Cyclodextrin-based Pickering emulsions: functional properties and drug delivery applications

Area of Science:

• Interfacial Science
• Colloid and Surface Chemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Cyclodextrins (CDs) are biocompatible cyclic oligosaccharides with unique interfacial properties.
• CDs exhibit low intrinsic surface activity but can stabilize emulsions via inclusion complexation.
• Surfactant-free Pickering emulsions stabilized by CDs offer advantages over conventional emulsions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the molecular mechanisms of CD-stabilized Pickering emulsions.
• To discuss preparation methods, lipid encapsulation, and stability of CD-based Pickering emulsions.
• To highlight applications in drug delivery, cosmetics, nutraceuticals, and translational medicine.

Main Methods:

• Critical review of recent literature on CD-stabilized Pickering emulsions.
• Analysis of molecular mechanisms of emulsion stabilization.
• Discussion of preparation techniques and characterization methods.

Main Results:

• CDs stabilize Pickering emulsions by complexing oil-phase components at the interface.
• CD-based Pickering emulsions demonstrate enhanced physical stability and tolerability.
• Rheological, textural, and functional properties are detailed for various applications.

Conclusions:

• CD-stabilized Pickering emulsions represent a promising surfactant-free formulation strategy.
• Applications span drug delivery, cosmetics, nutraceuticals, and antimicrobial therapies.
• Future directions include leveraging molecular encapsulation for antiviral and antibacterial applications.