Employment of Squash-synthesized Nanoselenium and Chitosan as Nanocomposites for Delivering Insulin

Abstract

The research investigates the potential of utilizing nanocomposites of squash mucilage (SqM), chitosan (Cht) and biogenic selenium (SeNPs) nanoparticles as nanocarriers for improving oral delivery of insulin and controlling diabetes. The research aims to explore the synthesis and characterization of these nanocomposites, evaluating their biocompatibility, stability, and encapsulation efficiency for insulin. The study further investigates the release kinetics of insulin from the SqM, SeNPs and Cht nanocomposites, assessing their ability to provide sustained and controlled release. The conjugation of SeNPs mediated by SqM with Cht for drug delivery purposes represents a promising strategy in pharmaceutical research. The interactions between molecules were validated with FTIR (infrared) analyses. The SqM/SeNPs had 13.46 nm mean diameter, with negative (- 28.61 mV) surface charges. Three nanoformulations from Cht: SqM/SeNPs were constructed (i.e. ILNs-1, ILNs-2, and ILNs-3), with 1:2, 1:1, 2:1 ratios, respectively. The average sizes of nanocomposites were 395.93, 235.43 and 308.72 nm, whereas their surface charges were -26.41, -11.46 and +18.62 mV, respectively. The electron microscopy (TEM and SEM) confirmed the nanomaterials homogenous structures and dispersion. The insulin encapsulation efficiency and loading capacity with ILNs-3 were 75.7% and 4.76%, respectively. The insulin release from ILNs-3 at different pH values (1.2 and 6.8) were 35% and 68%, respectively, after two hours. The in vivo pharmacological assessment appointed the effectual sustained action of ILNs-loaded insulin for lowering glucose levels up to 24 h of oral administration. This innovative approach develops the natural properties of SqM and the versatile characteristics of Cht to develop a biocompatible and effective carrier system. The synergistic interaction between these components opens new possibilities for the development of drug delivery systems with improved efficacy, reduced toxicity, and increased patient compliance.