# From Synthesis to Therapeutics: Bioactive‐Coated Zein Nanoparticles in Drug Delivery

## TL;DR

This review explores how zein nanoparticles coated with bioactive materials can improve drug delivery by enhancing stability and therapeutic effects.

## Contribution

The paper systematically reviews synthesis methods, coating materials, and biological activities of bioactive-coated zein nanoparticles.

## Key findings

- The antisolvent method is most commonly used for zein nanoparticle synthesis due to its simplicity and cost-effectiveness.
- Chitosan is identified as the preferred coating material for improving nanoparticle stability and performance.
- Bioactive-coated zein nanoparticles show antioxidant, anticancer, and other therapeutic properties in preclinical studies.

## Abstract

Polymeric zein nanoparticles (ZNP), derived from corn protein, are biodegradable drug carriers with high stability and low synthesis costs. Their amphiphilic nature allows efficient encapsulation of both hydrophilic and lipophilic drugs, making them promising for drug delivery. However, their instability under physiological pH can limit therapeutic efficacy, necessitating protective coatings for improved absorption. This review discusses synthesis methods, coating materials, and biological activities of bioactive‐coated ZNP. We found that the antisolvent method is the most commonly used due to its simplicity and cost‐effectiveness, while chitosan is the preferred coating material. ZNP exhibit antioxidant, anticancer, anesthetic, antidiabetic, hypoglycemic, and immunogenic properties, as demonstrated in both in vitro and in vivo studies. Their ability to enhance bioavailability, reduce toxicity, and enable targeted drug delivery highlights their potential in nanomedicine.