Stabilization of Black Locust Flower Extract via Encapsulation Using Alginate and Alginate-Chitosan Microparticles

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Food Chemistry
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Black locust flower extract contains bioactive polyphenols with potential health benefits.
• Gastrointestinal degradation reduces the efficacy of these compounds.
• Encapsulation is a strategy to protect bioactive compounds and enhance their delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To encapsulate black locust flower extract using biodegradable polysaccharides, alginate and chitosan.
• To evaluate the antioxidant properties and release kinetics of the encapsulated extract.
• To assess the suitability of alginate-chitosan microparticles as a delivery system.

Main Methods:

• Characterization of black locust flower extract using UHPLC-ESI-MS.
• Microencapsulation of the extract using an extrusion method with alginate and alginate-chitosan.
• In vitro assessment of antioxidant activity, encapsulation efficiency, swelling, and release profiles in simulated gastrointestinal fluids.

Main Results:

• High encapsulation efficiency (>92%) was achieved for both alginate and alginate-chitosan microparticles.
• Alginate-chitosan microparticles exhibited lower permeability and a more sustained release of antioxidants.
• Encapsulation protected antioxidants from degradation and improved the extract's antioxidant activity.

Conclusions:

• Alginate-chitosan microparticles are effective for encapsulating black locust flower extract, enhancing its stability and bioavailability.
• The sustained release profile and improved antioxidant activity make this system promising for nutraceutical or pharmaceutical applications.
• The biodegradable and non-toxic nature of the polymer matrix ensures safety for human use.