Improving the bioaccessibility and in vitro absorption of 5-demethylnobiletin from chenpi by se-enriched peanut protein nanoparticles-stabilized pickering emulsion

5-demethylnobiletin (5DN) in aged citrus peel (chenpi) is a unique polymethoxyflavone that has been shown to exhibit superior anti-cancer effects, but its low water-solubility and poor oral bioavailability may limit its application as a potent nutraceutical. In this study, Se-enriched peanut protein nanoparticles-stabilized Pickering emulsions (PPEs) were used to encapsulate 5DN to enhance its bioaccessibility, cellular uptake and transport rate. The preparation of PPEs, and their digestion profiles in gastrointestinal tract, cell uptake and transport were investigated. Results showed that the bioaccessibility of 5DN was significantly higher within PPEs (18.3%) than in bulk oil (9.2%). Besides, PPEs-encapsulated 5DN has a greater apical-to-basolateral (AP-BL) transport rate (26.9 × 10−6 cm s−1) than 5DN (21.7 × 10−6 cm s−1). It was proved PPEs may promote the bioavailability of 5DN, and this type of delivery system may be useful for the application of 5DN and other crystalline nutraceuticals in functional foods and beverages.