Synergistic effects of ultrasound, pH-shifting and transglutaminase on high internal phase pickering emulsion
Akhunzada Bilawal1, Muhammad Ishfaq2, Munkh-Amgalan Gantumur1
1Key Laboratory of Dairy Science, Ministry of Education, College of Food Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China.
Abstract:
Protein-based particle-stabilized high internal phase Pickering emulsion gels (HIPPEGs) are gaining interest for their potential in stable, functional, and reduced-fat food products. Whey protein isolate microgels (WPIMs), as natural emulsifiers, are particularly promising; however, the combined effects of transglutaminase (T), ultrasonic (U), and pH-shifting (P) treatments on their functionality remains underexplored. The aim of the current study was to investigate the impact of U, P, and T treatments on the structure and characteristics of HIPPEGs. UPT treatment increased the α-helix and β-sheet content of WPIM from 23.1 % to 30.8 % and 34.5 % to 41.7 %, respectively. Its interfacial tension decreased from 37.2 mN/m to 19.4 mN/m, and its particle size reduced from 204.5 nm to 135.7 nm. The zeta potential of -44.67 mV indicated enhanced particle stability. Rheological analysis revealed UPT-treated had the highest storage modulus (4.52 Pa), stronger gel networks, and greater gel hardness (5.3 N). Enhanced thermal and centrifugal stability further confirmed their superior structural integrity. Super-resolution microscopy showed uniform, smaller droplets in UPT-treated, with steric hindrance preventing aggregation. Overall, UPT-modified WPIMs are promising for designing stable HIPPEGs applicable to high-fat foods, functional emulsions and reduced-fat products. Further studies may explore their in vitro digestion, release behavior, and long-term storage stability.
Related Concept Videos
Membrane Fluidity
Membrane Fluidity
Mosaic nature of the membrane
The mosaic characteristic of the membrane helps the plasma membrane remain fluid. The integral proteins and lipids exist as separate but loosely-attached molecules in the membrane. The membrane is a relatively...
Asymmetric Lipid Bilayer
Feedback Regulation of Calcium Concentration
Various transmembrane receptors, such as G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), elicit a response to extracellular signals by increasing cytosolic calcium. Activated GPCRs...


