Solid state synthesis of docosahexaenoic acid-loaded zinc oxide nanoparticles as a potential antidiabetic agent in rats

Synthesis, Characterization, Phytochemistry, and Therapeutic Potential of Azadirachta indica Conjugated Silver Nanoparticles: A Comprehensive Study on Antidiabetic and Antioxidant Properties

Nanotechnology has become a major topic of study, particularly in the medical and health domains. Because nanomedicine has a higher recovery rate than other conventional drugs, it has attracted more attention. Green synthesis is the most efficient and sustainable method of creating nanoparticles. The current work used ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray, and X-ray diffraction to thoroughly characterize the synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) from Azadirachta indica leaf extract. Characterization confirmed the synthesis of the AgNPs along with the possible linkage of the phytochemicals with the silver as well as the quantitative analysis and nature of NPs. The antioxidant activity of AgNPs and neem extract was measured by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay using various concentrations (20, 40, 60, 80, and 100 µg/ml). Additionally, using diabetic mice that had been given alloxan, the in vivo antidiabetic potential of biosynthesized AgNPs was assessed. Eight groups of mice were used to assess the antidiabetic activity: one control group and seven experimental groups (untreated, extract-treated, AgNPs at low and high doses, standard drug, low dose of AgNPs + drug, and high dose of AgNPs + drug). At days 0, 7, 14, 21, and 28, blood glucose levels and body weight were measured. After 28 days, the mice were dissected, and the liver, kidney, and pancreas were examined histologically. The results depicted that the AgNPs showed higher (significant) radical scavenging activity (IC50 = 35.2 µg/ml) than extract (IC50 = 93.0 µg/ml) and ascorbic acid (IC50 = 64.6 µg/ml). The outcomes demonstrated that biosynthesized AgNPs had a great deal of promise as an antidiabetic agent and exhibited remarkable effects in diabetic mice given AgNPs, extract, and drug. Remarkable improvement in the body weight and blood glucose level of mice treated with high doses of AgNPs and drug was observed. The body weight and blood glucose level of diabetic mice treated with a high dose of AgNPs + standard drug showed significant improvement, going from 28.7 ± 0.2 to 35.6 ± 0.3 g and 248 ± 0.3 to 109 ± 0.1 mg/dl, respectively. Significant regeneration was also observed in the histomorphology of the kidney, liver's central vein, and islets of Langerhans after treatment with biosynthesized AgNPs. Diabetic mice given a high dose of AgNPs and drug displayed architecture of the kidney, liver, and pancreas that was nearly identical to that of the control group. According to the current research, biosynthesized AgNPs have strong antioxidant and antidiabetic potential and may eventually provide a less expensive option for the treatment of diabetes.

Revolutionizing Cardiovascular Health with Nano Encapsulated Omega-3 Fatty Acids: A Nano-Solution Approach

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFAs) offer diverse health benefits, such as supporting cardiovascular health, improving cognitive function, promoting joint and musculoskeletal health, and contributing to healthy aging. Despite their advantages, challenges like oxidation susceptibility, low bioavailability, and potential adverse effects at high doses persist. Nanoparticle encapsulation emerges as a promising avenue to address these limitations while preserving stability, enhanced bioavailability, and controlled release. This comprehensive review explores the therapeutic roles of omega-3 fatty acids, critically appraising their shortcomings and delving into modern encapsulation strategies. Furthermore, it explores the potential advantages of metal-organic framework nanoparticles (MOF NPs) compared to other commonly utilized nanoparticles in improving the therapeutic effectiveness of omega-3 fatty acids within drug delivery systems (DDSs). Additionally, it outlines future research directions to fully exploit the therapeutic benefits of these encapsulated omega-3 formulations for cardiovascular disease treatment.

Docosahexaenoic acid-loaded nanoparticles: A state-of-the-art of preparation methods, characterization, functionality, and therapeutic applications

