Curcuminoids loaded eutectic starch emulsion gel: rheology, stability, in-vitro release behavior and cytotoxicity

Area of Science:

• Food Science
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Curcuminoids possess significant therapeutic potential but require effective delivery systems.
• Starch-based gels are widely used in food applications but can be improved for bioactive delivery.
• Deep eutectic solvents offer a sustainable method for extracting bioactive compounds.

Purpose of the Study:

• To fabricate and characterize a novel starch-based eutectic emulsion gel incorporating curcuminoids.
• To investigate the release behavior and toxicity of curcumin within the gel matrix.
• To evaluate the physicochemical, functional, rheological, and antimicrobial properties of the developed emulsion gel.

Main Methods:

• Extraction of curcuminoids from Curcuma caesia rhizome using a fructose-lactic acid deep eutectic solvent.
• Fabrication of a rice starch-based emulsion gel matrix incorporating the curcuminoid extract.
• Characterization of physicochemical properties (water holding capacity, syneresis), antioxidant capacity, rheology, antimicrobial activity, and cytotoxicity.

Main Results:

• The emulsion gel demonstrated a strong network with high water holding capacity (19.26%) and low syneresis.
• Curcuminoid extract significantly enhanced antioxidant capacity and curcumin retention within the gel.
• The gel exhibited viscoelastic properties suitable for food applications, along with high antimicrobial activity and low cytotoxicity.

Conclusions:

• Starch-based eutectic emulsion gels represent an innovative platform for delivering plant-derived bioactives like curcumin.
• The developed gel combines the functional properties of starch with the therapeutic benefits of Curcuma caesia.
• This approach holds promise for creating functional foods with enhanced health benefits and improved bioactive delivery.