Succinyl Curcumin Conjugated Chitosan Polymer-Prodrug Nanomicelles: A Potential Treatment for Type-II Diabetes in Diabetic Balb/C Mice

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder marked by elevated blood sugar levels, leading to organ dysfunction. Curcumin, derived from turmeric, exhibits promise in managing type II diabetes. Nanomicelles were created by conjugating curcumin with chitosan through succinic anhydride. Succinyl-curcumin, the resultant compound, was esterified with chitosan to form a polymer prodrug conjugate. Nanomicelles, formed via dialysis, were spherical with a hydrodynamic size of 49.37 nm. In vitro release studies revealed 97% curcumin release at pH 5 in 7 days. A 21-day experiment on diabetic mice compared nanomicelles, standard drug, and free curcumin's impact on fasting blood glucose. The study showcased gradual, controlled curcumin release from nanomicelles, suggesting their potential in type II diabetes treatment.