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Synthesis, Cellular Delivery and In vivo Application of Dendrimer-based pH Sensors
Published on: September 10, 2013
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Regulated anthocyanin release through novel pH-responsive peptide hydrogels in simulated digestive environment
Wenjun Li1,2,3, Qianqian Bie1,2, Kaihui Zhang1,2
1School of Food and Bioengineering, Food Microbiology Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Xihua University, Chengdu, 611130, China.
Food Chemistry: X
|August 8, 2024
Summary
Researchers developed pH-responsive peptide hydrogels to stabilize anthocyanins, improving their bioavailability. These biocompatible carriers protect anthocyanins from degradation and enable controlled release in the intestines.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Nutritional Biochemistry
- Drug Delivery Systems
Background:
- Anthocyanins, potent antioxidants, suffer from poor stability and low bioavailability as food nutrients due to degradation.
- Developing effective delivery systems is crucial to enhance the stability and therapeutic potential of anthocyanins.
Purpose of the Study:
- To engineer novel pH-responsive peptide hydrogels as carriers for anthocyanin encapsulation.
- To evaluate the stability, biocompatibility, and controlled release characteristics of anthocyanin-loaded hydrogels.
Main Methods:
- Hydrogel characterization using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and rheological analysis.
- Biocompatibility assessment via MTT and hemolysis assays.
- Encapsulation efficiency determination and fluorescence microscopy.
- Stability testing under simulated gastric conditions, high temperatures, and heavy metal exposure.
- In vitro release studies in simulated gastric and intestinal fluids.
Main Results:
- SEM and rheology confirmed the formation of typical gel structures.
- MTT and hemolysis assays demonstrated excellent hydrogel biocompatibility.
- High encapsulation efficiency of anthocyanins was achieved, confirmed by fluorescence microscopy.
- Peptide hydrogels significantly enhanced anthocyanin stability against gastric acid, heat, and heavy metals.
- Anthocyanins were protected in simulated gastric fluid and released rapidly in simulated intestinal fluid.
Conclusions:
- pH-responsive peptide hydrogels effectively stabilize anthocyanins, overcoming their inherent instability.
- The developed hydrogels offer a promising platform for controlled anthocyanin delivery and enhanced bioavailability.
- This technology holds potential for personalized nutrition and therapeutic applications.
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