Existing insulin delivery methods, such as injections, can sometimes cause a dangerous drop in blood glucose levels. To find a safer method, the scientists synthesised hydrogels. Credit: betaverso/ iStock / Getty Images Plus
A specific type of hydrogel releases insulin in a sustained way in response to elevated blood glucose levels, mimicking insulin secretion by healthy pancreatic cells1.
The hydrogel is non-toxic and can be delivered via a microneedle or swallowed like a pill, says a team at the Indian Institute of Technology-Bhilai in Chhattisgarh.
Existing insulin delivery methods, such as injections, can sometimes cause a dangerous drop in blood glucose levels. To find a safer method, the scientists, led by Suchetan Pal, synthesised hydrogels by cross-linking chitosan nanoparticles with polyvinyl alcohol using an organic compound.
They then tested the efficiency of different hydrogels at releasing insulin and a specific sodium salt as model drugs. The team found that one of the hydrogels, called CPHG3, was the most potent drug carrier, releasing almost 97% insulin at an acidic pH level.
The insulin-loaded hydrogel lowered blood glucose levels in diabetic rats without causing abnormally low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
The hydrogel stretched without breaking, but when it was split in two the pieces joined up again. Together with an ability to heal any deformity, this suggests the hydrogel has self-healing properties.
Such a hydrogel could enhance convenience and safety for diabetic patients who need insulin therapy, the researchers say.
