Utilization of Biopolymer-Based Lutein Emulsion as an Effective Delivery System to Improve Lutein Bioavailability in Neonatal Rats

Abstract

Newborns’ eyes and brains are prone to oxidative stress. Lutein has antioxidant properties and is the main component of macular pigment essential for protecting the retina, but has low bioavailability, thereby limiting its potential as a nutritional supplement. Oil-in-water emulsions have been used as lutein delivery systems. In particular, octenylsuccinated (OS) starch is a biopolymer-derived emulsifier safe to use in infant foods, while exhibiting superior emulsifying capacity. This study determined the effects of an OS starch-stabilized lutein emulsion on lutein bioavailability in Sprague-Dawley neonatal rats. In an acute study, 10-day-old pups received a single oral dose of free lutein or lutein emulsion, with subsequent blood sampling over 24 h to analyze pharmacokinetics. The lutein emulsion group had a 2.12- and 1.91-fold higher maximum serum lutein concentration and area under the curve, respectively, compared to the free lutein group. In two daily dosing studies, oral lutein was given from postnatal day 5 to 18. Blood and tissue lutein concentrations were measured. The results indicated that the daily intake of lutein emulsion led to a higher lutein concentration in circulation and key tissues compared to free lutein. The OS starch-stabilized emulsion could be an effective and safe lutein delivery system for newborns.

The Application of Natural Carotenoids in Multiple Fields and Their Encapsulation Technology: A Review

“…Numerous investigations have substantiated the efficacy of antioxidant vitamins, namely vitamin C, vitamin E, and β-carotene, in augmenting pulmonary function [ 34 ]. Additionally, a considerable body of research has established a positive correlation between β-carotene consumption and respiratory health.…”

“…A positive correlation is observed between blood carotenoid levels and respiratory function indices forced expiratory volume 1 s (FEV1%) and forced vital capacity (FVC%) [ 37 ], indicating that the consumption of carotenoid-rich foods may confer benefits by improving lung function among the elderly population. Additionally, research has shown that a decrease of one standard deviation in lutein/zeaxanthin levels is associated with a decline in FEV1% and FVC% equivalent to the effects of aging by 1–2 years [ 34 ]. It should be noted that no direct correlation between dietary carotenoids and lung function has been definitively established, except for β-carotene.…”

“…The substantial mortality rate, potent infectivi and absence of specific drug interventions have instilled widespread fear and resulted significant economic repercussions. In contrast, asthma remains the most prevale chronic ailment, affecting approximately 334 million individuals worldwide, and with Numerous investigations have substantiated the efficacy of antioxidant vitamins, namely vitamin C, vitamin E, and β-carotene, in augmenting pulmonary function [34]. Additionally, a considerable body of research has established a positive correlation between β-carotene consumption and respiratory health.…”