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Messenger RNA (mRNA) is the template for protein biosynthesis and is emerging as an essential active molecule to combat various diseases, including viral infection and cancer. Especially, mRNA-based vaccines, as a new type of vaccine, have played a leading role in fighting against the current global pandemic of COVID-19. However, the inherent drawbacks, including large size, negative charge, and instability, hinder its use as a therapeutic agent. Lipid carriers are distinguishable and promising vehicles for mRNA delivery, owning the capacity to encapsulate and deliver negatively charged drugs to the targeted tissues and release cargoes at the desired time. Here, we first summarized the structure and properties of different lipid carriers, such as liposomes, liposome-like nanoparticles, solid lipid nanoparticles, lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, exosomes and lipoprotein particles, and their applications in delivering mRNA. Then, the development of lipid-based formulations as vaccine delivery systems was discussed and highlighted. Recent advancements in the mRNA vaccine of COVID-19 were emphasized. Finally, we described our future vision and perspectives in this field. Lipid carriers with high biocompatibility have excellent mRNA encapsulation and delivery efficacy. Meanwhile, the emergence of lipid carriers provides an effective solution for delivering mRNA vaccines. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, different ratios of α/β-Cyclodextrin and carbonyldiimidazole as a cross linker were employed for formulation of α/β-Cyclodextrin Nanosponges wherein 1:6 M ratio was finalized for preparation of Cinnamon Extract/ trans -Cinnamaldehyde loaded Cyclodextrin Nanosponges via freeze drying. β-Cyclodextrin Nanosponges were found to have greater encapsulation efficiency for trans -Cinnamaldehyde (93.30% ± 1.94%) and Cinnamon Extract (35.64% ± 2.08%) compared to α-Cyclodextrin Nanosponges. FTIR spectra of loaded Cyclodextrin Nanosponges did not display any representative peaks of the Cinnamon Extract/ trans -Cinnamaldehyde, confirming inclusion complexation. X-ray Diffraction and Differential Scanning Calorimetry results disclosed the amorphous nature of blank and loaded Cyclodextrin Nanosponges. Cinnamon Extract loaded α/β- Cyclodextrin Nanosponges displayed relatively smaller particle size (447–580 nm) compared to trans -Cinnamaldehyde loaded α/β-Cyclodextrin Nanosponges (630–651 nm). SEM illustrated the porous nature of Cyclodextrin Nanosponges, while TEM depicted the spherical outline of Cinnamon extract-loaded-β-Cyclodextrin Nanosponges with an average diameter of 495 nm. Cinnamon Extract loaded Cyclodextrin Nanosponges displayed greater antioxidant activity while trans -Cinnamaldehyde loaded Cyclodextrin Nanosponges exhibited superior antimicrobial activity. Trans -Cinnamaldehyde loaded β Cyclodextrin Nanosponges demonstrated significant inhibition (47.66 ± 0.51 mm) against Pseudomonas aeruginosa while Cinnamon Extract loaded β Cyclodextrin Nanosponges exerted maximum inhibition zone against Staphylococcus aureus (27.66 ± 0.51 mm). The current research is important as it compares the efficacy of a pure, isolated bioactive compound with a mixture of bioactive compounds available in the Cinnamon extract. Further, combining bioactive loaded Cyclodextrin Nanosponges with a suitable biopolymer can aid in developing active packaging solutions in the form of film/coating/sachet for preserving highly perishable foods which can significantly benefit the food packaging industry. [Display omitted] • Cyclodextrin (CD): Crosslinker was fixed in Cyclodextrin Nanosponges (CD-NS). • α/βCD-NS encapsulated Cinnamon bark extract (CE) and trans -Cinnamaldehyde (t -CMA). • βCD-NS exhibited higher encapsulation efficiency for CE and t -CMA than αCD-NS. • The loaded CD-NSs were amorphous in nature with particle size between 440 and 660 nm. • βCD-NS-CE/ t -CMA exhibited significant antioxidant and antibacterial activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• RSM was used to optimize prepration for evening primrose oil nanoemulsions (EPO NEs). • The properties of EPO NEs were dependent on the type of surfactants used. • EPO NEs exhibited nearly Newtonian fluid behavior. • EPO NEs showed high encapsulation efficiency and negligible cytotoxicity. In this study, evening primrose oil (EPO), recognized for its bioactivity and safety, played a pivotal role as a primary component in the production of nanoemulsions (NEs) through a combination of homogenization and ultrasonic nano-emulsification technology. The significance of EPO NEs lies in their potential impact on various aspects of health and well-being. The research aimed to explore the physicochemical properties, encapsulation efficiency, and in vitro biocompatibility of the resulting EPO NEs by employing three distinct surfactants: dioctadecyl dimethylammonium bromide (D+), dihexadecyl phosphate (D−), and saponin (Sn) for stabilization. