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Published on: February 15, 2019
The stomach, small intestine, and colon-specific gastrointestinal tract delivery systems for bioactive nutrients
Shuang Liang1, Dongyu Zhao2, Xiangyu Liu2
1Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Department of Nutrition and Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China; Central Laboratory, NMPA Key Laboratory for Dental Materials, National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing 100081, China.
Abstract:
Oral administration is a convenient way to deliver bioactive nutrients. However, the complex and dynamic environment of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract poses distinct challenges. These include the acidic environment of the stomach, limited transport across the GI mucosa, and the risk of enzymatic degradation, all of which can compromise the nutritional effectiveness of orally delivered nutrients. In response to these challenges, various GI tract delivery systems have been developed to target specific regions, such as the stomach, small intestine, or colon, to precisely control the release of bioactive nutrients and enhance their health-promoting benefits. This review critically examines the principles underlying stomach-, small intestine-, and colon-targeted delivery systems, highlighting the selection of appropriate wall materials and the interactions between delivery systems and the mucosal epithelial barrier. Moreover, we describe relevant biological models and quantitative analyses to measure these interactions. In particular, we emphasize the significant advantages offered by colon-targeted delivery systems in maintaining a healthy colonic microenvironment. This review aims to inspire novel concepts and stimulate further research into GI tract delivery systems, offering promising avenues for maximizing the therapeutic effects of bioactive nutrients in practical applications.
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