PLGA-Based Polymeric Nanoparticles for Voglibose Delivery in Antidiabetic Therapy

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder requiring innovative therapeutic approaches. Voglibose, an effective α-glucosidase inhibitor, has limitations, including low solubility and a short duration of action when taken as a tablet. Polymeric nanoparticles, particularly PLGA (Poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid), offer promising platforms for sustained drug release and improved bioavailability. This study aimed to develop and evaluate PLGA-based nanoparticles for delivering voglibose, enhancing its therapeutic efficacy, and providing sustained release for up to 24 hours. PLGA nanoparticles loaded with voglibose were prepared using the double-emulsification solvent evaporation method. The formulations were optimized by varying the polymer-to-drug ratio and stabilizer concentration. Characterization included particle size analysis, zeta potential measurement, drug entrapment efficiency, in vitro drug release, and in vivo antidiabetic efficacy in STZ-induced diabetic rats. Particle sizes ranged from 151.5 to 491.2 nm, with formulation PF8 demonstrating the smallest size and highest stability. Drug entrapment efficiency reached up to 83.3%, with PF8 emerging as the optimal formulation. In vitro studies showed sustained drug release for up to 24 hours, with PF8 achieving 91.5% cumulative release. In vivo evaluations revealed significant reductions in blood glucose levels in diabetic rats, with PF8 performing comparably to the standard voglibose tablet. PLGA-based nanoparticles successfully enhanced the bioavailability of voglibose and provided sustained release, highlighting their potential as a novel delivery system for anti-diabetic therapy. Further studies are needed to validate clinical applications and optimize formulation parameters.