Preparation and stability evaluation of flexible nanoliposomes co-encapsulated with black wolfberry anthocyanins and EGCG

Abstract

Anthocyanins and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) are natural antioxidants, which have broad application prospects in functional foods and bioactive delivery systems. However, their inherent instability, especially the sensitivity to light, heat, and oxidative degradation, limits their practical applications. This study addressed these challenges by encapsulating anthocyanins from black wolfberry (BWA) and EGCG in flexible nanoliposomes (FL), aiming to improve both stability and bioavailability. The preparation process was optimized, and the safety of the resulting formulations was evaluated through animal testing to provide a reference for further research and development. Our results demonstrated that FLs significantly improved the encapsulation efficiency and storage stability of the bioactive substances compared to conventional liposomes (CL). After 10 weeks of storage at 25 °C in a light-protected environment, the retention rates of BWA and EGCG in FL were 62.47% and 60.01%, respectively, with an average retention rate 1.73 times higher than those in CL. Furthermore, FL exhibited a pronounced slow-release effect, with no acute percutaneous toxicity, underscoring their potential for safe applications. These findings suggest that the BWA-EGCG flexible nanoliposome can effectively enhance the stability and bioavailability of these antioxidants, supporting their application in food-based formulations and other bioactive delivery systems. • Optimized flexible nanoliposomes co-encapsulate BWA and EGCG effectively. • Enhanced stability of BWA and EGCG with flexible nanoliposome encapsulation. • Flexible nanoliposomes retain BWA and EGCG 1.73 times more than conventional ones. • Flexible nanoliposomes show controlled release and extended stability in storage. • Flexible nanoliposomes achieve higher skin permeation and retention.

Topics & Concepts