Gelatine nanoparticles encapsulating three edible plant extracts as potential nanonutraceutical agents against type 2 diabetes mellitus

Aim: To optimise, and characterise gelatine nanoparticles (GNPs) encapsulating plant extracts and evaluate the glucose-lowering potential. Methods: GNPs encapsulating plant extracts were prepared by desolvation method followed by adsorption. The GNPs were characterised by loading efficiency, loading capacity, particle size, zeta potential, SEM and FTIR. The glucose-lowering activity of GNPs was determined using oral glucose tolerance test in high-fat diet fed streptozotocin-induced Wistar rats. Results: Loading efficiency and capacity, particle mean diameter, and zeta potential of optimised GNPs 72.45 +/- 13.03% w/w, 53.05 +/- 26.16% w/w, 517 +/- 48 nm and (-)23.43 +/- 9.96 mV respectively. GNPs encapsulating aqueous extracts of C. grandis, S. auriculata, and ethanol 70% v/v extracts of M. koenigii showed glucose-lowering activity by 17.62%, 11.96% and 13.73% (p < 0.05) compared to the non-encapsulated extracts. FTIR analysis confirmed the encapsulation of phytoconstituents into GNPs. SEM imaging showed spherical GNPs (174 +/- 46 nm). Conclusion: GNPs encapsulating plant extracts show promising potential to be developed as nanonutraceuticals against diabetes.