Application of fucoidan for the encapsulation of yeast K2 toxin

Fucoidan is an anionic polysaccharide derived from brown algae and is composed of L-fucose residues linked by alternating α-(1→3) with α-(1→4) linkages or by either α-(1→3) or α-(1→4) linkages alone. Fucoidan is known for its pharmacological, antibacterial, and antifungal properties and is used in the food industry. The aim of the study was to apply fucoidan to the formulation of the yeast killer toxin K2 produced by Saccharomyces cerevisiae. K2 toxin-loaded fucoidan particles were formed by a low-cost complexation method. They were characterised by dynamic light scattering, FT-IR spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy methods. The particles ranged in size from 180 to 280 nm and were stable for at least one month at 4°C. The encapsulated K2 toxin retained its antimicrobial activity. In addition, complexation with fucoidan increased the stability of the K2 toxin at room temperature. Fucoidan could serve as a carrier for K2 toxin and enhance the biotechnological potential of antimicrobial agents produced by S. cerevisiae. Encapsulation of K2 toxin opens up opportunities for its use in the food and beverage industry for biopreservation.