Preparation and characterization of CS-ZnO-NC nanoparticles for imparting anti-diabetic activities in experimental diabetes

Curcumin, an active polyphenol of the golden spice turmeric and extensive research from preclinical and clinical studies has delineated the pharmaceutical uses of Curcumin against age-related diseases; especially type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The major challenge is to obtain optimum therapeutic levels of curcumin. In the present study, the anti-diabetic drug curcumin-metal (ZnO) complex is loaded with chitosan (CS) (CS-ZnO-NC). The CS-ZnO-NC nanoparticles can be used for controlled drug delivery of anti-diabetic drugs with reduced side effects and enhanced bioavailability. The prepared nanoparticles were characterized by Particle size analyzer, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FI-IR), and Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). CS-ZnO-NC nanoparticles exhibited the mean particle size of 43 nm. Besides, the anti-diabetic and anti-oxidant activity of the prepared nanoparticles was also studied. Daily administration of CS-ZnO-NC nanoparticles regularly for 28 days resulted in significant reduction of blood glucose levels in diabetic rats and also maintains lipid profile towards normal. Also, CS-ZnO-NC nanoparticles showed anti-oxidant activity. CS-ZnO-NC nanoparticles could improve the solubility of curcumin and prolong its retention in the systemic circulation.