Calcium Nanoliposome Improves Glycemic Control in a Mouse Diabetes Mellitus Model.

INTRODUCTION

Intracellular calcium in pancreatic beta cells plays a crucial role in insulin synthesis and secretion. Diabetes impairs this calcium-mediated action, necessitating an effective delivery system such as liposomes to facilitate calcium uptake.

METHODS

Calcium lactate nanoliposomes (6.25 mg/mL) were prepared via the thin-film hydration method using lecithin and cholesterol as bilayer lipids. Their glucose-lowering efficacy was tested in hyperglycemic mice induced by oral glucose (1 g/kg) and intraperitoneal streptozotocin (45 mg/kg). Pancreatic calcium levels were measured using X-ray fluorescence to verify calcium delivery to beta cells.

RESULTS

The nanoliposomes exhibited a diameter of 172.1 nm, zeta potential of -53.45 mV, polydispersity index of 0.203, and pH 7.2. Entrapment efficiency was 93.42%, with stable pH and particle size over six cycles. Treatment with calcium nanoliposomes significantly reduced blood glucose levels in both diabetic and glucose-loaded mice. Pancreatic calcium concentrations were higher in animals receiving calcium nanoliposomes compared to controls.

DISCUSSION: Calcium nanoliposomes induced a significant glucose reduction relative to controls (empty liposomes, distilled water, and calcium in distilled water). Encapsulation within liposomal vesicles enhanced calcium delivery to pancreatic beta cells, increasing intracellular calcium and stimulating insulin production and release. This was corroborated by elevated pancreatic calcium levels observed via X-ray fluorescence in treated animals.

CONCLUSION

Calcium nanoliposomes effectively improve glycemic control in diabetic and glucosechallenged animal models by enhancing calcium delivery to pancreatic beta cells.