An Intelligent Nanoscale Insulin Delivery System

Molecules. 2018 Nov 11;23(11):2945. doi: 10.3390/molecules23112945.

Abstract

Insulin injection relies on strict blood glucose monitoring. However, existing techniques and algorithms for blood glucose monitoring cannot be completed in a timely way. In this study, we have developed a new intelligent glucose-sensitive insulin delivery system to stabilize blood glucose levels in the body. This system does not require real-time detection of blood glucose. First, we successfully synthesized a nanoscale material called PAM-PAspPBA-b-PEG by using chemical methods. We then conducted TEM, DLS, and ¹H-NMR analyses to characterize the physicochemical properties, such as size, molecular composition, and configuration of the nanomaterial. We verified the glucose responsibility of the insulin loading nanoscale material in vitro and evaluated its safety and effect on mice in vivo. Results showed that insulin-loaded PAM-PAspPBA-b-PEG is glucose-sensitive, safer and more effective than regular insulin injection. This study provides a basis for future development of smart insulin delivery systems.

Keywords: PAM-PAspPBA-b-PEG; diabetes; drug delivery; insulin.

MeSH terms

  • Blood Glucose / drug effects
  • Boronic Acids / chemistry
  • Dendrimers
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Drug Carriers* / chemistry
  • Drug Delivery Systems*
  • Insulin / administration & dosage*
  • Insulin / chemistry
  • Nanoparticles* / chemistry
  • Nanoparticles* / ultrastructure
  • Particle Size
  • Peptides / chemistry
  • Polyamines / chemistry

Substances

  • Blood Glucose
  • Boronic Acids
  • Dendrimers
  • Drug Carriers
  • Insulin
  • Peptides
  • Poly(amidoamine)
  • Polyamines
  • polyaspartate
  • benzeneboronic acid