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Solubility of Hydrophobic Compounds in Aqueous Solution Using Combinations of Self-assembling Peptide and Amino Acid
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Potato Protein Isolate as a Solubility Enhancer of Poorly Water-Soluble Curcumin.
Kleopatra Kalouta1,2, Niyosha Ghalibaf2, Vito Foderà2,3
1Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Ed. 16, Palermo 90128, Italy.
ACS Omega
|April 27, 2026
Summary
Potato protein isolate (PPI) enhances curcumin solubility in water, overcoming a key challenge in drug development. This safe, plant-based approach improves bioavailability for poorly soluble compounds.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Food Science and Technology
Background:
- Poor aqueous solubility limits the clinical application and bioavailability of many drug compounds.
- Developing novel, safe strategies to enhance solubility is crucial for drug development and translation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate potato protein isolate (PPI) as a potential solubility enhancer for poorly water-soluble compounds.
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of PPI in improving curcumin's aqueous solubility.
Main Methods:
- Curcumin solubility was measured in aqueous solutions with varying concentrations of potato protein isolate (PPI).
- The effect of presolubilization in ethanol and PPI concentration on curcumin solubility was assessed.
- In vitro cytotoxicity of PPI and curcumin dispersions was evaluated using HeLa cells.
Main Results:
- Potato protein isolate (PPI) significantly increased curcumin solubility in a concentration-dependent manner compared to pure water.
- Complete solubilization of 0.1 mg/mL curcumin in 90% aqueous solution required high PPI concentrations and ethanol presolubilization.
- PPI demonstrated no toxicity to HeLa cells, while curcumin dispersions exhibited cytotoxic effects.
Conclusions:
- Potato protein isolate (PPI) effectively enhances the aqueous solubility of poorly soluble compounds like curcumin.
- PPI represents a safe, plant-derived alternative for improving drug solubility and bioavailability.
- Further research into less conventional plant protein isolates is warranted for pharmaceutical applications.
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