Layer-by-layer coated probiotics with chitosan and liposomes demonstrate improved stability and antioxidant properties in vitro

Probiotics are of increasing interest for their potential health benefits, but their survival and adhesion in the harsh gastrointestinal environment remain a concern. This study explored a single-cell encapsulation technique to enhance probiotic survival and adhesion in the gastrointestinal tract. We encapsulated probiotics in curcumin-loaded liposomes, further coated them with polymers using layer-by-layer techniques. The coated probiotics were evaluated for survival in simulated gastrointestinal conditions, adhesion to colonic mucus, and scavenging of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The results showed that multi-layer encapsulation increased probiotic size at the nanoscale, enhancing their survival in simulated gastrointestinal conditions. Upon reaching the colon, the shedding of the coating coincided with probiotic proliferation. Additionally, the coated probiotics exhibited increased adhesion to colonic mucus. Moreover, the coating acted as a protective barrier for effectively scavenging reactive oxygen radicals, ensuring probiotic survival in inflammatory environments. This study combines the synergistic effects of probiotics and curcumin, underscoring the promise of single-cell encapsulation techniques in improving the efficacy of probiotics for addressing colitis-related diseases.