Nanotechnology for Polyphenol Delivery and Applications

Polyphenols, a varied group of plant-based phenolic substances, have received significant scientific interest due to their extensive range of biological functions, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. These active compounds play an essential role in supporting human health by reducing oxidative stress and lowering the likelihood of chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Nevertheless, their medical and nutritional use is often restricted by inherent issues like low water solubility, chemical fragility, and poor absorption in the digestive system. To tackle these drawbacks, recent innovations in nanotechnology have enabled the creation of nanocarrier systems designed to improve the solubility, durability, and biological effectiveness of polyphenols. This chapter delves into the use of biopolymer-based nanocarriers, namely, nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, nanoliposomes, micelles, and nanofibers, for the effective encapsulation and protection of polyphenols, enabling their targeted and controlled release. These delivery vehicles, derived from natural polymers, including proteins, polysaccharides, and lipids, offer distinct physicochemical properties tailored to specific therapeutic and nutraceutical applications. Emphasis is placed on protein- and polysaccharide-based nanoformulations, highlighting the encapsulation of key polyphenols, such as quercetin, curcumin, catechin, and resveratrol.