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Strategies to encapsulate natural extracts in lipid-based nanocarriers
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1  REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Rua Dr António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal.
2  Universidade de Vigo, Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Department of Analytical Chemistry and Food Science, Faculty of Science, E32004 Ourense, Spain.
3  Centro de Investigação de Montanha (CIMO), Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolonia, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal.
Academic Editor: Manoj Gupta

Abstract:

Numerous plant species possess bioactive properties, with algae emerging as particularly noteworthy due to their distinctive characteristics that pique the interest of diverse industries. For instance, the pharmaceutical industry is greatly interested in features like neuroprotective, anti-glycemic, and cytotoxic qualities found in some algal species. Nonetheless, it is imperative to devise efficient systems capable of effectively releasing bioactive compounds present in these extracts. In this regard, nanoparticles have garnered considerable attention across various fields, particularly in drug delivery applications.

Lipid-based nanoparticles have emerged as a promising solution, offering numerous advantages. These nanoparticles exhibit high biocompatibility and biodegradability, making them suitable for use in biological systems. Additionally, they possess the ability to encapsulate both hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs, thereby expanding their versatility. One remarkable attribute of lipid-based nanoparticles is their capability to traverse the blood-brain barrier, a crucial physical barrier responsible for regulating the entry of chemicals into the brain and maintaining central nervous system homeostasis. Overcoming this barrier presents a significant challenge in the treatment of central nervous system disorders.

Therefore, this study aims to provide an overview of the latest advancements in the nanoencapsulation of natural extracts using lipid-based vesicular delivery systems. The investigation into lipid-based nanoparticles as carriers for bioactive substances holds great promise in developing effective therapies for various ailments, particularly those affecting the central nervous system.

Keywords: Nanocarries, phytosomes, bioactive substances
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