Alginate-based nanocarriers for the delivery and controlled-release of bioactive compounds

Alginate-based nanocarriers are propitious vehicles used for the delivery of bioactive compounds (bioactives). In this area, calcium alginate and sodium alginate are the most promising wall materials because they are nontoxic, comparatively cheap, simple in production, biocompatible and biodegradable. In this review, we have highlighted different alginate-based nanocarriers such as nanoparticles, nanofibers, nanoemulsions, nanocomplexes, and nanohydrogels; also entrapment of different bioactives within alginate nanocarriers and their bioavailability in the gastric environment has been comprehensively discussed. Being biopolymers, alginates can be exploited as emulsifiers/encapsulants for entrapment and delivery of different bioactives such as vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, peptides, essential oils, bioactive oils, polyphenols and carotenoids. Furthermore, the use of alginate-based nanocarriers in combination with other polysaccharides/emulsifiers was recognized as the most effective and favorable approach for the protection, delivery and sustained release of bioactives.

Automated summary

Alginate-based nanocarriers have great potential in the delivery of bioactive compounds. Calcium alginate and sodium alginate, as the most promising wall materials, are non-toxic, relatively cheap, simple to produce, and biocompatible and biodegradable. The review discusses different alginate-based nanocarriers and their entrapment of bioactives, as well as their bioavailability in the gastric environment. Alginate-based nanocarriers can be used as emulsifiers/encapsulants for various bioactives, including vitamins, minerals, peptides, essential oils, and carotenoids. The combination of alginate-based nanocarriers with other polysaccharides/emulsifiers is recognized as the most effective approach for the protection, delivery, and sustained release of bioactives.