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Published on: February 8, 2016
β-d-glucan as an enteric delivery vehicle for probiotics
Adil Gani1, Asima Shah1, Mudasir Ahmad1
1Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, 190006, India.
Abstract:
Three strains of probiotics L. casei, L. acidophilus and B. bifidum were encapsulated in β-d-glucan matrix using freeze drying technique in order to increase survivability during their journey through GI tract. The encapsulation efficiency (%) of β-d-glucan varied significantly with Bifidobacteria showing low survival rate than Lactobacilli. SEM images revealed a partially collapsed structure with bacterial cells distributed randomly in the matrix. Further absorption band between 1300 and 900cm-1 in FTIR spectra shows the presence of bacterial proteins and nucleic acids. For encapsulated β-d-glucan maximum degree of swelling was observed at pH 3 and 4, whereas when the pH value was increased to 6.5 the encapsulated β-d-glucan started their disintegration. In vitro release studies revealed that the microcapsules start to dissolve upon entry to the small intestine where it is needed most.
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