Natural Polysaccharide Based Nanofibers for Diabetes Management

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.