Hydrophilic vs. Hydrophobic Surfaces

It was traditionally believed that hydrophobic nanoparticles are more readily absorbed by the body.

However, recent findings suggest that hydrophilic surface groups can actually increase the bioavailability of such systems.

 • The presence of polyether groups improves resistance to interaction with physiological fluids.

 • PEG chain segments prevent enzymatic contact, reducing degradation and aggregation.

 • Surface properties can be tuned via hydrophilic stabilizers, biocompatible polymers, or surfactants.

Surfactants and Micelle Self-Assembly

“Marinco” molecules contain both hydrophobic and hydrophilic segments, enabling them to self-assemble into micelles, which act as solubilizers for poorly water-soluble active ingredients.

 • Micelle diameter (from dynamic light scattering): ~10 nm

 • Calculated length: ~7.2 nm

 • Upon dimerization, polymer chains interpenetrate, forming internal cavities for encapsulation of active molecules

 • Hydrophilic regions are exposed, providing aqueous solubility

Goals and Objectives of the “Marinco” Project

  • Goal

    To develop pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations based on nanostructures, exploring their pharmacodynamic properties.

  • Main Objectives

     • To establish the physicochemical foundation for creating novel micellar drug delivery forms using nonionic surfactants

     • To determine their pharmacological efficacy and cosmetic potential

Key Research Outcomes

For the first time, experimental data were obtained on the interaction of low- and high-molecular-weight substances with micellar systems and their penetration into the human bodyA new micellar drug delivery form was developed and its therapeutic properties studiedA stable van der Waals-based model was constructed to describe the behavior of the new system

Practical Significance

These findings have strong practical implications:
 • They demonstrate a marked increase in bioavailability
• They pave the way for medical and cosmetic applications
• They provide a foundation for developing next-generation drug and cosmetic formulations with improved performance

Study Summary: Effects of “BETA-carotene” Vitamin Complex

Study Objective is to evaluate the influence of the biologically active food product “BETA-carotene” on: The blood system, The immune system, General functional health indicators.

1. No Negative Impact:

No harmful effects on the blood, immunity, or overall health were found during the study.

2. Positive Effects on the Blood System:

Significant improvements were noted in:

 • Hemoglobin levels, RBC count, hematocrit (HCT)
• Erythrocyte parameters: MCV, MCH, MCHC, RDW-cv, RDW-sd
• Platelet parameters: PLT, MPV, PDW, PCT

These improvements suggest enhanced oxygen transport and better blood composition after the course.

3. Immunomodulatory Action:

 • The preparation had a multi-directional immunocorrective effect, including:
 • Adjustments in leukocytes, neutrophils, eosinophils
 • Normalization of nonspecific resistance
 • The effect depended on the initial immune status of the person (stimulating, suppressive, or adaptive action)

4. Reduction in Inflammatory and Oxidative Stress:

 • Reduction of toxic-inflammatory markers 
• Lowered lipid peroxidation
 • Restoration of neutrophil and lymphocyte pools
 • Support of homeostasis mechanisms

Greater Efficacy in Children:

 • The effect was more pronounced in preschool and early school-aged children than in adults.
 • This aligns with prior model experiments showing enhanced response in developing organisms.

 Functional Tests in Athletes:

In judo athletes, those who received the supplement showed:

• Improved blood and immune system markers
• Disappearance of anemia symptoms
• Better cardiovascular, respiratory, and autonomic nervous system function
• Enhanced adaptation capacity

 Conclusion and Recommendation:

The “BETA-carotene” vitamin complex is recommended for:

• Maintaining and restoring blood and immune health
• Enhancing functional status in:
• Children and adults under physical or psychological stress
• Military personnel
• Athletes
• People working in extreme conditions
• Tourists and travelers

This supplement supports adaptation, recovery, and systemic balance.

Expert Comment:

This study supports BETA-carotene not just as an antioxidant but as a functional, systemic modulator. Its adaptogenic and immunomodulatory roles make it promising for use in:

• Preventive care
• Recovery after illness or stress
• Support for high-demand populations (e.g. athletes, shift workers)