Distribution, transition, adhesion and release of insulin loaded nanoparticles in the gut of rats

The purpose of this work was to investigate distribution, transition, bioadhesion and release behaviors of insulin loaded pH-sensitive nanoparticles in the gut of rats, as well as the effects of viscosity agent on them. Insulin was labeled with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC). The FITC-insulin solution and FITC-insulin nanoparticle aqueous dispersions with or without hydropropylmethylcellulose (HPMC, 0.2%, 0.4%, or 0.8% (w/v)) were orally administered to rats, respectively. The amounts of FITC-insulin in both the lumen content and the intestinal mucosa were quantified by a spectrofluorimeter. The release profiles in the gut were plotted by the percentages of FITC-insulin released versus time. FITC-insulin nanoparticle aqueous dispersion showed similar stomach but lower intestine empty rates, and enhanced intestinal mucosa adhesion in comparison with FITC-insulin solution. Addition of the HPMC reduced the stomach and intestine empty rates, enhanced the adhesion of FITC-insulin to the intestine mucosa. The release of FITC-insulin from nanoparticles in the gut showed an S-shape profile, and addition of HPMC prolonged the release half-life from 0.77 to 1.51 h. It was concluded that the behaviors of pH-sensitive nanoparticles tested in gastrointestinal tract of rats and the addition of HPMC were favorable to the absorption of the drug loaded.