Microencapsulation of Probiotics for Targeted Oral Delivery: Advances, Applications, and Therapeutic Potential

Abstract

Microencapsulation of probiotics has revolutionized the landscape of functional foods and therapeutic delivery systems, particularly for gastrointestinal and systemic health. Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer health benefits to the host. However, their survival is compromised by the harsh gastrointestinal (GI) environment, which includes gastric acid, bile salts, and digestive enzymes. Microencapsulation provides a protective matrix that enhances probiotic viability, stability, and site-specific delivery within the GI tract. Encapsulation materials such as alginate, chitosan, and synthetic polymers are used to create microcapsules via methods like spray drying, extrusion, and emulsification. These systems allow controlled and sustained release, which is vital for managing chronic disorders like IBS and IBD. Furthermore, synbiotic formulations combining probiotics and prebiotics enhance colonization and efficacy. This thesis explores the materials, methods, and mechanisms used in probiotic microencapsulation and evaluates their functional applications, especially in targeted therapy and precision nutrition. It also discusses emerging trends in nanotechnology and smart delivery systems tailored to physiological triggers such as pH or enzymes. Finally, it highlights industrial and clinical implications, emphasizing the need for scalable and regulatory-compliant solutions for commercial deployment. The findings underscore microencapsulation’s role as a transformative tool for probiotic delivery and gut microbiota modulation.