Nanonutraceuticals Delivery

A special issue of Nanomaterials (ISSN 2079-4991). This special issue belongs to the section "Biology and Medicines".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 June 2021) | Viewed by 43450

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
1. Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Charles Darwin", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
2. Research Center for Nanotechnology for Engineering of Sapienza (CNIS), Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
Interests: nanobiomedicine and nanotoxicology; micro and nanoplastics; cell death; exosomes and microvesicles
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

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Guest Editor
Department of Pharmacy, University of Chieti-Pescara "G. d'Annunzio", 63100 Chieti, Italy
Interests: magnetic fields; apoptosis and phagocytosis; nanomaterials; plant-based natural compounds; plant and human nutrition

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Among the many nanotechnology applications, there is the production of nanoscale materials for the food industry by the characterization, fabrication, and manipulation of structures, devices or materials having at least one dimension not exceeding 100 nm. The science of nanosized food ingredients has made great progress in the last few years, with products that increase the functionality or bioavailability of nutrients, thereby minimizing their concentrations needed in the marketed foods. Nevertheless, the production of nanodelivered nutraceuticals is still in its infancy. In addition to their actual function of providing nutrition, some obtained in vitro outcomes show these pharmaceutical-grade and standardized nanonutrients have health benefits by preventing the occurrence of cancers and several cardiovascular and neurodegenerative disorders. However, their safe nanomaterials-based delivery without exhibiting any side effects for humans is a matter of discussion in the scientific community.

The Special Issue aims to provide further knowledge in the field of application of nanomaterial-based carriers involved in nutraceutical delivery through original articles and reviews focused on the development of innovative synthesis processes, as well as in vitro and in vivo studies assessing the biological effects and/or physical and chemical properties of them.

Potential topics include but are not limited to the following:

  • Delivery of nanonutraceuticals;
  • Dietary nanosupplements;
  • Food nanoadditives;
  • Food nanomaterials;
  • Functional nanofoods;
  • Nanoencapsulation of nutraceuticals and nutrients;
  • Nanoformulations including nutraceuticals;
  • Pharmaceutical-grade and standardized nanonutrients.

Dr. Luciana Dini
Dr. Cristian Vergallo
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Keywords

  • Delivery of nanonutraceuticals
  • Dietary nanosupplements
  • Food nanoadditives
  • Food nanomaterials
  • Functional nanofoods
  • Nanoencapsulation of nutraceuticals and nutrients
  • Nanoformulations including nutraceuticals
  • Pharmaceutical-grade and standardized nanonutrients

Published Papers (10 papers)

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Editorial

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3 pages, 174 KiB  
Editorial
Nanonutraceuticals Delivery
by Luciana Dini and Cristian Vergallo
Nanomaterials 2021, 11(8), 2031; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11082031 - 10 Aug 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1493
Abstract
Technological innovation, environmental sustainability, health, and wellness are the trajectories explored by current research to identify new strategies for a general improvement of human quality of life [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanonutraceuticals Delivery)