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22:6 n-3), an omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid, offers several beneficial effects. DHA helps in reducing depression, autoimmune diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, attention deficit hyperactivity syndrome, and cardiovascular diseases. It can stimulate the development of brain and nerve, alleviate lipids metabolism-related disorders, and enhance vision development. However, DHA susceptibility to chemical oxidation, poor water solubility, and unpleasant order could restrict its applications for nutritional and therapeutic purposes. To avoid these drawbacks and enhance its bioavailability, DHA can be encapsulated using an effective delivery system. Several encapsulation methods are recognized, and DHA-loaded nanoparticles have demonstrated numerous benefits. In clinical studies, positive influences on the development of several diseases have been reported, but some assumptions are conflicting and need more exploration, since DHA has a systemic and not a targeted release at the required level. This might cause the applications of nanoparticles that could allow DHA release at the required level and improve its efficiency, thus resulting in a better controlling of several diseases. In the current review, we focused on researches investigating the formulation and development of DHA-loaded nanoparticles using different delivery systems, including low-density lipoprotein, zinc oxide, silver, zein, and resveratrol-stearate. Silver-DHA nanoparticles presented a typical particle size of 24 nm with an incorporation level of 97.67 %, while the entrapment efficiency of zinc oxide-DHA nanoparticles represented 87.3 %. By using zein/Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) stabilized nanoparticles, DHA's encapsulation level reached 84.6 %. We have also highlighted the characteristics, functionality and medical implementation of these nanoparticles in the treatment of inflammations, brain disorders, diabetes as well as hepatocellular carcinoma.

Preparation of bio-synthesized Ag nanoparticles and assessment of their antidiabetic and antioxidant potential against STZ-induced diabetic albino rats

Bio-synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were successfully obtained using the leaf extract from Ventilago maderaspatana. Extensive analysis was conducted to evaluate the physical and chemical characteristics of the bioderived AgNPs. XRD analysis confirmed their cubic structure, and revealed a well-defined size distribution with average crystallite size of 11.7  nm. FE-SEM and TEM images visually supported the observed size range. The presence of plant-mediated phytochemicals on the surface of AgNPs was confirmed through DLS, FTIR, and TGA/DTA studies. To assess their antidiabetic potential, rats were induced with streptozotocin, resulting in elevated levels of biochemical parameters associated with diabetes. Conversely, serum insulin levels (2.50 ± 0.55) and glucokinase activity (64.50 ± 8.66) decreased. However, treatment with AgNPs demonstrated a dose-dependent reduction in blood glucose, total protein, albumin, and HbA1c levels, effectively restoring them to normal ranges. Moreover, the treatment significantly increased insulin levels (7.55 ± 0.63) and glucokinase activity (121.50 ± 4.60), indicating the antidiabetic potential of V. maderaspatana-mediated AgNPs. Notably, the exitance of phytochemicals, like flavonoids and phenols, on the surface of AgNPs facilitated their ability to neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) through electron donation. This property enhanced their overall antidiabetic efficiency.

Therapeutic application of natural compounds for skeletal muscle-associated metabolic disorders: A review on diabetes perspective

Skeletal muscle (SM) plays a vital role in energy and glucose metabolism by regulating insulin sensitivity, glucose uptake, and blood glucose homeostasis. Impaired SM metabolism is strongly linked to several diseases, particularly type 2 diabetes (T2D). Insulin resistance in SM may result from the impaired activities of insulin receptor tyrosine kinase, insulin receptor substrate 1, phosphoinositide 3-kinase, and AKT pathways. This review briefly discusses SM myogenesis and the critical roles that SM plays in insulin resistance and T2D. The pharmacological targets of T2D which are associated with SM metabolism, such as DPP4, PTB1B, SGLT, PPARγ, and GLP-1R, and their potential modulators/inhibitors, especially natural compounds, are discussed in detail. This review highlights the significance of SM in metabolic disorders and the therapeutic potential of natural compounds in targeting SM-associated T2D targets. It may provide novel insights for the future development of anti-diabetic drug therapies. We believe that scientists working on T2D therapies will benefit from this review by enhancing their knowledge and updating their understanding of the subject.

Nanomedicines based on trace elements for intervention of diabetes mellitus

Epidemiology shows that the incidence of diabetes mellitus (DM) is increasing year by year globally. Proper interventions are highly aspired for diabetics to improve the quality of life and prevent development of chronic complications. Trace elements, also known as microelements, are chemical substances that are present in our body in minute amounts. They are necessitated by the body for growth, development and functional metabolism. For the past few years, trace element nanoparticles have aroused considerable interest as a burgeoning form of nanomedicines in antidiabetic applications. These microelement-based nanomedicines can regulate glucose metabolism in several ways, showing great potential for diabetes management. Starting from the pathophysiology of diabetes, the state-of-the-art of diabetes treatment, the physiological roles of trace elements, various emerging trace element nanoparticles specific for diabetes were comprehensively reviewed in this work. Our findings disclose that trace element nanoparticles can fight against diabetes by lowering blood glucose, promoting insulin secretion, alleviating glucose intolerance, improving insulin sensitivity, ameliorating lipid profile, anti-inflammation and anti-oxidant stress, and other mechanisms. In conclusion, trace element nanoparticles can be applied as nanomedicines or dietary modifiers for effective intervention for diabetes.

