Enzymatic cyclodextrin synthesis-tributyrin inclusion complex: Properties, structural characterization and release behaviors in vitro

Tributyrin, a good butyric acid donor, has the potential to prevent colon cancer. The cyclodextrin-tributyrin inclusion complexes synthesized by enzymatic methods have the advantages of low costs and simple technology. However, the structure as well as compositions of the inclusion complexes and release behaviors of inclusion guest molecules have not been elucidated. We evaluated the properties and structure of the enzymatic cyclodextrin synthesis-tributyrin inclusion complex (ECT). In vitro release behaviors of inclusion complexes were investigated and kinetic simulation performed. The ECT exhibited a double-layer encapsulation structure while the carrier was mainly composed of three kinds of cyclodextrins and macrodextrins, among which the levels of beta-CD were higher. The storage experiment revealed that the encapsulation complex had a good stability. Kinetic simulation showed that ECT release in vitro conforms to the Hixson-Crowell model. These findings imply that ECT could effectively pass through the stomach and tributyrin release mainly occurred in the large intestines. Therefore, ECT can effectively improve tributyrin bioavailability, which provides a basis for in vivo ECT applications.

Automated summary

The cyclodextrin-tributyrin inclusion complexes synthesized by enzymatic methods exhibit good stability and a double-layer encapsulation structure mainly composed of beta-CD. Kinetic simulation shows that the release of tributyrin in vitro conforms to the Hixson-Crowell model, indicating that it mainly occurs in the large intestines. This provides a basis for in vivo applications of the inclusion complex.