Injectable nano-network gels for diabetes treatment

摘要

A system for "smart" delivery of a therapeutic, prophylactic or diagnostic agent, such as glucose-mediated delivery of insulin through an injectable nano-network consisting of oppositely-charged dextran nanoparticles encapsulating insulin and glucose-specific enzymes forming a gel-like 3D scaffold. As demonstrated by the examples, the system effectively dissociates to release insulin in a hyperglycemic condition, where the catalytic conversion of glucose into gluconic acid and the subsequent degradation of polymeric matrix are facilitated. This formulation design provides a delivery strategy for both self-regulated and long-term diabetes management.