A new type of biocompatible emulsifier was created by chemically linking hemp protein with green tea polyphenols. These emulsifiers were used to produce nanoemulsions of hemp oil containing the sensitive drug 5-MeO-DMT, with droplets around 200 nanometers and stable surface charge. The polyphenols retained their antioxidant activity, protecting the drug from oxidative stress. The emulsions remained stable for four weeks without separating. Cellular imaging showed the formulation was taken up by cells, and toxicity tests indicated acceptable cell viability. This nanodelivery platform offers a way to improve the bioavailability and dosing consistency of 5-MeO-DMT.
A new class of biocompatible emulsifiers was created by conjugating hemp protein with green tea polyphenols using a simple pH-assisted coupling protocol. These emulsifiers were used to produce hemp oil nanoemulsions enriched with 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT), achieving average droplet sizes of about 200 nm and ζ potential values of about -40 mV. The polyphenol-conjugated emulsifiers protected the sensitive drug under simulated oxidative stress, indicating retained antioxidant properties. The emulsions resisted various stressors and showed colloidal stability for 4 weeks without phase separation. Cellular uptake was confirmed by imaging, and in vitro cytotoxicity assays showed acceptable cell viability with drug-loaded nanoemulsions, offering an ingestible formulation for improved bioavailability of 5-MeO-DMT.