Multicarotenoid Beadlets Sequential Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current carotenoid supplements face issues with bioavailability due to competition among individual carotenoids for micelle formation and bile salts, leading to reduced effectiveness in absorption and utilization.
Innovation Solution
A sequential, timed release multicarotenoid beadlet formulation with a balanced ratio of β-carotene, lutein, lycopene, α-carotene, and zeaxanthin, designed to release at specific intervals in the gastrointestinal tract, minimizing competition and maximizing bioavailability by layering the carotenoids in a specific order for controlled absorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple carotenoids are administered together in conventional supplements, then the supplement provides a mix of carotenoids, but the carotenoids compete for micelle formation and bile salts, reducing bioavailability and absorption effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The beadlet is divided into multiple concentric layers, with each layer containing a specific carotenoid. The layers are segmented by thickness and composition to control the release rate of each carotenoid, preventing competition for absorption while maintaining a balanced mix of multiple carotenoids.
Solution Approach 2:
The beadlet structure employs a nested doll configuration where multiple carotenoid-containing layers are concentrically arranged around a central core. Each layer is nested within the previous one, with varying thicknesses designed to control the sequential release of different carotenoids during digestion, thereby improving their individual bioavailability.
2Quantity of substance
If β-carotene is included in the supplement, then the supplement provides beta-carotene benefits, but β-carotene aggressively consumes bile salts and is absorbed quickly, reducing the absorption of other carotenes like lutein
Solution Approach 1:
The beadlet segments β-carotene into a specific layer with controlled thickness, separating it from other carotenes like lutein. This segmentation ensures that β-carotene does not compete with other carotenes for bile salts and micelle formation, allowing each carotenoid to be absorbed at its optimal rate without interfering with others.
3Ease of manufacture
If individual carotenoids are released simultaneously in the gastrointestinal tract, then the supplement is simple to manufacture, but the carotenoids compete for micelle formation and intestinal absorption, limiting efficacy
Solution Approach 1:
The beadlet introduces dynamic release characteristics where each carotenoid layer is designed with specific thickness and permeability properties that control the rate and timing of release. As the beadlet passes through the gastrointestinal tract, the layers dissolve at different rates, creating a dynamic release profile that prevents competition for absorption and maximizes the efficacy of each carotenoid.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The formulation enhances the absorption and effectiveness of carotenoids by ensuring each type is absorbed at optimal times, potentially improving overall health benefits and matching recommended dietary intakes.
Implementation Method 1
the carotenoids release in the gastrointestinal tract in a sequential, timed release manner to maximize the bioavailability of individual carotenoids by constraining competition for micelles and enteric uptake
Data Source
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AI summary
A controlled release beadlet that sequentially releases carotenoids over time within the gastrointestinal tract of a subject, as well as a method of administering the carotenoids. The beadlet provides a specific ratio of carotenoids which release from the beadlet at preselected times during passage through the gastrointestinal tract. The method includes releasing the carotenoids in preselected ratios at specific time intervals in the gastrointestinal tract to mitigate competition between the carotenoids for their uptake, and/or to potentially maximize the uptake of individual carotenoids within a mixed carotenoid formulation.