An orally administered glucose-responsive polymeric complex for high-efficiency and safe delivery of insulin in mice and pigs.

ABSTRACT: Contrary to current insulin formulations, endogenous insulin has direct access to the portal vein, regulating glucose metabolism in the liver with minimal hypoglycaemia. Here we report the synthesis of an amphiphilic diblock copolymer comprising a glucose-responsive positively charged segment and polycarboxybetaine. The mixing of this polymer with insulin facilitates the formation of worm-like micelles, achieving highly efficient absorption by the gastrointestinal tract and the creation of a glucose-responsive reservoir in the liver. Under hyperglycaemic conditions, the polymer triggers a rapid release of insulin, establishing a portal-to-peripheral insulin gradient-similarly to endogenous insulin-for the safe regulation of blood glucose. This insulin formulation exhibits a dose-dependent

SUBMITTER: Ji K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11646558 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature