A Co-Encapsulation of Coenzyme Q10 and Curcumin in Liposomes Coated with Chitosan (Q10-Cur-Lip-Chi) with Enhanced Solubility and Stability for Good Release Performance and Antioxidative Activity

Abstract

Background: Coenzyme Q10 (Q10) is a powerful lipophilic antioxidant with poor solubility in aqueous media. Curcumin (Cur) is a natural polyphenolic phytochemical molecule with poor aqueous solubility. Liposome is an improved administration of drugs yet with some drawbacks, such as low bioavailability, poor water solubility. It’s found biocompatible and permeable for nutraceutical delivery. Chitosan, a hydrophilic polymer, is often used as a polymer coating for its good biocompatible and biodegradable properties, and its relatively low toxicity level. Methods: Q10 and Cur co-loaded liposomes coated with chitosan (Q10-Cur-Lip-Chi) was constructed. The co-encapsulation of Q10 and Cur in liposomes coated with chitosan was verified by TEM, DLS, DSC, FT-IR, and XRPD. The release profile and antioxidant activity of Q10-Cur-Lip-Chi were accessed. Results: The particle size of Q10-Cur-Lip-Chi was about 1440 nm with narrow particle distribution with satisfying encapsulation efficiency (EE) above 98% for Q10 and 25% for Cur. Q10-Cur-Lip-Chi showed higher solubility and better pH resistance with 98.5% of Q10 and Cur retention at pH 7.0 - 9.0. Besides, Q10-Cur-Lip showed great salt stability with vesicle size change Conclusion: Q10-Cur-Lip-Chi improves the solubility and stability of poorly water-soluble Q10 and Cur for good release performance and antioxidative activity.