Tailored anthocyanin delivery through modulating -COOH groups in pH-responsive peptide gels

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nutritional Science
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Precision nutrition requires stable delivery of bioactive compounds like anthocyanins.
• The gastrointestinal (GI) environment presents variable conditions challenging compound stability and delivery.
• Existing delivery systems may lack the necessary adaptability for diverse GI conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the modulation of peptide gel properties by altering pH-responsive carboxyl (-COOH) groups.
• To enable precise control over gel pH responsiveness and rheological characteristics for anthocyanin delivery.
• To develop a customizable delivery solution for bioactive compounds in varied GI environments.

Main Methods:

• Synthesizing peptide gels with varying numbers of carboxyl (-COOH) groups and amino acids.
• Characterizing the pH responsiveness, rheological properties, and physicochemical stability of the peptide gels.
• Evaluating the stability and release characteristics of anthocyanins encapsulated within the modified gels.
• Assessing the biocompatibility of the developed peptide gel system.

Main Results:

• Increasing -COOH groups and amino acids enhanced peptide gel pH responsiveness and rheological properties.
• The modified gels demonstrated improved stability for encapsulated anthocyanins under simulated GI conditions.
• Anthocyanin release rates were not compromised, and gel biocompatibility was maintained.
• The study successfully demonstrated precise control over gel characteristics through peptide sequence modification.

Conclusions:

• Modulating -COOH groups in peptide gels offers a precise method to control their properties for targeted delivery.
• This approach provides a customizable and stable delivery system for anthocyanins and potentially other bioactive compounds.
• The findings support the advancement of precision nutrition through enhanced bioavailability and therapeutic potential of nutrients.