Recent advances in encapsulation systems for molecules with biotechnological applications

CASTRO GUILLERMO R.; CAUERHFF A.

Tiruvalla

Congreso; International Symposium & Congress on Advances in Herbal Science & Technology; 2011

Mar Athanasios College for Advanced Studies in Tiruvalla

p { margin-bottom: 0.08in; } In las decade, biotechnology advances allowed to isolate several new substances at large scale from their natural sources. However, drastic changes from the natural enviroment reduces biological activities and efficacy of the molecule. Additionally, poor solubility and stacking problems of the molecules decrease their bioavalability in all ways of delivery, producing in some cases high levels of toxicity and undesirable side effects. Formulation of natural substances together with a biocompatible or biodegradable carrier material to form composites or encapsulates has a great significance for pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries. The main advantages of molecular encapsulation are the protection from harsh enviroments, the choice of specific targeting and controlled release kinetic of the molecule. Several matrices were developed and used since the first studies during the 70´s, from synthetic, semi-synthetic and natural ones. However, interation between the carrier and the cargo molecule, and the enviroment should be taken into account to choose the proper matrix. Recent developments in micro- and nano-technologies are allowing to understand the major interactions among matrices and cargos, and the relationaship with environment to be deliver. Highlights in the fields and foods and drugs encapsulation will be revisited.