Surface functionalized nanoparticles: A boon to biomedical science

The rapid development of nanomedicine has increased the likelihood that manufactured nanoparticles will one day come into contact with people and the environment. A variety of academic fields, including engineering and the health sciences, have taken a keen interest in the development of nanotechnology. Any significant development in nanomaterial-based applications would depend on the production of functionalized nanoparticles, which are believed to have the potential to be used in fields like pharmaceutical and biomedical sciences. The functionalization of nanoparticles with particular recognition chemical moieties does result in multifunctional nanoparticles with greater efficacy while at the same time minimising adverse effects, according to early clinical studies. This is because of traits like aggressive cellular uptake and focused localization in tumours. To advance this field of inquiry, chemical procedures must be developed that reliably attach chemical moieties to nanoparticles. The structure-function relationship of these functionalized nanoparticles has been extensively studied as a result of the discovery of several chemical processes for the synthesis of functionalized nanoparticles specifically for drug delivery, cancer therapy, diagnostics, tissue engineering, and molecular biology. Because of the growing understanding of how to functionalize nanoparticles and the continued work of innovative scientists to expand this technology, it is anticipated that functionalized nanoparticles will play an important role in the aforementioned domains. As a result, the goal of this study is to familiarise readers with nanoparticles, to explain functionalization techniques that have already been developed, and to examine potential applications for nanoparticles in the biomedical sciences. This review's information is essential for the safe and broad use of functionalized nanoparticles, particularly in the biomedical sector.

Greater efficiency of polyherbal drug encapsulated biosynthesized chitosan nano-biopolymer on diabetes and its complications

Diabetes is a highly complex disease that has an adverse impact on the lives of individuals, and the current medicines used to manage diabetes have obvious side effects. Medicinal plants, on the other hand, may serve as an alternate source of anti-diabetic drugs. A polyherbal combination has a higher and more extensive therapeutic potential than a single herb. Yet, due to deterioration during the absorption process, the usage of this drug still yields inadequate results. Encapsulation of polyherbal drug with chitosan nanoparticles is one of the key ways to solve this problem due to its biocombatibilty, slow and targeted drug delivery characteristics. In the present study, the chitosan was derived from prawn shell and the chitosan nanoparticles had been prepared by ionic-gelation method. The anti-diabetic polyherbal drug (Andrographis paniculata, Andrographis alata, Adhatoda zeylanica, Gymnema sylvestre, Syzygium cumini, and Justicia glabra) was encapsulated with a bio-derived chitosan biopolymer. The drug loading efficiency was about 85 %. The chemical and physical properties of the chitosan and drug-loaded chitosan nanoparticles had been analyzed by FT-IR absorption, XRD, SEM, TEM and EDAX analysis. The antidiabetic efficiency, hepatoprotective activity and antihyperlipedimic activity of the chitosan nanoparticles, polyherbal drug and polyherbal drug encapsulated with chitosan nanoparticles were assessed in a group of rats. The polyherbal drug reduced the serum glucose level from 306.4 mg/dL to 134.47 mg/dL, while the polyherbal drug encapsulated with chitosan nanoparticles reduced to 127.017 mg/dL. This was very close to the serum glucose level of non-diabetic rat (124.65 mg/dL). Further, it considerably increased the insulin level close to that of non-diabetic rat. Thus, the polyherbal drug encapsulated with chitosan nanoparticles showed superior efficiency in antidiabetic and also diabetic complications.

Asparagus Fructans as Emerging Prebiotics

Commercial fructans (inulin and oligofructose) are generally obtained from crops such as chicory, Jerusalem artichoke or agave. However, there are agricultural by-products, namely asparagus roots, which could be considered potential sources of fructans. In this work, the fructans extracted from asparagus roots and three commercial ones from chicory and agave were studied in order to compare their composition, physicochemical characteristics, and potential health effects. Asparagus fructans had similar chemical composition to the others, especially in moisture, simple sugars and total fructan contents. However, its contents of ash, protein and phenolic compounds were higher. FTIR analysis confirmed these differences in composition. Orafti^®GR showed the highest degree of polymerization (DP) of up to 40, with asparagus fructans (up to 25) falling between Orafti^®GR and the others (DP 10-11). Although asparagus fructan powder had a lower fructan content and lower DP than Orafti^®GR, its viscosity was higher, probably due to the presence of proteins. The existence of phenolic compounds lent antioxidant activity to asparagus fructans. The prebiotic activity in vitro of the four samples was similar and, in preliminary assays, asparagus fructan extract presented health effects related to infertility and diabetes diseases. All these characteristics confer a great potential for asparagus fructans to be included in the prebiotics market.