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the preparation parameters of the NEs. The physicochemical properties of NEs were assessed using various techniques, including dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, fluorescence polarization spectroscopy, and viscometer measurements. The encapsulation efficiency of the NEs was evaluated through the use of quercetin. Furthermore, the in vitro biocompatibility of the NEs was assessed via a cell viability assay. RSM effectively determined the optimal ultrasonication operation parameters, including time and amplitude, to achieve EPO NE with the desired size and distribution. The thermal phase change and intra-particle fluidity of NEs decreased as the oil/surfactant ratio increased and varied with the type of surfactant used. Furthermore, EPO NE exhibited nearly Newtonian fluid characteristics. Most importantly, all NEs demonstrated excellent in vitro biocompatibility and high encapsulation efficiency. In conclusion, the high potential of EPO NEs underscores their pivotal role in advancing drug delivery systems. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Vaccinium myrtillus L. leaves contain bioactive components, such as polyphenols, stilbenes, iridoid glycosides, fatty acids, and fibers. However, polyphenols possess low solubility, stability, and bioavailability, thus the encapsulation of the mentioned active principles in different carriers is necessary. Liposomes are widely used as a carrier for the encapsulation, preservation, and controlled release of polyphenols in various products. Therefore, the aims of the presented research are the development and characterization of V. myrillus leaf extract-loaded liposomes via the determination of encapsulation efficiency, particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, and mobility. EXPERIMENTAL: The liposomes with encapsulated extract were prepared employing the proliposome procedure. Encapsulation efficiency was indirectly calculated by the polyphenol concentration determined in the supernatant. Particle size, PDI, zeta potential, and mobility were measured by the photon correlation spectroscopy in Zetasizer. Every measurement was examined three times at 25°C. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The encapsulation efficiency of polyphenols was >85 %. The liposomes contained only phospholipids resulting in a more rigid membrane providing the prevention of the leakage of the encapsulated polyphenols, as well as a higher encapsulation efficiency. The diameter and PDI of the liposomes were 5408.7±56.4 and 0.249±0.049 nm, respectively confirming that higher liposomal vesicles possessed lower PDI values. The zeta potential and mobility were -5.02±0.25 mV and -0.315±0.016 µmcm/Vs, respectively. Zeta potential possessed negative values that are related to the exposure of the phosphate group lying in an outer plane concerning the choline groups. The mobility of liposomes represents a function of the size, zeta potential, and lipid composition. The liposomal vesicles with lower membrane fluidity also show low mobility. The changes in the mobility of the liposomes were attributed to the membrane fluidity and ability to deform. Additionally, when flavonoids (also presented in V. myrtillus extract) are adsorbed at the surface of the liposomes, it can decrease their mobility. CONCLUSIONS: The beneficial effects of bioactive principles from V. myrtillus leaves on human health and their sensitivity highlight the application of liposomal particles as a carrier for V. myrtillus extract and their potential implementation in foods, functional foods, pharmaceutics, and cosmetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aceclofenac (ACE) is a most commonly used drug for the relief of pain and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis. The mean plasma elimination half-life of ACE is around 4 hrs and, therefore, frequent dosing is required which leads to patient noncompliance. Hence, to reduce the dosing frequency and adverse side effect, sustained release formulation of aceclofenac-loaded silica nanoparticles (ASiNPs) is beneficial to improve the patient noncompliance. Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) were prepared by precipitation method using tetra ethyl ortho silicate (TEOS) as a precursor. