Cyclodextrin encapsulated probiotic strains

Abstract

The present disclosure teaches methods, materials, and structures for encapsulating probiotic microorganisms in a biocompatible encapsulation compound. The encapsulation compound may be a cyclodextrin macrocyclic molecule that has a hollow, cone-shaped, central cavity. Probiotic microorganisms are then encapsulated partially, or completely, inside of the hollow, central cavity of the cyclodextrin molecule to make a cyclodextrin inclusion complex. The resulting encapsulated probiotic assembly provides enhanced stability and bioavailability of the probiotic microorganisms during storage and after ingestion, as well as offering protection against environmental stressors, such as heat, moisture, and oxygen. The sugar-like cyclodextrin encapsulant material may also serve a prebiotic function of supporting beneficial gut flora proliferation and improved probiotic viability in the gastrointestinal tract. The cyclodextrin macrocyclic molecule may be an α-cyclodextrin, β-cyclodextrin, and/or γ-cyclodextrin molecule, and/or combinations thereof. Other biocompatible encapsulation compounds may be used, including polysaccharides, liposomes, alginates, chitosans, gelatins, and polyvinyl alcohols.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.