Metal-based nano-delivery platform for treating bone disease and regeneration

Owing to their excellent characteristics, such as large specific surface area, favorable biosafety, and versatile application, nanomaterials have attracted significant attention in biomedical applications. Among them, metal-based nanomaterials containing various metal elements exhibit significant bone tissue regeneration potential, unique antibacterial properties, and advanced drug delivery functions, thus becoming crucial development platforms for bone tissue engineering and drug therapy for orthopedic diseases. Herein, metal-based drug-loaded nanomaterial platforms are classified and introduced, and the achievable drug-loading methods are comprehensively generalized. Furthermore, their applications in bone tissue engineering, osteoarthritis, orthopedic implant infection, bone tumor, and joint lubrication are reviewed in detail. Finally, the merits and demerits of the current metal-based drug-loaded nanomaterial platforms are critically discussed, and the challenges faced to realize their future applications are summarized.

Functionalization of cotton fabrics with titanium oxide doped silver nanoparticles: Antimicrobial and UV protection activities

The target of our current work was designed to prepare titanium oxide doped silver nanoparticles (Ag/TiO₂ NPs) and their impact on the functionalization of cotton fabrics. Additionally, the effect of Ag/TiO₂ NPs was compared with the individually prepared silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and titanium oxide nanoparticles (TiO₂ NPs). In this work, AgNPs was prepared in its solid state using Arabic gum as efficient stabilizing and reducing agent. Then, two concentrations of the as-synthesized nanoparticles were used for functionalize the cotton fabrics by pad-dry-cure treatment in the presence of fixing agent to increase the durability of treated cotton fabrics against vigorous washing cycles. The finding implied that the prepared nanoparticles were successfully synthesized in nano-size with spherical shape and homogeneity. The efficacy of the functionalized cotton fabrics with those nanoparticles were evaluated in terms of multifunctional properties including antimicrobial and UV Protection Factor (UPF) and the mechanical features before and after many washing cycles; 10, 15 and 20 times. The resultant also proved that Ag/TiO₂ NPs-treated cotton fabrics exhibited the greater values of both antimicrobial and UPF properties with enhancement in the tensile strength and elongation features. Thus, the combination between these two nanoparticles through doping reaction is suitable for imparting superior antimicrobial properties against the four tested microbial species (S. aureus, E. coli, C. albicans, and A. niger) and good UPF properties.

Biogenic Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Phagnalon niveum and Its In Vivo Anti-Diabetic Effect against Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Wistar Rats

Background: Type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a non-communicable, life-threatening syndrome that is present all over the world. The use of eco-friendly, cost-effective and green synthesised nanoparticles (NPs) as a medicinal therapy in the treatment of T2DM is an attractive option. Aim: The present study aimed to evaluate the anti-diabetic potential of the phyto-synthesised silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) obtained from Phagnalon niveum plant methanolic extract. Methods: The green synthesised AgNPs made from Phagnalon niveum plant methanolic extract were analysed by Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, and the functional groups involved in the reduction of the silver ions (Ag⁺) were characterised by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The size and crystallinity were assessed via X-ray Diffraction (XRD). The morphology of AgNPs was confirmed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The amount of silver (Ag) was estimated via energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis. An intraperitoneal injection of 200 mg alloxan per kg albino Wistar rats’ body weight, at eight weeks old and weighing 140–150 g, was used to induce diabetes mellitus (N = 25; n = 5/group). Group C: untreated normal control rats that only received distilled water, group DAC: diabetic control rats that received alloxan 200 mg/Kg body weight, DG: diabetic rats treated with glibenclamide at 0.5 mg/kg body weight, DE: diabetic rats that received methanolic P. niveum extract at 10 mg/Kg body weight, and DAgNPs: diabetic rates that received AgNPs synthesised from P. niveum at 10 mg/kg body weight. The blood glucose levels were monitored on days 0, 7, and 14, while lipid, liver, and kidney profiles were checked after dissection at the end of treatment (day 21). On the final day of the period study (day 21), an oral glucose tolerance test was carried out by administering orally 2 g/kg body weight of glucose to the respective groups, and the blood glucose level was checked. A fasting glucose level was measured using a glucometer. Urine samples were collected from each animal and analysed using lab-made assay kits for glucose, bilirubin, pH, leukocytes, and nitrite, among other factors. For statistical analyses, a one-way ANOVA and Dunnett’s test were applied. Results: The green-mediated synthesis of AgNPs using P. niveum methanolic extract produced spherical and mono-dispersed NPs with a size ranging from 12 to 28 nm (average: 21 nm). Importantly, a significant reduction of blood glucose levels and an increase in body weight, as well as a remarkable improvement in lipid, liver, and kidney profiles, were noticed. Conclusions: The biosynthesised AgNPs significantly improved the abnormalities in body weight, urine, and serum levels, indicating that it is a promising anti-diabetic agent.