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimise the independent variables such as SiNPs and 3-amino-propyl trimethoxysilane (APTMS) concentration, respectively, for dependent variables such as encapsulation efficiency (%EE) by using Design Expert software. The developed ASiNPs were characterized for their physiochemical properties. Results obtained from physiochemical characterisation confirmed the successful incorporation of drug in the SiNPs. The %EE was found to be in the range of 14.64–76.42%. In vitro drug release of ASiNPs in intestinal pH 6.8 shows sustained release up to 15 hrs compared to the pure ACE. From this study, we can conclude that ASiNPs would be able to sustain the drug release, reduced side effects and better patient compliance in combination with tablets and capsule. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Acid leaching process was conducted. • The optimized leaching conditions were determined. • Encapsulation efficiency was defined to describe the filtrate loss. • Shrinking core model expressed by [(1-η)−1/3−1]+1/3ln (1-η)=kt was investigated. Abstract Acid leaching technology was introduced to leach out vanadium from calcification roasting converter vanadium slag. The effects of solid-to-liquid ratio, concentration of acid solution, reaction temperature, reaction time and particle size on leaching efficiency of vanadium were examined. A new defined parameter, encapsulation efficiency, was applied to describe the leachate loss in the filtration process. Results showed that the leaching efficiency of vanadium and encapsulation efficiency had opposite change trends. Under the optimal conditions (solid-to-liquid ratio of 50 g slag/200 mL acid solution, concentration of 0.25 mol/L H 2 SO 4 , reaction temperature of 323 K, reaction time of 60 min, particle size under 75 μm and stirring rate of 500 rpm), the leaching efficiency and encapsulation were 91% and 6%, respectively. The calcium sulphate formed during the leaching process would absorb on the surface of slag and block the pore channel between the particles, and it had negative effect on filtration process. The shrinking core model expressed by [(1-η)−1/3−1] +1/3ln (1-η) = kt was used to describe the leaching kinetics of vanadium in sulphur acid solutions. And the apparent activation energy of vanadium extraction was determined to be 12.45 kJ/mol, which indicated that the leaching process was controlled mainly diffusion of solution through surface layer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was undertaken to optimize the preparation conditions of total flavonoids extract from Dracocephalum Moldavuca composite phospholipid liposome (TFDMCPL) by response surface methodology (RSM) and to investigate the in vitro release (IVR) of TFDMCPL. Method of ethanol injection was adopted to prepare TFDMCPL. The single factor experiments were used for the key experimental factors and their test range. Based on the single factor experiments, with encapsulation efficiency (EE) Size of TFDMCPL and polymey disperse index (PDI) as dependent variable, central composite design was adopted to optimize preparation technology by taking content of phospholipid and content of cholesterol as independent variables, fitting of various mathematical equations were performed using a statisitical software of Design-Expert 8.0.6. Preparation parameters were optimized through response surface plotted by optimum fitting equations, optimized procedure was validated through experimental preparation of TFDMCPL. Optimum preparation technology was as following: phospholipid 505mg and cholesterol 50mg. Under these condition, encapsulation efficiency was 90.2±1.2%, size of TFDMCPL was 115.6±4.3nm, PDI was 0.169±0.015 and Zeta potential was -15.38±0.5. These indicated that TFDMCPL with high entrapping efficiency and small particle size could be prepared by the ethanol injection method. And TFDMCPL were found to enhance the release of drugs more effectively than TFDM based on the in vitro model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthocyanin-loaded liposomes were prepared via an improved supercritical carbon dioxide (SC-CO 2 ) method. The effects of anthocyanin and cholesterol concentrations were studied in terms of the particle size distribution, encapsulation efficiency (EE), bioactive loading, morphology, zeta potential, anthocyanin-phospholipid interaction and in vitro release profiles. Anthocyanin-loaded liposomes had a particle size of 159 ± 0.2 nm, polydispersity index of 0.244 ± 0.02, EE of 50.6% and zeta potential of −40.2 mV. Elevated anthocyanin concentration increased the particle size with reduced uniformity due to enhanced electrostatic interactions and hydrogen bonding between anthocyanin and phospholipids. Liposomes exhibited unilamellar, spherical and near-spherical shapes with increased asymmetry and heterogeneity in the bilayer packing upon increased anthocyanin and cholesterol addition. The anthocyanin release from liposomes was slow (≤35.9%) in the simulated gastric fluid but rapid in the simulated intestinal fluid, induced by the degradation of the vesicles by pancreatin. Anthocyanin-loaded liposomes show great potential for functional food and nutraceutical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research evaluated the microencapsulation of the probiotic, Streptococcus thermophilus , in soy protein isolate (SPI) and sunflower oil (SO) emulsions using electrospraying and freeze-drying. Emulsions were formed with SPI (3–15% w/v), Tween 80® (2% w/v), and SO (5% w/v) after homogenization and ultrasonication. The Emulsion Stability Index (ESI), Emulsifying Ability Index (EAI), ζ-potential, particle size, Polydispersity Index (PDI), conductivity, and viscosity were evaluated to compare the emulsion properties at varying SPI:SO concentrations. After probiotic inclusion, the emulsions were electrosprayed and freeze-dried, and the microcapsules' properties were evaluated (encapsulation efficiency, loss of viability, drying yield, surface hydrophobicity) and characterized (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Laser Scanning Confocal Microscopy, and Differential Scanning Calorimetry). The ζ-potential (−51.51 mV) and other emulsion parameters obtained after ultrasonication indicated that the emulsion stability had improved. The secondary protein structure modifications were revealed by the emulsions' FTIR spectra, with significant increments in the α-helix and β-turn of the ultrasonicated samples compared to SPI. The electrosprayed microcapsules (13% SPI, 5% SO) demonstrated the highest encapsulation efficiency (90.51%) and the lowest loss of viability (1.05 log·CFUmL−1). The probiotics in the microcapsules were validated by the LSCM images and FTIR spectra. The differences in the morphological properties of freeze-dried and electrosprayed particles were observed through SEM. The electrosprayed microcapsules demonstrated the highest intestinal phase survival (77.03%) of probiotics under simulated gastrointestinal conditions, suggesting targeted probiotic delivery with potential for inclusion in nutraceuticals and functional foods. [Display omitted] • Ultrasonication improved the Soy protein isolate-Sunflower oil emulsion properties. • Probiotics dispersed in ultrasonicated emulsions were electrosprayed/freeze-dried. • ES microcapsules had highest encapsulation efficiency (90.51%) and lowest viability loss. • ES microcapsules improved probiotic survival under in-vitro digestion conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Coconut oil (CO) nanoemulsions (NEs) were successfully formulated and stabilized with three types of surfactants. • Physicochemical characteristics of NEs depend on the surfactant type and surfactant/oil ratio (SOR). • Surfactant type influences the encapsulation efficiency and rheological behavior of NEs. • The cytotoxicity of CO NEs is associated with the surfactant type. Background : This study investigated the effects of the three types of surfactants including polyethylene glycol 100-stearate (S-PEG100), hydrogenated soybean lecithin (HL), and dimethyldiocatadecylammonium (DODAB) on the physicochemical characteristics, encapsulation, and in vitro biocompatibility of coconut oil (CO) nanoemulsions (NEs). Methods : Size distribution, zeta-potential, structure, and storage stability of the CO NEs were comprehensively studied. The intra-particle and rheological properties of NEs were assessed by using differential scanning calorimetry, fluorescence polarization analysis, and viscosity measurement. The in vitro biocompatibility and the encapsulation efficiency of CO NEs emulsified with S-PEG100, HL, and DODAB were also evaluated. Significant Findings : The size order was S-PEG100-

