Zein-pectin capsules with Vitamin C encapsulated
Nowadays capsules are commonly made of synthetic polymers or animal derived gelatin, which are of great safety and health concerns. We used zein and pectin to prepare a novel capsule by taking advantages of their unique physicochemical properties.
Zein is a major corn protein, while pectin is a gelforming polysaccharide obtained from most citrus fruits. In this specially designed capsule, zein acts as a water barrier to protect pectin from swelling while pectin protects zein from intestinal digestion. More importantly, by varying the ratio of these two materials and modifying the capsule design, targeted drug delivery either to the stomach, the small intestine or the colon can be achieved.
Special Features and Advantages:
• The capsule materials used are food-grade, plant-based and under-utilised byproducts. Thus, they are safe, fit for vegetarians and inexpensive
• By varying the ratio of the two capsule materials and modifying the capsule design, targeted drug delivery either to the stomach, the small intestine, or the colon can be achieved
• Suitable for both drug and health food industries
• Basically fit for all people including vegetarians
• Gold Medal - 42nd International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva, Switzerland (April 2014)
• Special Merit Award from National Research Council of Thailand (April 2014)
Patent Application No. & Country: 201410130730.3 (PRC)
For further information contact:
Principal Investigator
Dr Yi WANG, Dr Ka-hing WONG
Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology
Contact Details
Institute for Entrepreneurship
Tel: (852) 3400 2929
Fax: (852) 2333 2410
Email: [email protected]
Release curves of zein-pectin capsules with different zeinpectin ratios: Vitamin C was put in the capsules, and its release in simulated gastro and intestinal solutions was measured. The capsules were placed in simulated gastro solutions for the first two hours, and then in simulated intestinal solutions for the next six hours.
Release curve of zein-pectin capsule for colon delivery: Vitamin C was put in the capsules and its release in simulated gastro, intestinal and colon solutions was measured. The capsules were placed in simulated gastro solutions for the first two hours, then in simulated intestinal solutions for the next four hours, and finally in simulated colon solutions for the next 18 hours.