Review on metal nanoparticles as nanocarriers: current challenges and perspectives in drug delivery systems

Over the past few years, nanotechnology has been attracting considerable research attention because of their outstanding mechanical, electromagnetic and optical properties. Nanotechnology is an interdisciplinary field comprising nanomaterials, nanoelectronics, and nanobiotechnology, as three areas which extensively overlap. The application of metal nanoparticles (MNPs) has drawn much attention offering significant advances, especially in the field of medicine by increasing the therapeutic index of drugs through site specificity preventing multidrug resistance and delivering therapeutic agents efficiently. Apart from drug delivery, some other applications of MNPs in medicine are also well known such as in vivo and in vitro diagnostics and production of enhanced biocompatible materials and nutraceuticals. The use of metallic nanoparticles for drug delivery systems has significant advantages, such as increased stability and half-life of drug carrier in circulation, required biodistribution, and passive or active targeting into the required target site. Green synthesis of MNPs is an emerging area in the field of bionanotechnology and provides economic and environmental benefits as an alternative to chemical and physical methods. Therefore, this review aims to provide up-to-date insights on the current challenges and perspectives of MNPs in drug delivery systems. The present review was mainly focused on the greener methods of metallic nanocarrier preparations and its surface modifications, applications of different MNPs like silver, gold, platinum, palladium, copper, zinc oxide, metal sulfide and nanometal organic frameworks in drug delivery systems.

Minocycline-Derived Silver Nanoparticles for Assessment of Their Antidiabetic Potential against Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Mice

Diabetes is a life-threatening disease, and chronic diabetes affects parts of the body including the liver, kidney, and pancreas. The root cause of diabetes is mainly associated with oxidative stress produced by reactive oxygen species. Minocycline is a drug with a multi-substituted phenol ring and has shown excellent antioxidant activities. The objective of the present study was to investigate the antidiabetic potential of minocycline-modified silver nanoparticles (mino/AgNPs) against alloxan-induced diabetic mice. The mino/AgNPs were synthesized using minocycline as reducing and stabilizing agents. UV-visible, FT-IR, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were applied for the characterization of mino/AgNPs. A 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical scavenging assay was conducted to determine the antioxidant potential of newly synthesized mino/AgNPs. The results revealed that the mino/AgNPs showed higher radical scavenging activity (IC₅₀ = 19.7 µg/mL) compared to the minocycline (IC₅₀ = 26.0 µg/mL) and ascorbic acid (IC₅₀ = 25.2 µg/mL). Further, mino/AgNPs were successfully employed to examine their antidiabetic potential against alloxan-induced diabetic mice. Hematological results showed that the mice treated with mino/AgNPs demonstrated a significant decrease in fasting blood glucose level and lipid profile compared to the untreated diabetic group. A histopathological examination confirmed that the diabetic mice treated with mino/AgNPs showed significant recovery and revival of the histo-morphology of the kidney, central vein of the liver, and islet cells of the pancreas compared to the untreated diabetic mice. Hence, mino/AgNPs have good antidiabetic potential and could be an appropriate nanomedicine to prevent the development of diabetes.

A state of the art review on the synthesis, antibacterial, antioxidant, antidiabetic and tissue regeneration activities of zinc oxide nanoparticles

Recently, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) are gaining much interest of nanobiotechnologists due to their profound biomedical applications. ZnONPs are used as antibacterial agents, which cause both gram-positive and negative bacterial cell death through the generation of reactive free radicals as well as membrane rupture. ZnONPs show excellent antioxidant properties in normal mammalian cells via the scavenging of reactive free radicals and up-regulation of antioxidant enzyme activities. Besides, it also shows hypoglycaemic effect in diabetic animals via pancreatic β-cells mediated increased insulin secretion and glucose uptake by liver, skeletal muscles and adipose tissues. Among the other potential applications, ZnONPs-induced bone and soft-tissue regeneration open a new horizon in the field of tissue engineering. Here, first we reviewed the complete synthesis routes of ZnONPs by physical, chemical, and biological pathways as well as outlined the advantages and disadvantages of the techniques. Further, we discussed the several important aspects of physicochemical analysis of ZnONPs. Additionally, we extensively reviewed the important biomedical applications of ZnONPs as antibacterial, antioxidant, and antidiabetic agents, and in the field of tissue engineering with special emphasis on their mechanisms of actions. Furthermore, the future perspectives of the ZnONPs are also discussed.

