Study on the Preparation, Characterization, and Stability of Freeze-Dried Curcumin-Loaded Cochleates

Abstract

Curcumin (CUR), a polyphenolic substance extracted from plants, has extensive pharmacological activities. However, CUR is difficult to be absorbed in the body due to its poor stability and low solubility. Studies have found that cochleates can be used as a new delivery system to encapsulate bioactive agents for the purpose of improving its stability and bioavailability. In this study, thin-film dispersion and trapping methods were used to prepare curcumin-loaded cochleates (CUR-Cochs). Then CUR-Cochs were characterized and the encapsulation efficiency was determined by HPLC. In addition, the freeze-drying process of CUR-Cochs was studied and related characterization was performed. CCK-8 assay was used to detect the cytotoxicity of cochleates carrier. Additionally, H2O2-induced cellular oxidative damage model were used to evaluate its antioxidant capacity. The results showed that the structure of CUR-Cochs was a spiral cylinder with an average particle size of 463.8 nm and zeta potential of −15.47 mV. The encapsulation efficiency was the highest (83.66 ± 0.8)% with 1:50 CUR-to-lipid mass ratio. In vitro results showed that cochleates had negligible cytotoxicity and owned antioxidant capacity, which provided the possibility for their applications in food and medicine. In general, the method herein might be a promising method to encapsulate CUR for further use as a bioactive agent in functional foods.

Regulating Reactive Oxygen Species in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Insights into Cell Signaling Pathways and Nano-Particles as Carriers

“…In addition to their function in cell signaling pathways, ROS can control how cells behave [38]. For instance, too much ROS can result in DNA deterioration, protein malfunction, and lipid peroxidation, all of which can eventually cause cell death [40]. Additionally, knowing the regulatory mechanisms that regulate cells, ROS in particular locations within the cell is essential for figuring out their role in cell signaling [41].…”

Preparation of curcumin-loaded cochleates: characterisation, stability and antioxidant properties

“…However, it was suggested that the CUR-Cochs provided better stability than the CUR-Lipos in some harsh environments during the process and application. 35,39 3.4.5. Determination of the levels of MDA, LDH and SOD in cells.…”

“…The cell uptake efficiency as well as the mechanism of antioxidant were also investigated. 35 Hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) was used to induce NIH3T3 cell damage, and an in vitro cell oxidative damage model was established. Then, the protective effect and related mechanisms of CUR-Cochs on NIH3T3 oxidative damage were explored.…”