Liposomal nano-systems and hydrogels are two types of nano-technological systems that have promising applications in the prevention and treatment of metabolic diseases (diabetes, obesity, dyslipidemias, and metabolic syndrome), which are a major public health concern worldwide. Advances in nanotechnology and biomaterials have enabled the development of new platforms for the controlled delivery of nutrients or bioactive compounds in order to solve these issues. This review compares the characteristics, advantages, and limitations of these two systems, with a focus on their applicability in the prevention and treatment of metabolic diseases.

Luteolin is a naturally occurring flavonoid with growing interest for its senolytic properties. However, its poor water solubility and low bioavailability limit clinical application. This study aimed to develop and compare two types of nanocarriers, liposomes and polymeric nanoparticles, for the efficient delivery of luteolin in senolytic therapies. Liposomes with luteolin were prepared using the lipid film hydration method, followed by sonication and extrusion. Polymeric nanoparticles were developed via the nanoprecipitation method using pullulan acetate, a hydrophobic derivative obtained by chemical functionalization of pullulan. Pullulan was biosynthesized over 72 h using the microorganism Aureobasidium pullulans ICCF 36 (from CMII–INCDCF-ICCF). The formulation used a polymer-to-luteolin ratio of 10:1 (g/g) and Pluronic F127 as a stabilizer. Nanoprecipitation was carried out under controlled conditions: stirring at 700 rpm and dropwise addition at 0.5 mL/min. Luteolin was successfully encapsulated in both delivery systems. Liposomes showed an encapsulation efficiency of 85.07 ± 0.09% and nanoscale diameter. Polymeric nanoparticles demonstrated an encapsulation efficiency of 74.87 ± 0.05%, nanometric size and a formulation yield of 73.29 ± 0.09%. Both liposomal and polymeric nanoparticle systems effectively encapsulated luteolin, with high efficiency and yield. The formulations present promising potential for use in senolytic therapies, targeting age-related cellular dysfunction. Further studies will assess their release kinetics, biological activity, and senolytic effects in vitro and in vivo.

Modern diets are high in fructans, which may lead to abdominal discomfort, particularly in sensitive individuals. Microbial inulinase, an enzyme that hydrolyzes inulin into fructose and fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS), has significant prebiotic potential and may contribute to the prevention of metabolic disorders by enhancing fructan digestion. This study investigates inulinase production by the Aspergillus niger ICCF 92 strain under various growth conditions. Three carbon sources (inulin, molasses, and carob pod decoction), the time required for biosynthesis processes, and stirring speed were evaluated for their influence on inulinase activity. Nitrogen sources included yeast extract, ammonium nitrate, and ammonium phosphate. Process monitoring included pH measurement, protein quantification via the Bradford assay, and inulinase activity assessment using the 3,5-dinitrosalicylic acid method. The highest inulinase production (38.29 U/mL) and protein concentration (0.7548 mg/mL) were achieved after 14 days of static fermentation with carob pod decoction as the carbon source.

Polyhydroxyalcanoates (PHAs) are polyesters of aliphatic hydroxy acids.

In the last few years, a new concept of functional foods has been developed, leading to the diversification of food production

Microbial inulinases are enzymes produced by bacteria, yeasts, and fungi that can hydrolyze inulin into fructose and fructooligosaccharides (FOSs). The article discusses the various types of inulinases (exo- and endo-inulinases), microbial sources, biochemical properties, and optimal activity conditions, which are critical for their use in biotechnological and food processes. Special emphasis is placed on inulin degradation products, particularly FOSs, which are known for their prebiotic properties. They promote the growth of beneficial intestinal microbiota, helping to maintain digestive health and improve nutrient absorption. Compounds produced by inulinases may play an important role in the prevention of metabolic diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemias by modulating the microbiota and regulating energy metabolism. In conclusion, microbial inulinases are a promising biotechnological tool for developing nutritional strategies to prevent metabolic diseases and improve overall health. Recent evidence demonstrates that advances in recombinant expression systems, enzyme engineering, immobilization technologies, and microbiome research have substantially expanded the industrial and biomedical potential of microbial inulinases. This review highlights emerging trends toward sustainable enzyme production, precision nutrition, and microbiome-targeted functional foods while identifying current limitations and future research priorities.