Research

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13 pages, 22215 KiB  
Article
Resveratrol-Loaded Nanoemulsions: In Vitro Activity on Human T24 Bladder Cancer Cells
by Federica Rinaldi, Linda Maurizi, Jacopo Forte, Massimiliano Marazzato, Patrizia Nadia Hanieh, Antonietta Lucia Conte, Maria Grazia Ammendolia, Carlotta Marianecci, Maria Carafa and Catia Longhi
Nanomaterials 2021, 11(6), 1569; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11061569 - 15 Jun 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2276
Abstract
The chemopreventive potential of Resveratrol (RV) against bladder cancer and its mechanism of action have been widely demonstrated. The physicochemical properties of RV, particularly its high reactivity and low solubility in aqueous phase, have been limiting factors for its bioavailability and in vivo [...] Read more.
The chemopreventive potential of Resveratrol (RV) against bladder cancer and its mechanism of action have been widely demonstrated. The physicochemical properties of RV, particularly its high reactivity and low solubility in aqueous phase, have been limiting factors for its bioavailability and in vivo efficacy. In order to overcome these limitations, its inclusion in drug delivery systems needs to be taken into account. In particular, oil-in-water (O/W) nanoemulsions (NEs) have been considered ideal candidates for RV encapsulation. Since surfactant and oil composition can strongly influence NE features and their application field, a ternary phase diagram was constructed and evaluated to select a suitable surfactant/oil/water ratio. The selected sample was deeply characterized in terms of physical chemical features, stability, release capability and cytotoxic activity. Results showed a significant decrease in cell viability after the incubation of bladder T24 cancer cells with RV-loaded NEs, compared to free RV. The selected NE formulation was able to preserve and improve RV cytotoxic activity by a more rapid drug uptake into the cells. O/W NEs represent an effective approach to improve RV bioavailability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanonutraceuticals Delivery)
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16 pages, 4124 KiB  
Article
Oleuropein-Laded Ufasomes Improve the Nutraceutical Efficacy
by Maria Chiara Cristiano, Francesca Froiio, Antonia Mancuso, Donato Cosco, Luciana Dini, Luisa Di Marzio, Massimo Fresta and Donatella Paolino
Nanomaterials 2021, 11(1), 105; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11010105 - 04 Jan 2021
Cited by 25 | Viewed by 3075
Abstract
Ufasomes are unsaturated fatty acid liposomes made up of oleic and linoleic acids, natural components required in various biological processes. This kind of nanocarrier is characterized by a simple and dynamic structure and is able to improve the bioavailability of unsaturated fatty acids. [...] Read more.
Ufasomes are unsaturated fatty acid liposomes made up of oleic and linoleic acids, natural components required in various biological processes. This kind of nanocarrier is characterized by a simple and dynamic structure and is able to improve the bioavailability of unsaturated fatty acids. The aim of this investigation was to evaluate ufasomes as natural compound delivery systems to deliver oleuropein and improve its antioxidant activity. Oleuropein is a phenolic compound mainly present in olives and olive oil, with several biological properties, such as the antioxidant activity. However, to improve their biological activity, antioxidant compounds should be able to cross cell membranes and uniformly incorporate in cells. Because of the great similarity between their constituents and cell membranes, ufasomes could be advantageous carriers for oleuropein delivery. The physico-chemical characteristics of ufasomes were investigated. A regular shape was shown by transmission electron microscopy studies, while the mean sizes were dependent on the ufasomes composition. In vitro studies highlighted that empty ufasomes did not lead to cell mortality at the tested concentrations and a good carrier internalization in CaCo-2 cells, further studies in vitro studies demonstrated that oleuropein-loaded ufasomes were able to enhance the antioxidant activity of the free active substance making this carrier a suitable one for nutraceutical application. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanonutraceuticals Delivery)
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18 pages, 4122 KiB  
Article
Nanoemulgel for Improved Topical Delivery of Retinyl Palmitate: Formulation Design and Stability Evaluation
by Mohammed S. Algahtani, Mohammad Zaki Ahmad and Javed Ahmad
Nanomaterials 2020, 10(5), 848; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano10050848 - 28 Apr 2020
Cited by 70 | Viewed by 6340
Abstract
Retinyl palmitate is a vitamin A ester belonging to the family of endogenous natural retinoid and used to treat various skin disorders like acne, skin aging, wrinkles, and dark spots, as well as to protect against psoriasis. Despite the known therapeutic benefits of [...] Read more.
Retinyl palmitate is a vitamin A ester belonging to the family of endogenous natural retinoid and used to treat various skin disorders like acne, skin aging, wrinkles, and dark spots, as well as to protect against psoriasis. Despite the known therapeutic benefits of retinyl palmitate, the conventional topical delivery of retinyl palmitate commonly associated with adverse reactions such as skin irritation, redness, excessive peeling, and dryness. Therefore, the current study aims to encapsulate the retinyl palmitate in nanoemulsion then incorporate it into a hydrogel system to improve the topical delivery and stability. Low-energy emulsification method was used for the nano-encapsulation of retinyl palmitate. The phase behavior study was used for the investigation and the optimization of the formulation. The droplet size of the optimized nanoemulsion was in nano dimension (16.71 nm) with low polydispersity index (PdI) (0.015), negative zeta potential (−20.6 mV). It demonstrated the influence of vortexing on droplet size and PdI during nanoemulsion preparation. The retinyl palmitate loaded nanoemulgel delivery system exhibited significant improvement (p < 0.05) in skin permeability after topical application. Employment of the nano-encapsulation approach afterward dispersion into hydrogel system for the development of a topical delivery system of retinyl palmitate resulted in improvement in its UV and storage stability as well. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanonutraceuticals Delivery)
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Review

