Intestinal absorption of insulin nanoparticles: Contribution of M cells

Physicochemical properties of insulin nanoparticles (particles not shown to scale), including the polymer type, size, charge and tendency to aggregate influence their intestinal absorption. Theoretically, there are several possible mechanisms of transport: A) transcytosis through enterocytes; B) receptor-mediated transcytosis; C) paracellular transport; and finally, D) transcellular pathway used by the M cells in the Peyer's patches. Following intestinal absorption, the insulin-loaded nanoparticles may flow into the bloodstream or lymphatic circulation.174