Abstract:
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is recognized as one of the major health diseases around the
globe, characterized by insulin dysfunction and abnormally high blood glucose levels.
The condition requires immediate alternatives to allow for effective management of
DM. Modern nanoformulations, such as nanofiber (NF)-based systems made from
natural polysaccharides, could mark the beginning of a new phase in hyperglycemia
management. Drawing Inspiration from the natural mechanism of action of dietary
fibers in managing hyperglycemia, the goal of the current study was to create nanofibers
based on Xylan (extracted from Basil seed mucilage) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)
(Xylan:PVA 50:50) cross-linked with 1% glutaraldehyde (Glu), These nanofibers were
characterized by FT-IR, XRD and SEM and surface charge was determined by using
DLS and Zeta Analyzer. The Glucose uptake study and swelling and degradation
behavior of fabricated nanofibers was observed in different fluids including SBF
(Simulated Body fluid) having pH=7.61, SGF (Simulated Gastric Fluid) having pH=2,
SIF (Simulated Intestinal Fluid) having pH=6.68 containing 2.5mg/ml of d-Glucose.
The nanofibers showed efficient glucose uptake and sustained swelling and degradation
in the SGF which confirms that nanofibers will easily move into the intestine without
any premature degradation. In the SIF, the nanofibers showed rapid swelling and
biodegradation which confirms that nanofibers will absorb more glucose in intestinal
fluid as most of the digestion takes place there. A similar trend was observed in the case
of SBF with moderate rate of swelling and degradation. The study demonstrates that
Xylan/PVA/Glu nanofibers are stable in acidic pH, ensuring safe gastric transit, and can
effectively absorb glucose in the intestine. This offers a novel and promising approach
for hyperglycemia management in DM.
