Plant-Derived Bioactives in Nano-Platforms for Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome Therapy
Diabetes and metabolic syndrome (MetS) are interconnected metabolic disorders characterized by hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, central obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, oxidative stress, and chronic inflammation. Plant-derived bioactives including polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, saponins, and carotenoids demonstrate multi-targeted actions relevant to glycemic control, lipid regulation, endothelial protection, and anti-inflammatory modulation. However, their clinical utility is limited by poor aqueous solubility, low bioavailability, rapid metabolism, and non-specific tissue distribution. Nano-platforms provide innovative solutions by enhancing solubility, stability, controlled release, and tissue-specific delivery. Polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, nanoemulsions, dendrimers, and biomimetic vesicles have been engineered to optimize pharmacokinetics and improve metabolic targeting. These systems enable targeted modulation of insulin-resistant tissues, hepatic lipid metabolism, adipose inflammation, and pancreatic β-cell preservation. Preclinical evidence demonstrates superior glycemic control, improved lipid profiles, reduced oxidative stress, and attenuation of vascular dysfunction compared with conventional formulations. Despite promising results, challenges remain regarding scalability, safety profiling, extract standardization, and regulatory approval. This review examines mechanistic foundations, nano-platform design strategies, therapeutic evidence, safety considerations, and translational prospects of plant-derived bioactives in advanced nano-delivery systems for diabetes and metabolic syndrome management.