β-D-glucan as an enteric delivery vehicle for probiotics

Three strains of probiotics L casei, L acidophilus and B. bifidum were encapsulated in beta-D-glucan matrix using freeze drying technique in order to increase survivability during their journey through GI tract. The encapsulation efficiency (%) of beta-D-glucan varied significantly with Bifidobacteria showing low survival rate than Lactobacilli. SEM images revealed a partially collapsed structure with bacterial cells distributed randomly in the matrix. Further absorption band between 1300 and 900 cm(-1) in FTIR spectra shows the presence of bacterial proteins and nucleic acids. For encapsulated beta-D-glucan maximum degree of swelling was observed at pH 3 and 4, whereas when the pH value was increased to 6.5 the encapsulated beta-D-glucan started their disintegration. In vitro release studies revealed that the microcapsules start to dissolve upon entry to the small intestine where it is needed most. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.