Insulin-coated gold nanoparticles as a new concept for personalized and adjustable glucose regulation. Issue 48 (19th November 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Shilo, Malka; Berenstein, Peter; Dreifuss, Tamar; Nash, Yuval; Goldsmith, Guy; Kazimirsky, Gila; Motiei, Menachem; Frenkel, Dan; Brodie, Chaya; Popovtzer, Rachela
• Is Part Of: Nanoscale. Volume 7:Issue 48(2015)
• Page Start: 20489
• Page End: 20496
• Publication Date: 2015-11-19
• Subjects: Nanoscience -- Periodicals; Nanotechnology -- Periodicals; 620.505
• DOI: 10.1039/c5nr04881h
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2040-3364

Abstract

Abstract : This study demonstrates the adjustable and prolonged effect of insulin-GNPs on glucose regulation, which can potentially be used for personalized diabetic treatment. Abstract : Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease, characterized by high blood glucose levels, affecting millions of people around the world. Currently, the main treatment for diabetes requires multiple daily injections of insulin and self-monitoring of blood glucose levels, which markedly affect patients' quality of life. In this study we present a novel strategy for controlled and prolonged glucose regulation, based on the administration of insulin-coated gold nanoparticles (INS-GNPs). We show that both intravenous and subcutaneous injection of INS-GNPs into a mouse model of type 1 diabetes decreases blood glucose levels for periods over 3 times longer than free insulin. We further showed that conjugation of insulin to GNPs prevented its rapid degradation by the insulin-degrading-enzyme, and thus allows controlled and adjustable bio-activity. Moreover, we assessed different sizes and concentrations of INS-GNPs, and found that both parameters have a critical effect in vivo, enabling specific adjustment of blood glucose levels. These findings have the potential to improve patient compliance in diabetes mellitus.