Olemiselle

Olemiselle is a term used in theoretical discussions of nanoscale oil-in-water emulsions to describe a stabilized oil core encapsulated by an amphiphilic shell. The name combines “ole” (oil) with the diminutive suffix “-miselle,” signaling a small particle. In this usage, olemiselles are envisioned as carriers or stabilizers within emulsions.

Structure and properties: The particle consists of an oil core surrounded by a shell of amphiphilic molecules such as block copolymers or lipids. The core is hydrophobic, the shell provides stabilization. Sizes are typically tens of nanometers; properties such as surface charge and interfacial behavior can be tuned to influence stability, loading capacity, and release of hydrophobic payloads.

Production: Olemiselles are proposed to form by controlled assembly at the oil–water interface, using methods such as high-shear homogenization, ultrasonication, microfluidic generation, or solvent displacement, followed by purification to remove excess oil and surfactant.

Applications and status: Potential uses include delivery of hydrophobic drugs, cosmetic actives, and food-grade flavor encapsulation. The concept offers a compact alternative to some nanocarriers, but it is not a standardized or widely adopted technology, and safety and regulatory aspects remain to be established.

See also:

- Micelles

- Liposomes

- Nanoemulsions

- Emulsions

- Drug delivery systems