Encapsulation of luteolin by self-assembled Rha/SSPS/SPI nano complexes: Characterization, stability, and...

Area of Science:

• Food Science
• Materials Science
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Luteolin exhibits anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-tumor properties.
• Poor water solubility and stability hinder luteolin's use in functional foods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create luteolin-loaded nanocomposites using soybean protein isolate (SPI), soluble soybean polysaccharide (SSPS), and/or rhamnolipid (Rha).
• To evaluate the properties and stability of these nanocomposites for improved food applications.

Main Methods:

• Layer-by-layer self-assembly technique was employed to prepare nanocomposites.
• Particle size, loading ratio, encapsulation efficiency, and interactions between components were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Rhamnolipid/SPI/Luteolin (Rha/SPI/Lut) showed the smallest particle size (206.24 nm) and highest loading ratio (8.03 μg/mg).
• Rhamnolipid/SSPS/SPI/Luteolin (Rha/SSPS/SPI/Lut) achieved the highest encapsulation efficiency (82.45%).
• Rha/SSPS/SPI/Lut demonstrated superior thermal and storage stability, with the slowest release during simulated gastrointestinal digestion.

Conclusions:

• The developed nanocomposites enhance luteolin's stability and solubility for functional food applications.
• Synergistic effects between Rha and SSPS improve the overall performance of the luteolin delivery system.