Encapsulation of coenzyme Q10 in Ferula asafoetida and almond gums: Characterization, release behavior and bioaccessibility

Abstract

The aim of this investigation was encapsulation of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) in Ferula asafoetida gum (FAFG) and almond gum (AlG) with different ratios. In addition to evaluating the release profile, their bioaccessibility was determined and the capsule with the highest value was considered as the optimal sample for characterization by analytical instruments. The toxicity against normal and cancer cells and antioxidant activity of the selected encapsulated CoQ10 were evaluated. The highest bioaccessibility belonged to the coenzyme encapsulated by two gums in equal proportions. The zeta potential of the complex indicated its stability. The FTIR results provided evidence of interactions between the components. Based on XRD results, the loaded gums showed peaks that were not present in the unloaded counterparts and were only observed in the CoQ10 graph, confirming successful encapsulation. Encapsulated CoQ10 showed improvement in thermal stability due to the protective effects of the wall materials. In toxicity evaluation against 4T1 cell line, IC50 on a net CoQ10 weight basis in encapsulated form was lower than that of its free counterpart, implying increased cytotoxicity. Encapsulation of CoQ10 resulted in a 1.7-fold increase in antioxidant activity. The present study highlighted the efficacy of these gums as carrier. This finding is significant for various sectors, including food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.