Encapsulation of polyphenols in protein-based nanoparticles: Preparation, properties, and applications

Abstract

Polyphenols have a variety of physiological activities, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, their applications are often limited because due to the instability of polyphenols. Encapsulation technologies can be employed to overcome these problems and increase the utilization of polyphenols. In this article, the utilization of protein-based nanoparticles for encapsulating polyphenols is reviewed due to their good biocompatibility, biodegradability, and functional attributes. Initially, the various kinds of animal and plant proteins available for forming protein nanoparticles are discussed, as well as the fabrication methods that can be used to assemble these nanoparticles. The molecular interaction mechanisms between proteins and polyphenols are then summarized. Applications of protein-based nanoparticles for encapsulating polyphenols are then discussed, including as nutrient delivery systems, in food packaging materials, and in the creation of functional foods. Finally, areas where further research is need on the development, characterization, and application of protein-based polyphenol-loaded nanoparticles are highlighted.

Graphical Abstract

Keywords:

• Plant polyphenols
• protein-based nanoparticles
• preparation method
• stabilization
• mechanism of action
• plant-based foods

Acknowledgments

Thanks to the medical staff who worked on the front line during the COVID-19 pandemic and the editors and reviewers who reviewed our work.

Disclosure statement

No conflicts of interest are declared for any of the authors.

Additional information

Funding

This study was financially supported by Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province – China (No. BK20200617), National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 32101990), National Key Research and Development Program of China – China (No. 2022YFD2100602), and the Collaborative Innovation Center of Food Safety and Quality Control in Jiangsu Province, Jiangnan University (2022-1-1).