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Research Article

Oil bodies as a potential microencapsulation carrier for astaxanthin stabilisation and safe delivery

, , , , , , , , & show all
Pages 488-500 | Received 30 Jul 2013, Accepted 23 Dec 2013, Published online: 03 Apr 2014
 

Abstract

Astaxanthin (AST) is a valued molecule because of its high antioxidant properties. However, AST is extremely sensitive to oxidation, causing the loss of its bioactive properties. The purposes of this study were to define conditions for microencapsulating AST in oil bodies (OB) from Brassica napus to enhance its oxidative stability, and to test the bioactivity of the microencapsulated AST (AST-M) in cells. Conditions for maximising microencapsulation efficiency (ME) were determined using the Response Surface Methodology, obtaining a high ME (>99%). OB loaded with AST showed a strong electrostatic repulsion in a wide range of pH and ionic strengths. It was found that AST-M exposed to air and light was more stable than free AST. In addition, the protective effect of AST against intracellular ROS production was positively influenced by microencapsulation in OB. These results suggest that OB offer a novel option for stabilising and delivering AST.

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank Dr Magdalena Cuevas for her suggestions.

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