Fabrication of core–shell–shell nanoparticles as co-encapsulation systems via ultrasonic treatment optimization: Encapsulation performance and programmed sequential release analyses

Quercetin (Que) and resveratrol (Res) exhibit significant synergistic effects in multiple health benefits. However, their sites of action in the gastrointestinal tract are not consistent. To achieve the targeted release of Que and Res into the small intestine and colon, respectively, core–shell–shell nanoparticles with programmed sequential release properties were constructed by layer-by-layer assembly technique in this work. Compared with hordein/pectin nanoparticles, hordein/pectin/carboxymethyl chitosan nanoparticles (HPCCS NPs) possessed higher physicochemical stability, encapsulation efficiency and loading capacity. Besides, the existence of CCS layers also significantly improved the co-delivery and programmed sequential release properties. To further optimize the performance of NPs, ultrasonic treatment was innovatively applied to Que/Res–HPCCS NPs. It was found that ultrasonic treatment enhanced the hydrogen bonding, hydrophobic interactions and electrostatic adsorption between molecules, thus improving the physicochemical stability, encapsulation efficiency and loading capacity of NPs. Furthermore, in vitro simulated gastrointestinal studies demonstrated that Que/Res–HPCCS NPs (ultrasound) had better programmed sequential release properties, which further improved the release rates of Res and Que in the small intestine and colon, respectively. This study is of great significance for the development of co-delivery systems with programmed sequential release of nutraceuticals, which can provide novel ideas for the development of related functional foods.