KIU Publications

Diabetes mellitus (DM) remains a global metabolic disorder characterized by chronic hyperglycemia and progressive microvascular and macrovascular complications. Although plant-derived bioactive compounds have demonstrated promising antidiabetic properties including insulin sensitization, β-cell protection, α-glucosidase inhibition, antioxidant activity, and anti-inflammatory effects, their clinical translation is often limited by poor solubility, low bioavailability, rapid metabolism, and lack of tissue specificity. Nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems offer innovative solutions to these limitations by enhancing stability, controlled release, targeted delivery, and therapeutic efficacy. Nano-enabled phytotherapy integrates phytochemicals with nanoscale carriers such as polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, dendrimers, and metal-based nanocarriers to improve pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles. These systems enable organ-specific targeting, particularly pancreatic β-cells, hepatic tissue, adipose tissue, and skeletal muscle, thereby improving glycemic control and reducing systemic toxicity. Additionally, nanoformulations may facilitate synergistic multi-compound delivery and overcome biological barriers, including gastrointestinal degradation and first-pass metabolism. This review explores the mechanistic basis of plant-derived antidiabetic compounds, the design of nanocarrier systems for targeted delivery, preclinical and emerging clinical evidence, safety considerations, regulatory challenges, and future translational perspectives. Nano-enabled phytotherapy represents a promising frontier in precision diabetes management.