Targeted Nanotherapies for Diabetic Complications

Overview of Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood glucose levels, known as hyperglycemia. It occurs when the body is unable to properly regulate insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps control blood sugar levels. Insulin allows glucose to enter cells, where it is used as a source of energy. There are three main types of diabetes mellitus: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes (Prabhakar et al., 2019).

• i.

  Type 1 Diabetes: Type 1 diabetes, also known as insulin-dependent diabetes or juvenile-onset diabetes, is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. As a result, the pancreas is unable to produce insulin, leading to a complete deficiency. People with type 1 diabetes require lifelong insulin therapy through injections or insulin pump to regulate their blood sugar levels (Nankar et al., 2017).

• ii.

  Type 2 Diabetes: Type 2 diabetes, also referred to as non-insulin dependent diabetes or adult-onset diabetes, is the most common form of diabetes, accounting for approximately 90-95% of all cases. It occurs when the body becomes resistant to the effects of insulin or when the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin to meet the body's needs. Type 2 diabetes is strongly associated with lifestyle factors such as obesity, sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, and genetics. Initially, it can often be managed through lifestyle modifications, such as healthy eating, regular physical activity, and weight loss (Prabhakar et al., 2016). However, over time, medication or insulin therapy may be required to manage blood sugar levels effectively.

• iii.

  Gestational Diabetes: Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy and affects approximately 2-10% of pregnant women. It occurs when hormonal changes during pregnancy lead to insulin resistance, resulting in elevated blood sugar levels. While gestational diabetes usually resolves after childbirth, it increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life for both the mother and the child. Pregnant women with gestational diabetes require careful monitoring of their blood sugar levels and may need dietary changes, physical activity, and in some cases, medication or insulin therapy (Prabhakar et al., 2016).