In vitro anti-diabetic assessment of hamamelitannin functionalized gold nanoparticles in regulating oxidative stress and glucose transport using L6 rat skeletal muscle cells

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder associated with impaired glucose metabolism and oxidative stress. Nanoparticle-based therapies, particularly gold nanoparticles (Au NPs), have shown promise in improving insulin sensitivity and reducing cellular oxidative damage. This study evaluates the anti-diabetic potential of hamamelitannin functionalized gold nanoparticles (HT-Au NPs) in regulating glucose transport and oxidative stress in L6 rat skeletal muscle cells. HT-Au NPs were synthesized and characterized using scanning electron microscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction to confirm their structural integrity and functionalization. The cytocompatibility of HT-Au NPs was assessed using MTT assay, while their antioxidant effects were determined through reactive oxygen species inhibition, apoptosis analysis, and lipid peroxidation quantification. The glucose uptake ability of HT-Au NPs was evaluated using the 2-NBDG assay, and their impact on glycogen storage was quantified to assess insulin-mimetic activity. Results indicated that HT-Au NPs significantly improved glucose uptake and glycogen accumulation,
suggesting enhanced glucose metabolism. Furthermore, treated cells exhibited lower oxidative stress markers, reduced ROS accumulation, and decreased apoptosis levels. These findings highlight the potential role of HT-Au NPs in diabetes management by
improving glucose utilization and mitigating oxidative stress-related cellular damage. Future research should focus on elucidating the molecular mechanisms of HT-Au NP-mediated glucose regulation and their potential application in diabetes treatment strategies.