Ultrasmall iron nanoparticles bound to oat protein nanofibrils

Ultrasmall iron nanoparticles bound to oat protein nanofibrils (USINP-OPNs) represent a novel hybrid nanocomposite designed for the efficient delivery of iron in nutritional and therapeutic applications (Bolisetty & Mezzenga, 2016, Nature Nanotechnology). This system utilizes amyloid-like nanofibrils derived from oat proteins, which serve as a high-surface-area scaffold to stabilize iron oxyhydroxide or iron oxide nanoparticles at the sub-5 nm scale (Mohammadian et al., 2020, Food Hydrocolloids). The protein matrix prevents the aggregation of these nanoparticles, maintaining their solubility and enhancing their bioavailability within the gastrointestinal tract compared to traditional iron salts (Nyström et al., 2016, Advanced Materials). While not a biological target itself, the complex functions as a delivery vehicle that releases iron for absorption via pathways such as the divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1). This approach is primarily investigated for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia, aiming to provide a supplement with high efficacy and minimal sensory or gastrointestinal side effects. Additionally, the magnetic properties of the ultrasmall iron core suggest potential utility as a T1-weighted contrast agent in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Other names

Oat protein nanofibril-iron nanocompositeOPN-Fe nanoparticlesIron-loaded oat protein fibrilsAvenin-stabilized iron nanoparticles

The nanocomposite acts as a delivery vehicle where the oat protein nanofibrils stabilize ultrasmall iron nanoparticles, preventing their aggregation and premature oxidation. Upon ingestion, the iron is released in the gastrointestinal tract in a controlled manner, facilitating absorption through divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1) or endocytic pathways, thereby increasing systemic iron levels for hemoglobin synthesis (Bolisetty & Mezzenga, 2016; Mohammadian et al., 2020).