Abstract: Objective: To formulate and evaluate in vitro, surface-modified solid lipid microspheres containing halofantrine using lipid matrix formed from goat fat and a phospholipid (P90H). Methods: The model drug, halofantrine in an increasing concentration of 1%, 2%, 3%, 4% and 5% w/w was incorporated into surface-modified solid lipid microspheres formulated by hot homogenization. Effect of drug concentration on the encapsulation efficiency was studied. The dispersion was evaluated using particle size, particle morphology, pH and encapsulation efficiency. The drug formulation with highest encapsulation efficiency was selected and used for the release studies and compared with the release from a commercial dosage form (Halfan® 250 mg tablet, Glaxo-Smithkline, Mayenne France) using simulated gastric fluid (SGF pH 1.2), simulated intestinal fluid (SIF pH 7.2) and phosphate buffer (pH 6.8) as biorelevant media. Results were analyzed statistically and the level of significance was taken to be P < 0.05). Results: Discrete and spherical solid lipid microspheres were produced. The particle size of the dispersion was low (32.48–33.87 μm) with minimal particle growth and high encapsulation efficiencies (86.8%–91.0%) after 3 months. The pH of the microspheres dispersion changed appreciably after 3 months. In vitro release result obtained revealed sustained and controlled drug release from the lipid microspheres compared with the tablet dosage form. Conclusions: Formulation of halofantrine as solid lipid microspheres presents a better alternative to the conventional tablet formulation as the in vitro dissolution of the highly lipophilic halofantrine was highly improved. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Resveratrol is a known anti-oxidant and anti-cancer bioactive. The low bioavailability and poor water solubility of resveratrol is a major barrier that restricts its usage in food applications. To overcome these problems, the study presents micro and nano encapsulation of resveratrol in casein micelles extracted from Himalayan cheese (Churpi). Resveratrol loaded casein microparticles (CS-rm) were obtained using emulsion-freeze drying. Whereas, resveratrol loaded casein nanoparticles (CS-rn) were obtained using ultrasonication. Both were characterized using dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and attenuated total reflectance-fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR). DLS revealed hydrodynamic diameter of 71.24 μm and 387.023 nm and zeta potential of −22.62 and −28.08 mV for CS-rm and CS-rn. FTIR confirmed the characteristic peaks of resveratrol at 965.4, 1380.86, 1586.66 and 1607 cm−1 confirmed successful micro and nanoencapsulation. CS-rm displayed high encapsulation efficiency (52.32%) and swelling power (77.90 at pH 3 and 68.65 at pH 7.5) than CS-rn. Both micro and nanoencapsulation protected resveratrol in gastric conditions, however, CS-rn showed high release of resveratrol then CS-rm in simulated intestinal conditions. The anti-oxidant and anti-cancer activity of resveratrol under simulated gastric and intestinal conditions (SGID) was significantly higher (p ≤ 0.05) for CS-rn, showing that nanoencapsulation improved release and nutraceutical profile of resveratrol. Resveratrol loaded nano and micro casein particles can be used a source of fortified protein supplement in growing food and nutraceutical industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aimed to evaluate the S. edule fruit starch (SS) in combination with whey protein concentrate (WPC) and gum arabic (GA) as wall material for the encapsulation of cinnamon oleoresin by spray-drying. The morphology of SS granules was characterized using SEM, X-ray diffraction pattern, and FTIR spectrum. Dispersions of wall material were prepared using 20 % total solids, and oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions were prepared at a 6:1 ratio (wall material: cinnamon oleoresin) to obtain microcapsules by spray-drying. SEM micrographs showed that SS granules are oval-shaped and X-ray diffraction determined SS shows a C-type crystallinity pattern. FTIR spectrum showed characteristic bands similar to the starch used as wall materials. SEM images of cinnamon oleoresin microcapsules obtained by spray-drying showed that microcapsules were spherical. The combination of SS with GA and WPC reduces the flow and rehydration properties of microcapsules. Ternary combinations showed more synergy in phenolic compound retention and significantly different (p < 0.01) encapsulation efficiency. In conclusion, the physical and chemical properties of microcapsules proved that SS in a ternary combination with the wall materials studied provides greater protection against active lipid agents. • Sechium edule starch showed a C-type X-ray diffraction pattern. • Microcapsules with a particle size of 1–18 μm were obtained by spray drying. • The ternary mixtures showed an encapsulation efficiency of 77 %. • Sechium edule starch have potential for microencapsulation of cinnamon oleoresin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]