Stimulatory effect of docosahexaenoic acid alone or loaded in zinc oxide or silver nanoparticles on the expression of glucose transport pathway

The role of glucose transporters (GLUTs) in diabetes mellitus has become more prominent as a possible therapeutic target. In the present study, we aimed to compare the effect of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs), silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) alone or loaded in ZnONPs or AgNPs on insulin signaling pathway and GLUTs expression in diabetic rats. In the experimental part, rats were divided into seven groups; control, diabetic, and the other five groups were diabetic received different treatments. Fasting blood sugar (FBS), serum level of insulin, insulin resistance (IR), and serum level of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) were evaluated. In addition, insulin expression in pancreatic islets was assessed by immunohistochemical analysis, and the expression of liver GLUTs 1, 2, and 4 and liver insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) was evaluated by real-time polymerase chain reactions (RT-PCR). The results of the current study showed that ZnONPs, AgNPs, and DHA alone or loaded in ZnONPs or AgNPs attenuated levels of FBS, insulin and decreased IR in diabetic rats through enhancing the expression of GLUTs as well as IRS-1 and PI3K. Furthermore, AgNPs loaded with DHA showed the most significance with high comparability to the control group. In conclusion, this study elucidated the role of GLUTs and IRS-1 in diabetes and introduced novel characteristics of ZnONPs, AgNPs, and DHA alone or loaded in ZnONPs or AgNPs as a therapeutic modality to activate GLUTs and IRS1, which may be beneficial for diabetic patients with IR.

Facile Synthesis of Natural Anise-Based Nanoemulsions and Their Antimicrobial Activity

Anise oil was prepared in its nanoemulsion form to facilitate the penetration of microbial walls, causing microbe mortality. The penetration occurred easily owing to the reduction in its size (nm). Nanoemulsions with different concentrations of anise oil were prepared using lecithin as an emulsifying agent with the aid of an ultra-sonification process. Their morphological and chemical properties were then characterized. The promising constituents were l-Menthone (11.22%), Gurjunene (6.78%), Geranyl acetate (4.03%), Elemene (3.93%), Geranyl tiglate (3.53%), geraniol (3.48%), linalool (0.17%) as well as camphene (0.12%). Different concentrations of prepared anise oil in micro and nanoemulsions were tested as antimicrobial agents against Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus), Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli), yeast (Candida albicans) and fungi (Asperigillus niger). The findings illustrated that the anise oil-based nanoemulsion exhibited better results. Different biochemical and biological evaluations of anise oil nanoemulsions were conducted, including determining killing times, antioxidant activities (using three different methods), and total phenolics. A trial to estimate the mode of action of anise oil-based nanoemulsion as an antimicrobial agent against S. aureus and C. albicans was performed via studying the release of reducing sugars and protein and conducting scanning electron microscopy.

Docosahexaenoic acid modulates oxidative stress and monoamines levels in brain of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

The prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) is increasing in many countries. A lower prevalence of DM type 2 and other glucose metabolism disorders was observed in populations consuming larger amounts of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, existing mainly in fish. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an important signaling molecule required for the central nervous system continuous maintenance of brain functioning. The aim of this research is to highlight the role of DHA in controlling glycemic measures and modulating the oxidant/antioxidant status and levels of neurotransmitters in brains of diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced with a single s.c. injection of streptozotocin (STZ) (6.0 mg/0.5 ml/100 g body weight). Experimental male Wister rats (n=40) were randomly divided into four groups: control group, DHA, STZ-diabetic, and STZ + DHA. All rats were decapitated after 30 days to evaluate glucose and insulin levels, brain oxidative stress and also to estimate monoamines levels. DHA administration significantly improved fasting blood glucose and insulin levels compared to the DHA+STZ group and decreased 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine level in their urine. In addition, DHA treatment to STZ-treated rats showed a decrease in malondialdehyde content and advanced oxidation protein product and significantly increased glutathione content in brains of DHA + STZ-treated rats, and decreased the level of monoamines in rat's brain. To conclude: DHA modulated the elevated oxidative stress and neurotransmitters levels, and also acetylcholinesterase activity in diabetic rat brain via enhancing insulin level in serum

