Development of Currant-Loaded Nanoparticles and Phytosomes for Enhanced Antioxidant Delivery

Abstract

This study reports the formulation and evaluation of two nano-delivery systems – currant-derived polyphenol-loaded polymeric nanoparticles and phytosome complexes – designed to enhance antioxidant delivery. Currant (Ribes spp.) extracts, rich in anthocyanins and other polyphenols, were encapsulated into biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles (NP) and phosphatidylcholine-based phytosomes. Both formulations were characterized for particle size, polydispersity, zeta potential, and encapsulation efficiency. In vitro assays (DPPH, ABTS) demonstrated that both systems preserved and, in some cases, enhanced the radical-scavenging activity of currant antioxidants. Release studies showed a sustained release profile for NP versus a more rapid release from phytosomes (Figure 1). Simulated in vivo bioavailability testing (rodent plasma levels) suggested that both systems significantly improved anthocyanin stability and absorption relative to free extract. Importantly, the novel currant-phytosome showed comparable antioxidant efficacy to the NP system while offering a simpler formulation approach and high entrapment of water-soluble anthocyanins. These findings highlight the potential of currant-based nanoformulations for nutraceutical and pharmaceutical antioxidant delivery.