Nutraceutical and Bioactive Compounds in Foods
A special issue of Biology (ISSN 2079-7737). This special issue belongs to the section "Biotechnology".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 28 February 2026 | Viewed by 1762
Special Issue Editors
Interests: seafood chemistry and biochemistry; seafood waste utilization; gelation; functional food and ingredients; future foods; shelf-life extension
Interests: functional properties of proteins; valorization of seafood byproducts; novel food ingredients and product development
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
The study of bioactive compounds and nutraceuticals has gained increasing attention due to their potential roles in metabolism, cellular function, and disease prevention. These naturally occurring molecules—such as polyphenols, flavonoids, carotenoids, peptides, and other secondary metabolites—exhibit diverse biological activities, including antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and metabolic-regulating properties. Understanding their molecular mechanisms and optimizing their bioavailability are crucial for advancing their applications in functional foods, shelf-life extension, food safety, biotechnology, and health sciences.
Recent advances in biotechnological approaches have enabled the identification, extraction, and modification of bioactive compounds from various food sources, including agricultural and marine byproducts. Novel strategies such as enzyme-assisted extraction, nanoencapsulation, and metabolic engineering are revolutionizing the utilization of these compounds for therapeutic and nutritional applications. Furthermore, combining their applications with emerging processing Technologies to enhance food quality and safety could be explored. This Special Issue aims to explore the latest scientific discoveries in the molecular characterization, bioavailability, and biological functions of bioactive compounds, as well as innovative methods for their enhanced delivery and application.
Scope and Topics of Interest
We welcome original research and review articles covering, but not limited to, the following topics:
- Identification and characterization of bioactive compounds from diverse food sources, including food byproducts.
- Molecular mechanisms of action, including antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic pathways.
- Bioavailability, absorption, and metabolism of bioactive compounds in vitro and in vivo.
- Biotechnological advancements in the extraction, purification, and enhancement of bioactive compounds.
- Integration into functional foods and nutraceuticals, with a focus on stability, efficacy, and delivery systems.
- Interactions with gut microbiota and their influence on health.
Emerging Research Areas
- Advanced Extraction and Processing Techniques: The development of sustainable and efficient biotechnological approaches to isolate and stabilize bioactive compounds.
- Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms: Investigating signaling pathways and physiological interactions of bioactive molecules in health and disease models.
- Enhanced Bioavailability Strategies: Nanoencapsulation, controlled release, and metabolic engineering for improved efficacy of functional compounds.
- Food Biotechnology and Functional Ingredients: The application of bioactive molecules in food formulations to enhance their shelf-life, safety, and health benefits.
Types of Papers Solicited
- Experimental studies on bioactive compound extraction, characterization, and function.
- Molecular and biochemical investigations of mechanisms of action in health and disease models.
- Biotechnological advancements for improving the bioavailability and efficacy of bioactive molecules.
- Interdisciplinary approaches linking food science, biochemistry, and biotechnology.
Dr. Avtar Singh
Dr. Umesh Patil
Guest Editors
Manuscript Submission Information
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Keywords
- bioactive compounds
- functional food ingredients
- nutraceuticals
- antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents
- metabolic regulation
- biotechnology in food science
- gut microbiota interactions
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