Quantum Dots Boost the Effectiveness of Diabetes Treatment

By Dr Silpaja Chandrasekar, PhDReviewed by Susha Cheriyedath, M.Sc.Oct 29 2024

In a paper published in Pharmaceuticals, researchers have introduced a promising method to enhance the bioavailability and therapeutic effects of metformin, a first-line treatment for type II diabetes. This approach involves synthesizing metformin carbon quantum dots (MetCQDs) through a microwave-assisted process, offering a potentially more effective way to manage blood glucose levels with fewer side effects.

Metformin plays a critical role in diabetes management by improving insulin sensitivity and decreasing hepatic glucose production. However, its limited bioavailability necessitates frequent doses, sometimes leading to unwanted side effects.

Recent advances in nanotechnology have identified carbon quantum dots (CQDs) as promising drug carriers due to their stability and low toxicity, making them an ideal candidate for delivering metformin more efficiently. This study leverages CQDs to maximize metformin’s therapeutic impact, potentially transforming diabetes treatment.

MetCQDs: Synthesis and Characterization

The study utilized specialized materials and methodologies for the synthesis and analysis of MetCQDs. Citric acid monohydrate (carbon source) and polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350) from Sigma Aldrich acted as stabilizing agents, with metformin hydrochloric acid (HCl) supplied by SANOVEL.

Using a microwave reactor, MetCQDs were synthesized in a rapid, one-step process at 160 °C for 20 minutes and then cooled to ambient temperature. Characterization involved particle morphology visualization through transmission electron microscopy (TEM), particle size distribution with the LiteSizer 500, and spectrofluorometric profiling, with quantum yield calculated relative to quinine sulfate.

In vivo efficacy was tested on Wistar albino rats under ethical guidelines from Ankara University’s Faculty of Pharmacy, with animals provided by the Kobay Animal Study Center. Diabetes was induced via streptozotocin (STZ), and blood glucose levels were monitored using a Bayer Glucometer Elite.

Four groups—control, diabetic control, Met-treated, and MetCQD-treated—allowed comprehensive comparisons of hypoglycemic effects. Blood glucose was monitored periodically, with oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT) and fasting glucose levels measured before and after MetCQD administration.

Following treatment, the animals were humanely euthanized, and pancreatic and liver tissues were collected for histopathological examination. Samples were stained with hematoxylin and eosin to facilitate microscopic analysis. Each sample was systematically assessed for atrophic changes in pancreatic islets and necrotic or degenerative alterations in liver cells, with findings rated on a severity scale from mild to severe.

Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software. The Kruskal–Wallis test was applied to detect significant differences across groups, while the Mann–Whitney U test was used for specific inter-group comparisons. Statistical significance was determined with a p-value threshold of <0.05.

Production and Benefits of MetCQDs

MetCQDs were synthesized through a simple and accessible one-step method. For the synthesis, 0.2 g of citric acid monohydrate was used as a carbon source, combined with 0.5 g of Met, which served both as a heteroatom and an active pharmaceutical ingredient. This process was cost-effective and efficient, yielding MetCQDs that emitted a blue-green fluorescence under UV light at 365 nm, confirming successful synthesis. Analysis with TEM showed that particle sizes were below 10 nm, while fluorescence spectrophotometry verified optimal emissions.

Characterization of MetCQDs included assessments of quantum yield and stability. Using quinine sulfate as a reference, the quantum yield of MetCQDs was determined to be 80.3 %. Stability tests indicated consistent particle size, distribution, and zeta potential across different temperatures and humidity conditions, with a projected shelf life exceeding two years.

In vivo studies demonstrated the efficacy of MetCQDs in reducing blood glucose levels in Wistar albino rats, showing a more pronounced hypoglycemic effect than Met alone. Regular blood glucose monitoring revealed significant reductions post-administration. Treatment with MetCQDs also supported regeneration and improvement in pancreatic and liver tissues, underscoring their therapeutic potential.

Conclusion

In summary, MetCQDs were prepared using citric acid as the carbon source, with metformin serving dual roles as a heteroatom and active pharmaceutical molecule—a novel application. The formulations demonstrated significant hypoglycemic effects and reduced liver fat.

This study indicates that quantum dot formulations of active substances could provide innovative treatment alternatives by allowing drug molecules to perform multiple functions. However, further research is needed to evaluate potential long-term effects.

Journal Reference

Camlik, G., et al. (2024). Oral Active Carbon Quantum Dots for Diabetes. Pharmaceuticals, 17:10, 1395. DOI: 10.3390/ph17101395, https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8247/17/10/1395

Disclaimer: The views expressed here are those of the author expressed in their private capacity and do not necessarily represent the views of AZoM.com Limited T/A AZoNetwork the owner and operator of this website. This disclaimer forms part of the Terms and conditions of use of this website.