microgels, and polymer nanoparticles based on microfluidic techniques. Emphasis has been made to discuss the advantages, preparations, characterizations, and applications of nutraceutical delivery systems. Finally, the challenges, several up-scaling methods, and future expectations are discussed.

Nature-Assembled Structures for Delivery of Bioactive Compounds and Their Potential in Functional Foods

Consumers are demanding more natural, healthy, and high-quality products. The addition of health-promoting substances, such as bioactive compounds, to foods can boost their therapeutic effect. However, the incorporation of bioactive substances into food products involves several technological challenges. They may have low solubility in water or poor stability in the food environment and/or during digestion, resulting in a loss of their therapeutic properties. Over recent years, the encapsulation of bioactive compounds into laboratory-engineered colloidal structures has been successful in overcoming some of these hurdles. However, several nature-assembled colloidal structures could be employed for this purpose and may offer many advantages over laboratory-engineered colloidal structures. For example, the casein micelles and milk fat globules from milk and the oil bodies from seeds were designed by nature to deliver biological material or for storage purposes. These biological functional properties make them good candidates for the encapsulation of bioactive compounds to aid in their addition into foods. This review discusses the structure and biological function of different nature-assembled carriers, preparation/isolation methods, some of the advantages and challenges in their use as bioactive compound delivery systems, and their behavior during digestion.

Lactoferrin from Bovine Milk: A Protective Companion for Life

Lactoferrin (Lf), an iron-binding multifunctional glycoprotein belonging to the transferrin family, is present in most biological secretions and reaches particularly high concentrations in colostrum and breast milk. A key function of lactoferrin is non-immune defence and it is considered to be a mediator linking innate and adaptive immune responses. Lf from bovine milk (bLf), the main Lf used in human medicine because of its easy availability, has been designated by the United States Food and Drug Administration as a food additive that is generally recognized as safe (GRAS). Among the numerous protective activities exercised by this nutraceutical protein, the most important ones demonstrated after its oral administration are: Antianemic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, antioxidant and anticancer activities. All these activities underline the significance in host defence of bLf, which represents an ideal nutraceutical product both for its economic production and for its tolerance after ingestion. The purpose of this review is to summarize the most important beneficial activities demonstrated following the oral administration of bLf, trying to identify potential perspectives on its prophylactic and therapeutic applications in the future.