Recent Advances in Efficient Lutein-Loaded Zein-Based Solid Nano-Delivery Systems: Establishment, Structural...

Area of Science:

• * Food Science
• * Materials Science
• * Pharmaceutical Sciences

Background:

• * Plant proteins, particularly zein, are gaining traction as sustainable alternatives to animal proteins.
• * Zein's properties make it suitable for developing nanocarriers for bioactive compounds.
• * Lutein, a beneficial compound, faces challenges with stability and bioavailability.

Purpose of the Study:

• * To review advancements in zein-loaded lutein nanosystems.
• * To explore preparation, characterization, and functional properties of these systems.
• * To analyze the release, bioaccessibility, and synergistic effects within zein-lutein nanocomplexes.

Main Methods:

• * Review of recent literature on zein-lutein nanosystems.
• * Analysis of preparation techniques and structural characterization methods.
• * Examination of functional properties, release kinetics, and bioaccessibility.

Main Results:

• * Zein effectively encapsulates and protects lutein, improving its stability and bioavailability.
• * Zein-lutein nanosystems demonstrate enhanced digestive stability, solubility, and antioxidant properties.
• * Understanding the interactions between zein and lutein is key to optimizing nanoparticle formation.

Conclusions:

• * Zein-based nanodelivery systems offer a viable strategy for enhancing lutein's efficacy.
• * Modified zein can create more stable and efficient lutein nanosystems.
• * These advancements hold potential for applications in nutraceuticals and functional foods.