Khaleghi, Alie, et al. Journal of Magnetism and Magnetic Materials 583 (2023): 171053.
Inulin, a versatile polysaccharide, has been employed in the synthesis of chitosan-linked magnetic nanocarriers for biomedical applications. This functionalized nanocarrier system integrates inulin with Fe₃O₄ magnetic nanoparticles, acetylated choline chloride, and chitosan, enhancing its biocompatibility and potential for targeted drug delivery.
The synthesis involved an initial co-precipitation of Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles, followed by their stabilization in an inulin solution under reflux conditions. Subsequently, an acetylated choline chloride intermediate was synthesized and grafted onto inulin-functionalized magnetic nanoparticles to yield modified magnetic inulin (MMI). Further surface modification was achieved by introducing chitosan, a biopolymer known for its mucoadhesive properties, through controlled acid dissolution and pH adjustment.
This hierarchical functionalization imparts superior dispersibility, stability, and bioadhesion to the nanocarrier, making it an excellent candidate for controlled drug release and targeted therapeutic applications. The combination of magnetic responsiveness and polysaccharide-based biocompatibility enhances its potential in precision medicine, highlighting inulin's role in nanomedicine development.
Joseph, Subin, et al. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules 263 (2024): 130274.
Inulin (INU), a naturally occurring polysaccharide, has emerged as a promising carrier for targeted drug delivery, particularly in colon-related diseases. Its resistance to early-stage digestion allows it to reach the lower gastrointestinal tract intact, making it an ideal candidate for controlled drug release.
In this study, inulin nanoparticles (INU NPs) were synthesized using the ionotropic gelation (IG) method, where calcium chloride served as a crosslinker, and natural honey functioned as a stabilizing agent. A 0.5% w/v solution of inulin, prepared in Milli-Q water with 1% v/v honey, was mixed with a 1.25% w/v calcium chloride solution under continuous magnetic stirring at 1000 rpm for 4 hours. This process facilitated the formation of highly stable, non-aggregatory INU NPs.
The resulting nanoparticles exhibit enhanced structural stability and biocompatibility, crucial for controlled drug release applications. Their ability to navigate the digestive system without premature degradation enables precise drug delivery to the colon, improving therapeutic efficacy while minimizing systemic side effects. This study underscores the potential of inulin-based nanoparticles as a novel, efficient platform for site-specific drug administration in gastrointestinal treatments.
Mi, Y., Zhang, J., Han, X., Tan, W., Miao, Q., Cui, J., ... & Guo, Z. (2021). International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 181, 572-581.
Inulin, a naturally occurring polysaccharide, has gained significant attention as a precursor for functional derivatives with enhanced physicochemical properties. One such derivative, carboxymethyl inulin (CMI), has been synthesized via a controlled carboxymethylation reaction, expanding its applications in biomedicine and materials science.
The synthesis of CMI involved the dispersion of inulin in isopropanol, followed by the addition of sodium hydroxide to activate hydroxyl groups. Subsequently, chloroacetic acid was introduced as the carboxymethylating agent, enabling the formation of CMI through nucleophilic substitution. After a 5-hour reaction at 60 °C, the modified polysaccharide was precipitated using acetone, thoroughly washed, and dried to obtain the final product.
This modification significantly improves the solubility and chelating properties of inulin, making CMI a valuable candidate for biomedical, pharmaceutical, and environmental applications. Its ability to form stable complexes with metal ions enhances its potential as a drug carrier, water treatment agent, and biocompatible excipient. The successful synthesis of CMI highlights inulin's versatility as a functional biopolymer, contributing to the development of novel materials in sustainable chemistry.
Where is inulin commonly found in nature?
Inulin is commonly found in a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs, including wheat, onions, bananas, leeks, artichokes, and asparagus.
How is inulin used for medicinal purposes obtained?
Inulin used for medicine is most commonly obtained by soaking chicory roots in hot water.
What are some of the health benefits associated with the use of inulin?
Inulin is used for high blood fats, including cholesterol and triglycerides, weight loss, constipation, and as a food additive to improve taste.
Can you name one synonym for inulin?
Alantin is a synonym for inulin.
What is the molecular weight of inulin?
The molecular weight of inulin is 504.44.
What is the melting point of inulin?
The melting point of inulin is 176-181 °C.
What is the purity level of inulin?
The purity level of inulin is 95%+.
What is the density of inulin?
The density of inulin is 1.35 g/cm³.
What is the appearance of inulin?
Inulin appears as a white powder.
What are some typical applications of inulin?
Some typical applications of inulin include skin conditioning and use as a humectant.
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