Preparation and Characterization of Novel Acylated Chitosan/Carboxymethyl Konjac Glucomannan Nanogels for the Encapsulation of Polyphenols

This research explores the development of a polysaccharide-based nanogel by modifying chitosan (Cs) and konjac glucomannan (KGM). By introducing acyl groups, the water solubility of Cs was improved, while irradiation treatment and carboxymethylation modified the molecular weight distribution and viscosity of KGM, enhancing their suitability in nanogel formulations. The nanogel synthesis was optimized, the L ACs/CKGM8 nanogel (1:1) exhibited a positive surface charge, smaller and more uniform particle size, low aggregation, and high yield. Moreover, the inclusion of Rosa roxburghii Tratt polyphenols (RP) reduced the particle size and improved the structural integrity of nanogel (NG). The RP-loaded NG exhibited excellent encapsulation efficiency (EE) of 76.64% and a loading capacity (LC) of 56.99% for RP. The controlled RP release in simulated gastrointestinal conditions suggests these nanogels may improve oral polyphenol delivery system performance.