The application of nanomaterials as drug delivery systems for the treatment of diabetes and diabetic wound healing

Abstract

Diabetes refers to a group of metabolic disorders characterized by hyperglycemia. Oral and subcutaneous antidiabetic drugs such as insulin, glipalamide, and metformin can temporarily balance blood sugar levels. However, long-term administration of these treatments is associated with adverse side effects on the kidney and liver. In addition, due to excessive production of reactive oxygen species and damage to the macrovascular system caused by hyperglycemia, diabetes can increase the risk of side effects. Fortunately, recent advances in nanomaterials have provided new opportunities for the treatment of diabetes. Nanoparticles are particles in the nanometer range that can be obtained from various materials (such as polysaccharides, synthetic polymers, lipids) and usually aim to improve the physicochemical stability of the loaded drug and increasing its bioavailability. Nanoparticles are smaller in size and have a high surface-to-volume ratio, which increases the possibility of biological interaction and penetration at the wound site. They are ideal for sustained local delivery of drugs, cell proliferation, angiogenesis, drug delivery, and effective wound healing. In addition, nanoparticles have the ability to deliver one or more therapeutic drug molecules such as growth factors, nucleic acids, antibiotics, and antioxidants, which can then be released in a sustained manner in the target tissue. This article provides an overview of the current nanomaterials explored for the treatment of diabetes and diabetic wounds, which may provide a good perspective for the development of new nanomaterials with novel functions and properties for the treatment of diabetes.