Emerging plant proteins as nanocarriers of bioactive compounds

The high prevalence of chronic illnesses, including cancer, diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular diseases has become a growing concern for modern society. Recently, various bioactive compounds (bioactives) are shown to have a diversity of health-beneficial impacts on a wide range of disorders. But the application of these bioactives in food and pharmaceutical formulations is limited due to their poor water solubility and low bioaccessibility/ bioavailability. Plant proteins are green alternatives for designing biopolymeric nanoparticles as appropriate nanocarriers thanks to their amphiphilic nature compatible with many bioactives and unique functional prop-erties. Recently, emerging plant proteins (EPPs) are employed as nanocarriers for protection and targeted de-livery of bioactives and also improving their stability and shelf-life. EPPs could enhance the solubility, stability, and bioavailability of bioactives by different types of delivery systems. In addition, the use of EPPs in combi-nation with other biopolymers like polysaccharides was found to make a favorable wall material for food bio-actives. This review article covers the various sources and importance of EPPs along with different encapsulation techniques of bioactives. Characterization of EPPs for encapsulation is also investigated. Furthermore, the focus is on the application of EPPs as nanocarriers for food bioactives.

Automated summary

The high prevalence of chronic illnesses has become a concern, and bioactive compounds have shown potential as health-enhancing substances. However, their application is limited due to solubility and bioavailability issues. Plant proteins have emerged as green alternatives for designing nanocarriers, offering compatibility with bioactives and unique functional properties. Recent studies have demonstrated the use of emerging plant proteins as nanocarriers for protection and delivery of bioactives. These proteins can improve solubility, stability, and bioavailability, especially when combined with other biopolymers. This review covers the sources and importance of plant proteins, encapsulation techniques, and their application as nanocarriers for food bioactives.