Bionic cell wall models: Utilizing TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanofibers for fucoxanthin delivery systems

Abstract

Fucoxanthin (FX) has various excellent biological properties but suffers from poor bioavailability. In this work, we build a bionic cell wall model using TEMPO (2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-1-piperidinyloxy)-oxidized cellulose. The bionic cell wall enhances the environmental stability of the liposomes and serves as a pH-responsive mechanism. The coating processes protect the structure of liposomes and fucoxanthin under the acidic conditions of the stomach. The bionic cell wall disperses and releases the fucoxanthin in simulated intestinal fluid (SIF). Overall, the protective and release capabilities highlight the potential of cellulose in a bionic cell wall model and provide diversity for the structural design of carriers for delivering functional bioactive components.