Innovative yeast-based delivery systems for enhancing bioaccessibility and bioavailability of bioactive compounds

<h3>Background</h3><p dir="ltr">Yeast has garnered significant attention as an innovative delivery system. It features a robust cell wall and endoplasmic membrane, primarily composed of β-glucan, chitin, and proteins, capable of accommodating both hydrophobic and hydrophilic bioactive compounds. Furthermore, the microencapsulation process is relatively straightforward and offers several advantages, including controlled release, protection of the core ingredient, targeted delivery and no unfavorable effects on the organoleptic properties of the food.</p><h3>Scope and approach</h3><p dir="ltr">This review provides the recent progress on the yeast and yeast-biopolymer composite delivery systems, associated with their structure, properties, and functions. Particular focus is on the <i>in vitro</i> and <i>in vivo</i> studies using yeast to enhance the bioaccessibility, bioavailability, and bioactivity of bioactive compounds. Finally, we discuss the challenges, limitations and future directions of current yeast delivery systems in the functional food and pharmaceutical fields.</p><h3>Key findings and conclusions</h3><p dir="ltr">Innovative yeast-based delivery systems have already demonstrated the capacity to improve the bioaccessibility and bioavailability of bioactive compounds. Future research should combine yeast cells with various biopolymers and advanced technological tools to develop more versatile and efficient smart delivery systems.</p>