Improved Antidiabetic Potential of Quercetin-Loaded Chitosan-Lecithin Nanoparticles for Effective Glycemic Control

IntroductionDiabetes mellitus is a major global health challenge, causing significant morbidity and mortality. Quercetin, a natural flavonoid, has potential antidiabetic and insulin-sensitizing effects. However, its clinical use is limited by poor solubility and bioavailability. We developed the quercetin (QTN) loaded chitosan-lecithin nanoparticles (QTN/LCHS-NPs) to enhance its therapeutic profile.Materials and MethodsQTN/LCHS-NPs were synthesized using a 20:1 lecthin:chitosan ratio. Characterization included encapsulation efficiency, particle size, and zeta potential. In vitro, drug release studies were conducted to evaluate release kinetics. In vivo, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies were performed in male Wistar rats to assess bioavailability, antidiabetic activity, and lipid-modulating effects.ResultsThe optimized QTN/LCHS-NP formulation exhibited 79.72% encapsulation efficiency, diameter of 130.1 nm, and a zeta potential of 23.46 mV. In vitro release studies showed a biphasic pattern, with an initial burst release followed by a sustained release of 86.10% over 24 h. Bioavailability (AUC: 167.22 h⋅µg/mL) exceeded free QTN (AUC: 26.2 h⋅µg/mL). Fasting blood glucose decreased from 292.9 to 107.7 mg/dL, along with improved lipid profiles.ConclusionQTN/LCHS-NPs significantly enhanced the oral bioavailability of quercetin and improved its antidiabetic and antihyperlipidemic effects, demonstrating their potential as an effective delivery system for addressing metabolic disorders.