Oral Nano Drug Delivery Systems for the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: An Available Administration Strategy for Antidiabetic Phytocompounds

In view of the worldwide serious health threat of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), natural sources of chemotherapies have been corroborated as the promising alternatives, with the excellent antidiabetic activities, bio-safety, and more cost-effective properties. However, their clinical application is somewhat limited, because of the poor solubility, instability in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), low bioavailability, and so on. Nowadays, to develop nanoscaled systems has become a prominent strategy to improve the drug delivery of phytochemicals. In this review, we primarily summarized the intervention mechanisms of phytocompounds against T2DM and presented the recent advances in various nanosystems of antidiabetic phytocompounds. Selected nanosystems were grouped depending on their classification and structures, including polymeric NPs, lipid-based nanosystems, vesicular systems, inorganic nanocarriers, and so on. Based on this review, the state-of-the-art nanosystems for phytocompounds in T2DM treatment have been presented, suggesting the preponderance and potential of nanotechnologies.

Ficus carica assisted green synthesis of metal nanoparticles: A mini review

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Ficuc carica (Moraceae) has widely been explored for the green synthesis of metallic nanoparticles.

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Silver nanoparticles were found active against several Gram positive, Gram Negative bacteria and some fungal strains.

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Stannic oxide nanoparticles coated glassy carbon electrode determined Hg²⁺ ions sharply.

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Palladium nanoparticles decorated reduced grapheme oxide could be used in Suzuki coupling reaction.

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Phytochmeicals present in Ficus carica act as both reducing and capping agent for stabilized metallic nanoparticles.

In last decade, several attempts were made for the green and economic synthesis of metallic nanoparticle having profound applications in all the arears of science. Ficus carica (Moraceae) is a deciduous plant with edible fruits. It has been widely explored for synthesis of various metallic nanoparticles like silver, gold, stannic oxide, copper oxide, iron oxide, palladium nanoparticles using extracts of Ficus carica leafs or fruits. Phytochemical prospection so far made on Ficus carica leafs or fruits revealed the presence of variety of compounds including organic acids, fatty acids, amino acids, lower terpenes, flavonoids, coumarins etc. Researchers prepared metallic nanoparticles; characterised them by advanced analytical techniques and evaluated for particular application including, antimicrobial activity of silver nanoparticles; improved determination of mercury using stannic oxide nanoparticles coated glassy carbon electrode; carrying of chemical reaction using reduced graphene oxide decorated with palladium nanoparticles as catalyst. On this review, it can be concluded that due to presence of variety of phytocompounds, Ficus caricaplant can be used in preparation of metallic nanoparticles which could be useful in various scientific domains.

Relative larvicidal property of common oxide nanostructures against Culex quinquefasciatus

Common oxide nanostructures such as silicon-di-oxide, magnesium-oxide, zinc-oxide, and copper-oxide (CuO) having useful functional and bioactive properties have been synthesised and characterised. All these nanostructures have been found to be larvicidal towards Culex quinquefasciatus mosquito especially against lower instars in comparison with higher instars in 48 h. Only, CuO is larvicidal against late instar stages after 48 h. Moreover, CuO is larvicidal against first instar stages after 24 h (LC₅₀ 157 mg/l). However, none of these nanostructures are pupicidal. Post mortality larval morphology was found to be distorted under bright field microscopy and scanning electron microscopy images of affected larval surface appeared to be rough and uneven. Fluorescent images showed that nanostructures infiltrated inside visceral organs of larvae. Nanostructures also caused tissue oxidative stress in larvae. These results indicate that above stated oxide nanostructures are effective larvicidal agents against early instar stages of Culex larvae.

Biogenic integrated ZnO/Ag nanocomposite: Surface analysis and in vivo practices for the management of type 1 diabetes complications

In this research, a milk thistle seed extract (MTSE)-rich medium was used as a capping and reducing agent for the one-pot biosynthesis of ZnO/Ag (5 wt%) nanostructure. The sample was systematically characterized through various techniques and its strong biomolecule‒metal interface structure was supported by the results. The efficacy of the derived nanostructure (MTSE/ZnO/Ag) was evaluated in vivo on the basis of its therapeutic effects on the main complications of Type 1 diabetes (hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and insulin deficiency). For this purpose, the changes in the plasma values of fasting blood glucose, total cholesterol, total triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and insulin in alloxan-diabetic Wistar male rats were compared with those in healthy and untreated diabetic controls after a treatment period of 16 days. The antidiabetic results of MTSE/ZnO/Ag were compared with those obtained from pristine ZnO, MTSE, and insulin therapies. The health conditions of the rats with Type 1 diabetes were significantly enhanced after treatment with MTSE/ZnO/Ag (p < 0.05), which is owing to the enhanced interface structure and participatory functions of the united compartments of MTSE/ZnO/Ag.

