Optimization of preparation process and molecular characterization of limonin-albumin nanoparticles using response surface methodology

Abstract

[Objective] The construction of limonin-albumin nanoparticles provides a theoretical basis for the further application of limonin. [Methods] Limonin-albumin nanoparticles were prepared by desolvation-chemical crosslinking method using bovine serum albumin as nanocarriers. The optimal preparation process was determined by single factor experiment and response surface test with embedding rate as index, and the nanoparticles were characterized. [Results] When the amount of bovine serum albumin was 64 mg, the amount of lemon bitter was 4 mg, the specific volume ratio of alcohol to water was 5∶1, and the amount of crosslinker was 125 μL, the average particle size and polydispersion index of limonin nanoparticles were (152.2±0.5) nm and 0.196±0.026 respectively. The embedding efficiency was (79.21±0.36)%. The limonin-albumin nanoparticles observed under low-pressure transmission electron microscopy showed a spherical shape. Infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction results showed that limonin was successfully encapsulated in albumin in an amorphous or disordered state. The limonin-albumin nanoparticle suspension has good storage stability. [Conclusion] The limonin-albumin nanoparticles prepared by desolvation-chemical crosslinking method had good storage stability.

Keywords

• limonin
• bovine serum albumin
• nanoparticles
• stability