Chapter 12: Phytoglycogen-based Systems

Phytoglycogen (PG) is a natural amylopectin-like dendritic nanoparticle primarily biosynthesized by sugary 1 (su1) mutant grains that lack debranching enzymes (DBEs). Purified PG is obtained from su1 grains with easy, low-cost, and straightforward methods. PG nanoparticles possess excellent physicochemical properties and remarkable features, including water solubility, low viscosity, and biodegradability. Due to their unique hyperbranched structure, PG nanoparticles can encapsulate numerous hydrophobic bioactive compounds to improve their solubility, physicochemical stability, bioavailability, and bioactivity. The interactions between PG nanoparticles and the encapsulated bioactive compounds have been well understood, which is beneficial for designing tailor-made PG-based colloidal systems. Hence, PG nanoparticles have great potential as nanocarriers in oral delivery systems. In this chapter, detailed information about biosynthesis, extraction approaches, molecular characteristics, physicochemical properties, surface modification, and applications of PG is presented, which provides some new insights into PG nanoparticles for use in food nutrition, cosmetic, and biopharmaceutical industries.