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17 pages, 2618 KiB  
Review
Nanochitosan: Commemorating the Metamorphosis of an ExoSkeletal Waste to a Versatile Nutraceutical
by Iyyakkannu Sivanesan, Manikandan Muthu, Judy Gopal, Nazim Hasan, Syed Kashif Ali, Juhyun Shin and Jae-Wook Oh
Nanomaterials 2021, 11(3), 821; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11030821 - 23 Mar 2021
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2867
Abstract
Chitin (poly-N-acetyl-D-glucosamine) is the second (after cellulose) most abundant organic polymer. In its deacetylated form—chitosan—becomes a very interesting material for medical use. The chitosan nano-structures whose preparation is described in this article shows unique biomedical value. The preparation of nanochitosan, as [...] Read more.
Chitin (poly-N-acetyl-D-glucosamine) is the second (after cellulose) most abundant organic polymer. In its deacetylated form—chitosan—becomes a very interesting material for medical use. The chitosan nano-structures whose preparation is described in this article shows unique biomedical value. The preparation of nanochitosan, as well as the most vital biomedical applications (antitumor, drug delivery and other medical uses), have been discussed in this review. The challenges confronting the progress of nanochitosan from benchtop to bedside clinical settings have been evaluated. The need for inclusion of nano aspects into chitosan research, with improvisation from nanotechnological inputs has been prescribed for breaking down the limitations. Future perspectives of nanochitosan and the challenges facing nanochitosan applications and the areas needing research focus have been highlighted. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanonutraceuticals Delivery)
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19 pages, 2366 KiB  
Review
Nanonutraceuticals: The New Frontier of Supplementary Food
by Donatella Paolino, Antonia Mancuso, Maria Chiara Cristiano, Francesca Froiio, Narimane Lammari, Christian Celia and Massimo Fresta
Nanomaterials 2021, 11(3), 792; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11030792 - 19 Mar 2021
Cited by 35 | Viewed by 3604
Abstract
In the last few decades, the combination between nanotechnology and nutraceutics has gained the attention of several research groups. Nutraceuticals are considered as active compounds, abundant in natural products, showing beneficial effects on human health. Unfortunately, the uses, and consequently the health benefits, [...] Read more.
In the last few decades, the combination between nanotechnology and nutraceutics has gained the attention of several research groups. Nutraceuticals are considered as active compounds, abundant in natural products, showing beneficial effects on human health. Unfortunately, the uses, and consequently the health benefits, of many nutraceutical products are limited by their unsuitable chemico-physical features. For example, many nutraceuticals are characterized by low water solubility, low stability and high susceptibility to light and oxygen, poor absorption and potential chemical modifications after their administration. Based on the potential efficacy of nutraceuticals and on their limiting features, nanotechnology could be considered a revolutionary innovation in empowering the beneficial properties of nutraceuticals on human health, thus enhancing their efficacy in several diseases. For this reason, nanotechnology could represent a new frontier in supplementary food. In this review, the most recent nanotechnological approaches are discussed, focusing on their ability to improve the bioavailability of the most common nutraceuticals, providing an overview regarding both the advantages and the possible limitations of the use of several nanodelivery systems. In fact, although the efficacy of smart nanocarriers in improving health benefits deriving from nutraceuticals has been widely demonstrated, the conflicting opinions on the mechanism of action of some nanosystems still reduce their applicability in the therapeutic field. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanonutraceuticals Delivery)
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19 pages, 4656 KiB  
Review
Current Nanocarrier Strategies Improve Vitamin B12 Pharmacokinetics, Ameliorate Patients’ Lives, and Reduce Costs
by Marco Fidaleo, Stefano Tacconi, Carolina Sbarigia, Daniele Passeri, Marco Rossi, Ada Maria Tata and Luciana Dini
Nanomaterials 2021, 11(3), 743; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11030743 - 16 Mar 2021
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 5348
Abstract
Vitamin B12 (VitB12) is a naturally occurring compound produced by microorganisms and an essential nutrient for humans. Several papers highlight the role of VitB12 deficiency in bone and heart health, depression, memory performance, fertility, embryo development, and cancer, while VitB12 treatment is crucial [...] Read more.
Vitamin B12 (VitB12) is a naturally occurring compound produced by microorganisms and an essential nutrient for humans. Several papers highlight the role of VitB12 deficiency in bone and heart health, depression, memory performance, fertility, embryo development, and cancer, while VitB12 treatment is crucial for survival in inborn errors of VitB12 metabolism. VitB12 is administrated through intramuscular injection, thus impacting the patients’ lifestyle, although it is known that oral administration may meet the specific requirement even in the case of malabsorption. Furthermore, the high-dose injection of VitB12 does not ensure a constant dosage, while the oral route allows only 1.2% of the vitamin to be absorbed in human beings. Nanocarriers are promising nanotechnology that can enable therapies to be improved, reducing side effects. Today, nanocarrier strategies applied at VitB12 delivery are at the initial phase and aim to simplify administration, reduce costs, improve pharmacokinetics, and ameliorate the quality of patients’ lives. The safety of nanotechnologies is still under investigation and few treatments involving nanocarriers have been approved, so far. Here, we highlight the role of VitB12 in human metabolism and diseases, and the issues linked to its molecule properties, and discuss how nanocarriers can improve the therapy and supplementation of the vitamin and reduce possible side effects and limits. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanonutraceuticals Delivery)
