**2.4. Clay nanoparticles for nutrient delivery systems**

As previously described, clay nanoparticles are biocompatible materials with a high internal space, a high ion exchange capacity, and a low toxicity that these properties make them ideal for the bioactive compound delivery systems. The nanoclay encapsulation system can be prepared in a relatively simple and inexpensive process compared to other delivery systems. In addition to improving the solubility of the drug or active compounds, the nanoparticle encapsulation system has been considered for oral applications due to its high adhesion properties that are useful for molecules against GI barriers [49]. Choi's research team reports an easy way of encapsulating the strongest antioxidant by MMT with cation exchange reaction (**Figure 3(A)**) [50]. γ-L-glutamyl-L-cysteinylglycine (GSH) is a cellular antioxidant protector (preserver) against reactive oxygen species by neutralizing free radicals. GSH stability can be increased by encapsulating GHS on MMT. The tested GSH-MMT on mice resulted in a significant increase in the bioavailability and high activity of antioxidants in the plasma (**Figure 3(B)**).

**Figure 3.** (A) X-ray pattern of (a) MMT and (b) GSH-MMT hybrid; and (B) GSH concentration in mice plasma [1].

Clay nanoparticles have attracted a great deal of attention as a good candidate for packaging of various materials, and it clearly demonstrates the increase in the sustainability and bioavailability of functional molecules.
