Development of Prolamin-Based Composite Nanoparticles for Controlled Release of Sulforaphane

Sulforaphane (SFN) has been documented to possess anticancer properties. However, its application is limited by instability and poor bioavailability, which could be enhanced by colloidal delivery systems. In this study, prolamins from two cereal grains, i.e., proso millet (MP) and corn (CP), were extracted and used to fabricate nanoparticles for SFN via an anti-solvent process. A secondary layer with a complex of sodium caseinate (NaCas)/propylene glycol alginate (PGA) at an equal mass was deposited to further improve the stability of nanoparticles. Results indicated that composite nanoparticles with NaCas/PGA at 0.3% (w/v) exhibited a spherical shape with high encapsulation efficiency (>80%), small size (150 nm), and highly negative ζ potential (-39 mV). SFN in MP compared to that in CP showed a similar but lower releasing rate under simulated in vitro digestion. Therefore, prolamins from both sources are promising plant source delivery materials to improve stability and achieve controlled release of bioactives.