Zein-pectin composite nanoparticles as an efficient hyperoside delivery system: Fabrication, characterization, and in vitro release property

Hyperoside (Hyp) exhibits a range of bioactive properties, but its application is restrained due to its poor water solubility and low oral bioavailability. In this study, a novel Hyp delivery system based on zein and pectin was prepared by an anti-solvent precipitation method to delivery of Hyp. The results showed that 91% optimized encapsulation efficiency of Hyp-zein/pectin composite nanoparticles (Hyp-Z/P NPs). Hyp-Z/P NPs formed core-shell spherical structures with a particle size of about 270 nm and zeta potential of −32.4 mV. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed that hydrogen bonding, electrostatic interaction, and hydrophobic effects were the main forces driving the formation of Hyp-Z/P NPs. X-ray diffraction analyses indicated that Hyp was encapsulated in an amorphous form. Freeze-dried Hyp-Z/P NPs displayed good redispersibility in aqueous solution. The DPPH• scavenging ability and ABTS•+ scavenging ability of Hyp-Z/P NPs were 3-fold and 1.8-fold higher than that of free Hyp, respectively. Furthermore, compared to Hyp-loaded zein nanoparticles, Hyp-Z/P NPs showed better stability and sustained release of Hyp under simulated gastrointestinal conditions. Therefore, Hyp-Z/P NPs can be used as an effective oral delivery system for Hyp, which may be particularly useful for expanding the applications of Hyp in functional foods, beverages, and pharmaceutical products.