Chapter 17: Self-assembled Nanoparticle-based Systems

Self-assembled nanoparticles are promising carriers for food delivery applications due to their large specific surface area, good dispersibility, biocompatibility, bioavailability, high cell absorption rates and environmental friendliness. This chapter summarizes the latest information on self-assembled nanoparticles, including composition and structures, physicochemical properties, and preparation and modification methods. Besides, this chapter also discusses the advantages and disadvantages of self-assembled nanoparticles and their applications in the delivery of active substances. Self-assembled nanoparticle systems can be endowed with different functional properties by controlling their physicochemical properties, and then used to deliver different lipophilic nutrients. The functional properties of nanoparticles can be optimized by various preparation methods and non-covalent and covalent modifications. Future research may focus on the design of nanoparticles loaded with functional ingredients in a multidisciplinary manner to achieve co-encapsulation, co-protection and precise targeted delivery. Through technical analysis at the cellular and molecular levels, the delivery mechanism and the site of action of nanoparticles in the human body will be evaluated in depth.