CHAPS-involved chitooligosaccharide glycosylation of ferritin cage for encapsulation of bioactive molecule by a mild process

Abstract

Ferritin can serve as an ideal nanocarrier for various bioactive molecules due to its modifiable outer surface and inherent inner cavity. Further, its structure and properties can be influenced by chemical interferences. This study aimed to elucidate the effect of 3-[(3-cholamidopropyl) dimethylammonio]-1-propanesulfonate (CHAPS) on the formation of ferritin-chitooligosaccharide complex and the epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)-encapsulated glycosylated ferritin. Chitooligosaccharide was bound to ferritin pretreated with CHAPS using a transglutaminase-catalyzed reaction. The prepared glycosylated ferritin had improved thermal and digestive stability. Also, EGCG was successfully encapsulated in glycosylated ferritin using a CHAPS-mediated approach without requiring acid/alkaline treatment, with an encapsulation rate of 15.316 % (w/w). The encapsulated EGCG displayed enhanced stability under thermal and light treatments. It also showed a more sustained-release profile compared with the free EGCG. This study highlights the significance of CHAPS and provides a mild and efficient method for ferritin cages as nanocarriers to stabilize food bioactive components.

Keywords: CHAPS; Channel; Chitooligosaccharide; Ferritin cage; Nanocarrier.