Formulation and Characterization of CCD-based Optimized Geraniol-loaded Antidiabetic Niosomes

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery
• Pharmacology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) is a major health concern with unmet needs in glycemic control.
• Geraniol, a natural compound, has anti-diabetic potential but suffers from poor water solubility.
• Niosomal encapsulation offers a strategy to overcome geraniol's solubility limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To formulate and optimize geraniol-loaded niosomes using a Central Composite Design (CCD).
• To evaluate the in vivo antidiabetic efficacy and pharmacokinetic profile of the optimized formulation.

Main Methods:

• Niosomes were prepared via the thin-film hydration technique.
• CCD was employed to optimize Span 40 and cholesterol concentrations.
• Antidiabetic effects were assessed in a streptozotocin-induced diabetic mouse model.

Main Results:

• Optimized niosomes exhibited a particle size of 287.7 nm and 80.13% encapsulation efficiency.
• Geraniol-loaded niosomes significantly reduced blood glucose levels from 275 to 150 mg/dL over 21 days.
• Pharmacokinetic studies showed a 1.5- to 4-fold increase in AUC, AUMC, and MRT compared to plain geraniol.

Conclusions:

• Geraniol-loaded niosomes enhance geraniol's bioavailability and provide sustained drug release.
• The niosomal formulation demonstrates significant potential as an effective therapeutic strategy for Type 2 Diabetes management.
• Further clinical research is warranted to explore the therapeutic application of these niosomes.