Novel formulation of liposomal lutein using nanofiber weaving (NFW) technology: Antioxidant property and in vitro release studies

Abstract Lutein is a xanthophyll carotenoid found in dark green leafy vegetables, fruits and flowers and displays potent biological properties many of which are believed to be related to its antioxidant properties. The application of lutein as a nutraceutical is limited by its low oral bioavailability, likely due to low water-solubility and poor chemical-stability. In this study, liposomal lutein (LL) was formulated in powder form via nanofiber weaving (NFW) technology, commercially known as Zeal Technology, to improve the oral bioavailability of lutein through enhanced chemical stability. LL has a particle size range of 70–200 nm with smooth surface, spherical shaped and an encapsulation efficiency of 85.96±2.41%, loading capacity 7.96±1.18%, and zeta potential -17.8±0.74 mV. The appearance of the identical X-ray diffraction pattern of lutein in LL with lower intensities and the reduced endothermic peak of lutein in LL and the shift to lower temperature indicate the optimum encapsulation of lutein onto the liposomal matrix by NFW technology. Chemical stability of LL was compared with purified lutein. LL illustrated stability while purified lutein was not stable after a 35-day stability study. It was also demonstrated that the antioxidant potential was enhanced by the complex with phospholipids via NFW technology. The release rate of LL was greater than that of purified lutein indicating that LL had a good sustainable release profile. These results reveal that LL could be a promising delivery system for lutein. Preparation of lutein by NFW technology may enable development of nutraceuticals with improved functional properties.