The nanomicelles consisting of lotus root amylopectin and quinoa protein: Construction and encapsulation for quercetin

To improve the water solubility, stability and bioavailability of quercetin, the quercetin (Que)-quinoa protein (QP)-lotus root amylopectin (LRA) nanomicelles (Que-QP-LRA) were constructed via self-assembly in the present study. Results showed that a uniform and stable Que-QP-LRA nanomicelles was formed when the mass ratio of Que/QP/LRA was 2.5:6:24. Under this condition, the particle size, polydispersity index and zeta potential of the nanomicelles were 157.3 nm, 0.289 and -16.7 mV, respectively. Transmission electron microscopy exhibited that the Que-QP-LRA nanomicelles have a core-shell structure. The analysis of molecular interaction indicated that hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interaction were the main driving forces to maintain stable structure of Que-QP-LRA nanomicelles. Additionally, the in vitro simulated digestion experiments suggested that Que-QP-LRA nanomicelles can enhance the stability of quercetin in the stomach and enable it to be sustained release in the intestine. These results suggested that Que-QP-LRA nanomicelles were beneficial for improving the bioavailability of quercetin.