Summary: | In this study, the ability of zein nanospheres (NS) and zein nanocapsules containing wheat germ oil (NC) to
enhance the bioavailability and efficacy of quercetin was evaluated. Both types of nanocarriers had similar
physico-chemical properties, including size (between 230 and 250 nm), spherical shape, negative zeta potential,
and surface hydrophobicity. However, NS displayed a higher ability than NC to interact with the intestinal
epithelium, as evidenced by an oral biodistribution study in rats. Moreover, both types of nanocarriers offered
similar loading efficiencies and release profiles in simulated fluids. In C. elegans, the encapsulation of quercetin in
nanospheres (Q-NS) was found to be two twice more effective than the free form of quercetin in reducing lipid
accumulation. For nanocapsules, the presence of wheat germ oil significantly increased the storage of lipids in
C. elegans; although the incorporation of quercetin (Q-NC) significantly counteracted the presence of the oil.
Finally, nanoparticles improved the oral absorption of quercetin in Wistar rats, offering a relative oral
bioavailability of 26% and 57% for Q-NS and Q-NC, respectively, compared to a 5% for the control formulation.
Overall, the study suggests that zein nanocarriers, particularly nanospheres, could be useful in improving the
bioavailability and efficacy of quercetin.
|