Non-Covalent Complexes of Plant-Based Proteins-Polysaccharides and Their Applications to Stabilize the Delivery Systems for Bioactive Compounds

Abstract

The growing demand for natural and sustainable delivery systems in food and pharmaceutical applications has led to increased interest in plant-based protein and polysaccharide complexes, formed through non-covalent interactions. This study focuses on the application of non-covalent complexes of plant-based proteins, polysaccharides, and polyphenols for stabilizing delivery systems such as emulsions, nanoparticles, microcapsules, and hydrogels. This review highlights the factors that influence the formation and stability of these non-covalent complexes, including pH, ionic strength, molecular weight, and functional group availability. In addition, the study explores how these complexes can enhance the bioavailability, stability, and controlled release of bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, vitamins, and peptides while ensuring biocompatibility and low immunogenicity. These biopolymeric complexes, stabilized by electrostatic, hydrophobic, hydrogen bonding, and steric exclusion forces, provide a versatile approach to encapsulating and releasing bioactive compounds, offering several advantages over traditional covalent systems. This study serves as a valuable resource for the development of advanced, sustainable, efficient, safe, and natural delivery systems for bioactive compounds.