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30 pages, 1824 KiB  
Review
Novel Therapeutic Delivery of Nanocurcumin in Central Nervous System Related Disorders
by Elisa Panzarini, Stefania Mariano, Stefano Tacconi, Elisabetta Carata, Ada Maria Tata and Luciana Dini
Nanomaterials 2021, 11(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11010002 - 22 Dec 2020
Cited by 35 | Viewed by 6562
Abstract
Nutraceuticals represent complementary or alternative beneficial products to the expensive and high-tech therapeutic tools in modern medicine. Nowadays, their medical or health benefits in preventing or treating different types of diseases is widely accepted, due to fewer side effects than synthetic drugs, improved [...] Read more.
Nutraceuticals represent complementary or alternative beneficial products to the expensive and high-tech therapeutic tools in modern medicine. Nowadays, their medical or health benefits in preventing or treating different types of diseases is widely accepted, due to fewer side effects than synthetic drugs, improved bioavailability and long half-life. Among herbal and natural compounds, curcumin is a very attractive herbal supplement considering its multipurpose properties. The potential effects of curcumin on glia cells and its therapeutic and protective properties in central nervous system (CNS)-related disorders is relevant. However, curcumin is unstable and easily degraded or metabolized into other forms posing limits to its clinical development. This is particularly important in brain pathologies determined blood brain barrier (BBB) obstacle. To enhance the stability and bioavailability of curcumin, many studies focused on the design and development of curcumin nanodelivery systems (nanoparticles, micelles, dendrimers, and diverse nanocarriers). These nanoconstructs can increase curcumin stability, solubility, in vivo uptake, bioactivity and safety. Recently, several studies have reported on a curcumin exosome-based delivery system, showing great therapeutical potential. The present work aims to review the current available data in improving bioactivity of curcumin in treatment or prevention of neurological disorders. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanonutraceuticals Delivery)
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47 pages, 3060 KiB  
Review
Potential of Nanonutraceuticals in Increasing Immunity
by Josef Jampilek and Katarina Kralova
Nanomaterials 2020, 10(11), 2224; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano10112224 - 09 Nov 2020
Cited by 26 | Viewed by 5275
Abstract
Nutraceuticals are defined as foods or their extracts that have a demonstrably positive effect on human health. According to the decision of the European Food Safety Authority, this positive effect, the so-called health claim, must be clearly demonstrated best by performed tests. Nutraceuticals [...] Read more.
Nutraceuticals are defined as foods or their extracts that have a demonstrably positive effect on human health. According to the decision of the European Food Safety Authority, this positive effect, the so-called health claim, must be clearly demonstrated best by performed tests. Nutraceuticals include dietary supplements and functional foods. These special foods thus affect human health and can positively affect the immune system and strengthen it even in these turbulent times, when the human population is exposed to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many of these special foods are supplemented with nanoparticles of active substances or processed into nanoformulations. The benefits of nanoparticles in this case include enhanced bioavailability, controlled release, and increased stability. Lipid-based delivery systems and the encapsulation of nutraceuticals are mainly used for the enrichment of food products with these health-promoting compounds. This contribution summarizes the current state of the research and development of effective nanonutraceuticals influencing the body’s immune responses, such as vitamins (C, D, E, B12, folic acid), minerals (Zn, Fe, Se), antioxidants (carotenoids, coenzyme Q10, polyphenols, curcumin), omega-3 fatty acids, and probiotics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanonutraceuticals Delivery)
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30 pages, 4446 KiB  
Review
Nutraceutical Vegetable Oil Nanoformulations for Prevention and Management of Diseases
by Cristian Vergallo
Nanomaterials 2020, 10(6), 1232; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano10061232 - 24 Jun 2020
Cited by 23 | Viewed by 5481
Abstract
The scientific community is becoming increasingly interested in identifying, characterizing, and delivering nutraceuticals, which constitutes a multi-billion-dollar business. These bioactive agents are claimed to exhibit several health benefits, including the prevention and treatment of diseases such as arthritis, cancer, osteoporosis, cataracts, Alzheimer’s, and [...] Read more.
The scientific community is becoming increasingly interested in identifying, characterizing, and delivering nutraceuticals, which constitutes a multi-billion-dollar business. These bioactive agents are claimed to exhibit several health benefits, including the prevention and treatment of diseases such as arthritis, cancer, osteoporosis, cataracts, Alzheimer’s, and Huntington’s diseases, heart, brain and metabolic disorders, etc. Nutraceuticals are typically consumed as part of a regular human diet and are usually present within foods, comprising vegetable oil, although at low levels and variable composition. Thus, it is difficult to control the type, amount and frequency of their ingestion by individuals. Nanoformulations about vegetable oil-based bioactive compounds with nutraceutical properties are useful for overcoming these issues, while improving the uptake, absorption, and bioavailability in the body. The purpose of this current study is to review papers on such nanoformulations, particularly those relevant for health benefits and the prevention and management of diseases, as well as bioactives extracted from vegetable oils enhancing the drug effectiveness, retrieved through bibliographic databases by setting a timespan from January 2000 to April 2020 (about 1758 records). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanonutraceuticals Delivery)
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