Wheat Germ Oil: Composition, Bioactivity, and Future Nano Solutions

Wheat germ oil, derived from the germ of Triticum aestivum, is among the richest natural sources of vitamin E, essential fatty acids, phytosterols, carotenoids, and bioactive peptides. Its unique composition imparts potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, neuroprotective, and anti-aging effects, positioning it as a promising nutraceutical and therapeutic agent. Clinical and experimental research demonstrates WGO's capacity to reduce oxidative stress, alter lipid metabolism, control inflammatory signaling pathways, and maintain tissue integrity in diseases like diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, osteoporosis, nephrotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, and postmenopausal complications. Despite these benefits, WGO's shelf life and bioefficacy are limited by its high polyunsaturated fatty acid content, which makes it extremely vulnerable to oxidation. Recent developments in micro- and nanoencapsulation technologies have improved its stability, bioavailability, and suitability for use in pharmaceuticals, cosmeceuticals, functional foods, and nutraceuticals by employing buttermilk, proteins, phospholipids, and polysaccharides.