Mucin-Grafted Polyethylene Glycol Microparticles Enable Oral Insulin Delivery for Improving Diabetic Treatment
Mumuni A. Momoh, Ugwu E. Calister, Nafiu Aminu, Franklin Chimaobi Kenechukwu, Adedokun Musiliu Oluseun, Mohammed Rageeb Mohammed Usman, Barikisu Abdulmumuni, Oyeniyi Y. James, Kenneth C. Ofokansi, Anthony A. Attama, Emmanuel C. Ibezim, David Díaz Díaz
Abstract
In this study, different ratios of mucin-grafted polyethylene-glycol-based microparticles were prepared and evaluated both in vitro and in vivo as carriers for the oral delivery of insulin. Characterization measurements showed that the insulin-loaded microparticles display irregular porosity and shape. The encapsulation efficiency and loading capacity of insulin were >82% and 18%, respectively. The release of insulin varied between 68% and 92% depending on the microparticle formulation. In particular, orally administered insulin-loaded microparticles resulted in a significant fall of blood glucose levels, as compared to insulin solution. Subcutaneous administration showed a faster, albeit not sustained, glucose fall within a short time as compared to the polymeric microparticle-based formulations. These results indicate the possible oral delivery of insulin using this combination of polymers.