ANTIDIABETIC POTENTIAL OF ZINC SELENIUM NANOCOMPOSITES IN DIABETES MANAGEMENT: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by persistent hyperglycemia resulting from insulin resistance, impaired insulin secretion, or both. The global prevalence of diabetes continues to rise, necessitating the development of innovative therapeutic strategies to improve glycemic control and mitigate complications. Conventional antidiabetic therapies, including oral hypoglycemic agents and insulin injections, often face limitations such as poor bioavailability, side effects, and the inability to restore normal pancreatic function. In recent years, nanotechnology has emerged as a transformative approach in diabetes management, offering targeted drug delivery, enhanced therapeutic efficacy, and reduced adverse effects. Among various nanomaterials, zinc selenium nanocomposites (ZnSe NCs) have garnered significant attention due to their unique physicochemical properties, biocompatibility, and potential antidiabetic effects. ZnSe NCs exhibit remarkable antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and insulin-mimetic properties, which are crucial in addressing the underlying pathophysiology of diabetes. Their ability to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reduce oxidative stress plays a pivotal role in protecting pancreatic β-cells from damage and improving insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues. Additionally, ZnSe NCs have been shown to modulate key signaling pathways involved in glucose metabolism, such as the PI3K/Akt and AMPK pathways, thereby enhancing glucose uptake and utilization. Recent studies have also demonstrated their potential in promoting β-cell regeneration and preserving islet function, which could offer long-term benefits in diabetes management. The therapeutic efficacy of ZnSe NCs has been validated in both in vitro and in vivo models, showcasing their ability to lower blood glucose levels, improve lipid profiles, and reduce diabetic complications such as nephropathy and neuropathy. Furthermore, their biocompatibility and low toxicity profile make them promising candidates for clinical translation. However, challenges such as optimal dosing, long-term safety, and scalable synthesis methods need to be addressed to facilitate their transition from the laboratory to clinical applications. This review comprehensively summarizes the current understanding of the antidiabetic potential of ZnSe NCs, emphasizing their mechanisms of action, therapeutic benefits, and safety considerations. It also highlights recent advancements in the field, including surface modifications and hybrid nanocomposites designed to enhance their functionality and targeting precision. Future research directions may focus on personalized nanomedicine approaches, combination therapies, and the development of smart delivery systems to maximize therapeutic outcomes. By addressing these aspects, ZnSe NCs could pave the way for next-generation antidiabetic therapies, offering hope for more effective and sustainable diabetes management.