Dr Wang Yi (first from left) and Dr Wong Ka-hing (second from left) and their research team member
Principal Investigators: Dr Wang Yi and Dr Wong Ka-hing, Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology
Capsules are commonly made of synthetic polymers or animal derived gelatin, which are of great safety and health concern. PolyU researchers have thus developed a novel food-grade capsule that ensures drug safety for human health.
This capsule is prepared using zein – a major corn protein, and pectin – a gel-forming polysaccharide obtained from most citrus fruits. The researchers took advantage of the unique physicochemical properties of the two materials to specially design the capsule, in which the zein acts as a water barrier to protect the pectin from swelling, while the pectin protects the zein from intestinal digestion. By varying the ratio of these two materials and modifying the capsule design, targeted drug delivery to the stomach, small intestine or colon can be achieved.
Food grade capsules
As the capsule materials are food-grade, plant-based and under-utilized by-products, they are safe, fit for vegetarians and inexpensive. This method of capsule preparation can be broadly applied in both the drug and health food industries.
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