3-D Cubosomes: A New Drug-Delivery Tool

For the first time, scientists are extensively studying the 3-D structure of cubosomes. This new development could improve and further the use of cubosomes within food and medicine science. The team researchers from the University of Coimbra in Portugal and EPFL in Switzerland teamed up with Nestle, the world's largest food company, to carry out the study.

Cubosomes are often referred to as "biological capsules" that transport molecules of nutrients or drugs in a safe and fast manner. Thus, they are highly recognized by the food and pharmaceutical industry. Since it is almost impossible to see the interior structure of a cubosome, researchers decided to study its interior composition using a 3-D structure. The computer models were identical to the researchers' real findings.

"This method allows us to get information about everything, both the inside and outside of the cubosomes," Cecile Herbert, co-author of the study, said in a news release.

The researchers used a microscopy technique known as cryo-electron tomography (CET), which allowed them to create three-dimensional images of the cubosomes. The researchers used a microscope to take images of the cubosomes in a variety of angles. This technique enabled the researchers to reconstruct 3-D images of cubosomes in their normal states.

"With this approach we can now forge a new understanding of the structure of the cubosomes' interior," said Davide Demurtas, co-author of the study.

By examining the internal structure of cubosomes, the researchers are opening room for new developments within the food and medicinal industries.

Food and medicine companies can use this technique to develop new ways to control cubosomes and molecules can to deliver nutrients and drugs more efficiently.

The findings of this study were published in Nature Communications.

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