Nanoparticles prepared from plant proteins

Authors: Kim, Sanghoon

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 6/17/2019
Publication Date: 9/10/2019
Citation: Kim, S. 2019. Nanoparticles prepared from plant proteins [abstract]. International Nanotechnology and Nanoscience Conference, September 23-24, 2019,Chicago, IL.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: In the field of agricultural science, protein is one of the most commonly used materials for the preparation of nanoparticles. Due to their amphiphilic nature, proteins adsorb at the hydrophobic/hydrophilic interface or form aggregates. This unusual character was utilized for the preparation of nanoparticles. In this presentation, two types of nanoparticles will be introduced: 1) Nanoparticles that change wetting property of materials immediately, 2) Nanoparticles that carry chemical compounds. Gliadin, a protein found in the endosperms of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), is not soluble in water but dissolves in aqueous ethanol in the form of aggregates. As ethyl cyanoacrylate monomers are reacted with gliadin, poly(ethyl cyanoacrylate) chains are attached to the surface of gliadin molecules. The nanoparticles thus produced are made up of block copolymers that have an excellent coating capability on the surface of hydrophobic materials. These particles change the wetting property of the target material instantly and dramatically. Zein is one of the seed storage proteins found in the endosperm of maize. It is soluble in aqueous ethanol solutions with high ethanol content, and forms aggregates when the ethanol content of solution is lowered. This unique character was utilized to prepare tiny capsules that carry hydrophobic drugs. At optimum processing conditions, the encapsulation efficiency can readily surpass 90%.