Whey Protein Isolate-Encapsulated Astaxanthin Nanoemulsion More Effectively Mitigates Skeletal Muscle Atrophy in Dexamethasone-Induced Mice
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Skeletal muscle, as the largest organ in the body and the main protein pool, is crucial for various physiological processes, but atrophy of skeletal muscle can result from glucocorticoids, including dexamethasone, or from aging. Astaxanthin (AST) is a ketocarotenoid with a variety of physiological activities. However, the clinical application of AST is hampered by its strong hydrophobicity, intense off-flavors, and susceptibility to oxidation. METHODS: In this study, we prepared whey protein isolate (WPI)-encapsulated AST nanoemulsion (WPI-AST, W-A) and investigated its alleviating effects on dexamethasone-induced skeletal muscle atrophy. RESULTS: The optimal concentration of astaxanthin was determined to be 30 mg/mL with an oil/water ratio of 1:5. The W-A was a typical oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion with a particle size of about 110 nm. The bioaccessibility of astaxanthin was significantly improved, with the off-flavors of astaxanthin effectively masked. After oral administration, the W-A further ameliorated skeletal muscle atrophy by inhibiting skeletal muscle catabolism, promoting skeletal muscle production, and inhibiting mitochondrial autophagy compared with the same dose of WPI and AST. In addition to this, the W-A further improved the glycometabolism of skeletal muscle by reducing the expression of Foxo3 and increasing the expression of PGC-1α. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, the W-A nanoemulsion demonstrated good therapeutic value in alleviating skeletal muscle atrophy.
Source: Nutrients
DOI: 10.3390/nu17050750
Authors: Yuchen Huan, Han Yue, Yanli Song, Wenmei Zhang, Biqian Wei, Qingjuan Tang
Institutions: Ocean University of China, Tongji University
Language: English
Subfield: Molecular Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,499
Award: G207922561
OpenAlex ID: W4407845330