Plant-Based Antidiabetic Nanoformulations: The Emerging Paradigm for Effective Therapy

Diabetes mellitus is a life-threatening metabolic syndrome. Over the past few decades, the incidence of diabetes has climbed exponentially. Several therapeutic approaches have been undertaken, but the occurrence and risk still remain unabated. Several plant-derived small molecules have been proposed to be effective against diabetes and associated vascular complications via acting on several therapeutic targets. In addition, the biocompatibility of these phytochemicals increasingly enhances the interest of exploiting them as therapeutic negotiators. However, poor pharmacokinetic and biopharmaceutical attributes of these phytochemicals largely restrict their clinical usefulness as therapeutic agents. Several pharmaceutical attempts have been undertaken to enhance their compliance and therapeutic efficacy. In this regard, the application of nanotechnology has been proven to be the best approach to improve the compliance and clinical efficacy by overturning the pharmacokinetic and biopharmaceutical obstacles associated with the plant-derived antidiabetic agents. This review gives a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the nanoformulations of phytochemicals in the management of diabetes and associated complications. The effects of nanosizing on pharmacokinetic, biopharmaceutical and therapeutic profiles of plant-derived small molecules, such as curcumin, resveratrol, naringenin, quercetin, apigenin, baicalin, luteolin, rosmarinic acid, berberine, gymnemic acid, emodin, scutellarin, catechins, thymoquinone, ferulic acid, stevioside, and others have been discussed comprehensively in this review.

Homocysteine and Asymmetrical Dimethylarginine in Diabetic Rats Treated with Docosahexaenoic Acid-Loaded Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles

Hyperglycemia, the hallmark of diabetes mellitus, is considered one of the endothelial dysfunction risk factors, the main reason of vascular complication. In this study, we aimed to evaluate homocysteine (Hcy) and asymmetrical dimethylarginine (ADMA) levels in diabetic rats and the possibility to attenuate the elevation of these two parameters by supplementation of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) alone or loaded zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) to improve endothelial dysfunction in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Forty male albino rats weighing 180-200 g were classified as control, diabetic, diabetic treated with DHA, and diabetic treated with DHA-loaded zinc oxide nanoparticles (DHA/ZnONPs) groups. Fasting blood glucose, insulin, ADMA, Hcy, and nitric oxide (NO) were estimated. Fatty acids (linoleic acid (LA), arachidonic acid (AA), DHA, α-linolenic acid (ALA), and oleic acid (OA)) were also evaluated by reversed phase HPLC using a UV detector. The results showed that fasting blood sugar, insulin resistance, LA, AA, OA, ADMA, and Hcy increased significantly in diabetic rats compared with control while fasting insulin, DHA, ALA, and NO decreased significantly in diabetic rats. In both treated groups, fasting blood sugar, insulin resistance, LA, AA, OA, ADMA, and Hcy significantly decreased as compared with the diabetic group while fasting insulin, DHA, ALA, and NO were significantly increased. In conclusion, DHA and DHA/ZnONP supplementation protect against diabetic complications and improve endothelial dysfunction as well as hyperhomocysteinemia in diabetes. DHA/ZnONP-treated group appeared more efficient than DHA alone.

The efficient biogeneration of Ag and NiO nanoparticles from VPLE and a study of the anti-diabetic properties of the extract

Vitex pseudo-negundo leaf extract (VPLE) is used to mediate the green biosynthesis of Ag and NiO nanoparticles in aqueous solutions under mild conditions. The synthesized nanoparticles, with a narrow size range and good distribution, are characterized by means of powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques. SEM and TEM micrographs proved formation of mostly spherical or ellipsoidal nanoparticles with little agglomeration, and the average particle size was less than 20–35 nm for both types of nanoparticle. Then, the protective role of VPLE toward the liver is assessed in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. For this purpose, diabetes is induced in rats through the intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin, and VPLE is administered via oral gavage for 6 weeks. This study suggests that VPLE can ameliorate biochemical and structural changes in the livers of diabetic rats, showing that VPLE can improve the condition of rats with diabetic hepatopathy via a decrease in oxidative stress and an enhancement in the activity of antioxidant enzymes in the liver.

Vitex pseudo-negundo leaf extract (VPLE) is a mediator for the green biosynthesis of Ag and NiO nanoparticles, and its protective effects are assessed in the livers of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.