Evaluation of iron transport from ferrous glycinate liposomes using Caco-2 cell model.

Ding Baomiao, Yi Xiangzhou, Li Li, Yang Hualin
College of Life Science, Yangtze University, Jingmi Road 266, Jingzhou Hubei 434025, China

Abstract
Background: Iron fortification of foods is currently a strategy employed to fight iron deficiency in countries. Liposomes were  assumed to be a potential carrier of iron supplements.

Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the iron transport from ferrous glycinate liposomes, and to estimate  the effects of liposomal carriers, phytic acid, zinc and particle size on iron transport using Caco-2 cell models.

Methods: Caco-2 cells were cultured and seeded in DMEM medium. Minimum essential medium was added to the basolateral  side. Iron liposome suspensions were added to the apical side of the transwell.

Results: The iron transport from ferrous glycinate liposomes was significantly higher than that from ferrous glycinate. In the  presence of phytic acid or zinc ion, iron transport from ferrous glycinate liposomes and ferrous glycinate was evidently inhibited,  and iron transport decreased with increasing phytic acid concentration. Iron transport was decreased with increase of particle  size increasing of ferrous glycinate liposome.

Conclusion: Liposomes could behave as more than a simple carrier, and iron transport from liposomes could be implemented  via a mechanism different from the regulated non-heme iron pathway.

Keywords:Ferrous glycinate liposomes, iron transport, phytic acid, particle size.