Antidiabetic activity of thin film containing astaxanthin-loaded nanoemulsion using carboxymethylcellulose sodium polymer on alloxan-induced diabetic rabbit

The present study was conducted to evaluate the potency of thin film containing astaxanthin-loaded nanoemulsion (FDT-As-NE) in lowering blood glucose levels on alloxan-induced diabetic rabbit (ADR). Astaxanthin nanoemulsion (As-NE) was prepared using self-nanoemulsifying method, followed by incorporated into the carboxymethylcellulose sodium matrix polymer using a solvent casting method to form a thin film. The evaluation of FDT-As-NE was performed by chemical, physical, and mechanical characterizations. The administration of thin film was done by an intraoral route. New Zealand albino rabbits were induced with alloxan to get experimental diabetic animals. The antidiabetic activity was carried out in three groups of treatment. Group I was ADR treated by FDT-As-NE, Group II was ADR treated by pure astaxanthin, while Group III was normal control. The measurement of fasting means blood glucose levels was carried out in 0 days (before treatment) and after 14 days of treatment. The histopathological analysis of the pancreas was also examined. Data were statistically evaluated using Kruskal–Wallis statistical test. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. FDT-As-NE had good physical and mechanical characteristics that suitable for intraoral administration. Group I reduced elevated blood glucose levels compared to Group II (P < 0.01). Histopathological examination of pancreatic tissue for a Group I showed the normal condition of pancreatic β-cell, suggesting the absence of any pathological lesions. These results suggest that thin film containing astaxanthin-loaded nanoemulsion administered by an intraoral route potentially useful for reducing glucose levels.