In vivo effect of orally given polyvinyl alcohol/starch nanocomposites containing bioactive peptides from Phaseolus vulgaris beans

In this study, a nanocomposite produced with a blend of polyvinyl alcohol and partially hydrolyzed starch from Solanum lycocarpum was used as a matrix to entrap natural bioactive peptides from Phaseolus vulgaris. The nanocomposites were characterized by dynamic light scattering, scanning electron microscopy, and field emission gun scanning electron microscopy. The nanocomposites were then orally administered to Wistar rats, and their absorption was determined using morphometric, histopathological, cytochemistry, transmission electron microscopy, and biochemical analysis. Results showed that despite some aggregates being formed, the nanocomposites efficiently entrapped the natural peptides, with a loading capacity of 303.62 mg (45.7%) and an entrapment efficiency of 85.3% (267.02 µmol). Histochemical and morphological analysis revealed the absence of tissue injury and cellular changes, indicating the absence of deleterious and toxic effects. Transmission electron microscopy showed the internalization of the nanocomposites in the enterocytes, and biochemical analysis indicated that natural peptides were absorbed reaching the bloodstream.