Silk Fibroin Nanoparticles (SFNs) for nanoencapsulation of bioactive molecules

Abstract

Silk Fibroin Nanoparticles (SFNs) have become a reliable and effective biomaterial for nanoencapsulation in several fields such as food, biocosmetics, and medical products due to their physicochemical characteristics. Recently, it has also been developed for application in biomaterials and regenerative medicine, also for cellular nanoencapsulation, and drug delivery systems. Silk fibroin is a natural biomaterial relatively not expensive, biocompatible, eco-friendly, and non-toxic FDA-approved protein derived from the Bombyx mori silkworm cocoon. Fibroin has recently been investigated in the drug field carrier for controlled release. Their application has also become widespread in regenerating therapy as a support for regenerating tissues, as well as in nanomedicine. Furthermore, SFNs have been studied as a carrier for single bioactive molecules such as resveratrol, quercetin, or curcumin for volatile compounds, and for vegetal oils in the form of emulsions. The nanoencapsulation of bioactive compounds in a biopolymer of silk fibroin can be efficiently protected from harmful environmental agents like light, oxygen, or water. The present review reveals that silk fibroin nanoparticles constitute a useful biomaterial to protect, stabilize, and deliver bioactive components. This is a promising combination in safety food, biocosmetic products, nanomedicine, and healthcare.