Nano- and microdelivery systems for marine bioactive lipids

Mar Drugs. 2014 Dec 17;12(12):6014-27. doi: 10.3390/md12126014.

Abstract

There is an increasing body of evidence of the positive impact of several marine lipids on human health. These compounds, which include ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, have been shown to improve blood lipid profiles and exert anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective effects. The high instability of these compounds to oxidative deterioration and their hydrophobicity have a drastic impact in their pharmacokinetics. Thus, the bioavailability of these compounds may be affected, resulting in their inability to reach the target sites at effective concentrations. In this regard, micro/nanoparticles can offer a wide range of solutions that can prevent the degradation of targeted molecules, increase their absorption, uptake and bioavailability. In this work we will present the options currently available concerning micro- and nanodelivery systems for marine lipids; with emphasis on micro/nanoparticles; such as micro/nanocapsules and emulsions. A wide range of bottom-up approaches using casein, chitosan, cyclodextrins, among others; will be discussed.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / administration & dosage
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / chemistry
  • Biological Availability
  • Emulsions / administration & dosage
  • Emulsions / chemistry
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3 / administration & dosage
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3 / chemistry
  • Humans
  • Lipids / administration & dosage*
  • Lipids / chemistry*
  • Marine Biology / methods
  • Nanoparticles / administration & dosage*
  • Nanoparticles / chemistry*

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Emulsions
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3
  • Lipids