Synthesis and characterization of alginate coated zinc calcium phosphate nanoparticles for intestinal delivery of insulin

Nanosized calcium phosphates studied as drug delivery systems are highly compatible with the various drugs like insulin, antibiotics etc. Zinc is an essential trace element that plays a crucial role in the synthesis, storage and release of insulin in a human body. Therefore, an attempt has been made to develop zinc modified calcium phosphate nanoparticles (less than 100 nm) as carriers for intestinal delivery of insulin. The insulin loaded nanoparticles were coated with pH sensitive alginate. These pH sensitive nanoparticles released insulin in the intestinal medium, and the conformation of released insulin was stable. The blood glucose level of diabetic rats came to normal on administration of the formulation. With the beneficial effect of zinc reported on diabetic patients, the present system seems to be an excellent carrier for intestinal delivery of insulin.

► Zinc modified calcium phosphate nanoparticles with a particles size less than 100 nm.
► Insulin can be loaded into these nanoparticles with out causing any conformation changes to insulin.
► Calcium alginate coated zinc calcium phosphate nanoparticles can deliver insulin in the intestinal region.
► This formulation can reduce the increased blood glucose level of diabetic rat to normal on oral administration.