Vitamin deficiencies remain a major global health concern, affecting millions. In 2019, Vitamin A deficiency affected 334 million children and adolescents. While supplementation and fortification are common solutions, they are often expensive and inaccessible in developing countries where diets are primarily plant-based. Beta-carotene (BC), a key vitamin A source, has low bioavailability and is prone to degradation during food processing. Nanotechnology offers a promising approach to enhance BC bioavailability and protection from degradation. This project develops cost-effective nano-carrier systems, including nanospheres and liposomes carriers, using biocompatible materials to improve BC delivery and effectiveness. 

Funding source: 

Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 

Related publications: 

M. Fortunatus, S. Balog, F. Sousa, D. Vanhecke, B. Rothen-Rutishauser, P. Taladriz-Blanco and A. Petri-Fink, RSC Adv, 2025, 15, 1095-1104