Polysaccharide- and protein-based carriers as a key strategy for obtaining microencapsulated chlorophyll-rich extracts: UPLC-PDA/ESI-QToF-MS characterization and evaluation of antidiabetic potential

Abstract

Chlorophylls are bioactive compounds with potential health benefits. This study aimed to investigate the physicochemical properties and biological activity of chlorophyll-rich microcapsules, focusing on the influence of carrier type and spray drying temperature on chlorophyll stability and enzyme inhibition capacity. The research hypothesis assumed that these factors significantly affect both the retention of bioactive compounds and the health-promoting properties of the microcapsules, particularly their ability to inhibit enzymes involved in type 2 diabetes. Microcapsules were prepared using various polysaccharide (Nutriose®, inulin, maltodextrin) and protein (soy and pea protein isolates) carriers and three inlet temperatures (160, 170, 180 °C). Compounds including carotenoids, chlorophylls, pheophytins, and pheophorbides were identified and quantified via UPLC-PDA/ESI-QToF-MS. The antidiabetic potential was evaluated by in vitro inhibition of α-amylase, α-glucosidase, β-glucosidase, and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4). Carrier selection had a greater impact than drying temperature, with soy protein isolate and inulin ensuring the highest chlorophyll retention and stability. Protein-based microcapsules showed the strongest DPP-4 and α-amylase inhibition, indicating potential for glycemic control. These findings advance microencapsulation strategies for chlorophyll-rich extracts in functional food and pharmaceutical applications.