Enhanced physicochemical stability of ω-3 PUFAs concentrates-loaded nanoliposomes decorated by chitosan/gelatin blend coatings

To enhance the physicochemical stability of omega-3 PUFAs concentrates from fish oil, biopolymer coating based on chitosan (CH) and gelatin (GE) deposited on the surface of nanoliposomes (NLs) has been synthesized and characterized. The mean particle size of surface-decorated nanoliposomes (SDNLs) containing omega-3 PUFAs concentrates was found to be in the range of 209.5-454.3 nm. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy revealed the spherical shape and smooth surface of the nanovesicles. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction observations confirmed that the NLs have been successfully coated by biopolymeric blends. The highest entrapment efficiency of 81.6% was obtained in polymer-stabilized NLs with a concentration ratio of 0.3:0.1 (CH:GE). Differential scanning calorimetry results revealed enhanced thermal stability of vesicles after polymeric blend desorption. Finally, the oxidative stability assays demonstrated that the omega-3 PUFAs concentrates entrapped in SDNLs was protected against oxidation in comparison to the free omega-3 PUFAs concentrates.

Automated summary

A biopolymer coating based on chitosan and gelatin was successfully synthesized and deposited on the surface of nanoliposomes to enhance the physicochemical stability and entrapment efficiency of omega-3 PUFAs concentrates from fish oil. The coated nanoliposomes showed improved thermal stability and protection against oxidation compared to free omega-3 PUFAs concentrates, as confirmed by differential scanning calorimetry and oxidative stability assays.