Interaction between hyaluronic acid and phospholipid bilayer and its influence on stability and bioavailability of luteolin-loaded liposomes

The poor solubility of luteolin limits its food applications, and while liposomes offer a potential delivery solution, their phospholipid bilayer membranes are unstable. To overcome these dual challenges, this study developed hyaluronic acid (HA)-coated luteolin liposomes (HA-LUT-lips). HA-LUT-lips exhibited a core-shell structure, high encapsulation efficiency, and good dispersibility. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed HA interacted with liposomes via hydrogen bonds, while Raman spectroscopy (RS) showed HA reduced membrane fluidity and enhanced lipid lateral packing. Thermogravimetric (TG) analysis and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) revealed that HA-LUT-lips were more thermally stable than LUT-lips. HA coating also enhanced ionic strength and storage stability, slowing luteolin release during simulated digestion. HA coating can resist the oxidation of liposomes and delay the leakage of luteolin. These findings suggest HA-coated liposomes were a promising delivery system for luteolin in functional foods and nutritional enhancers.