Preparation of astaxanthin/pycnogenol nanoparticles: A delivery system with improved astaxanthin stability and bioavailability

Astaxanthin (AST) and pycnogenol (PYC) are natural bioactive compounds commonly used in pharmaceuticals and functional foods due to their highly antioxidant activity and potential health benefits. However, the widespread application of astaxanthin is hindered by its poor water solubility and highly unsaturated structure. In this study, nanoparticles co-delivering astaxanthin and pycnogenol (NAP) were fabricated to enhance the dispersibility, stability, and bioavailability of astaxanthin.