Targeting Metabolic Syndrome and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with Heavy Metal-Based Nanoparticles: A Comprehensive Review of Therapeutic Applications and Mechanistic Insights | ||||
| Egyptian Journal of Chemistry | ||||
| Volume 68, Issue 10, October 2025, Page 681-697 PDF (993.23 K) | ||||
| Document Type: Review Articles | ||||
| DOI: 10.21608/ejchem.2025.378739.11660 | ||||
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| Authors | ||||
Nesma M.E. Abo El Nasr  ; Amany A. El-Fadaly; Yosra A. Hussien; Dalia O. Saleh
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| Pharmacology Depatrment, Medical Research and Clinical Studies Institute, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt. | ||||
| Abstract | ||||
| The increasing prevalence of metabolic syndrome and diabetic complications has led to an urgent need for more effective and targeted therapeutic strategies. Nanotechnology, particularly the use of metal-based nanoparticles, has emerged as a promising approach to address the limitations of traditional drug delivery systems. Recent advancements in the design of nanomaterials for targeted therapeutic delivery have shown remarkable promise, offering exciting new possibilities in therapeutic innovation. By engineering nanomaterials to transport biological molecules, researchers can induce specific physiological changes with minimal side effects and optimized dosing, transforming next-generation treatments for various diseases. MNPs are gaining considerable attention for their unique capabilities in drug delivery. Their high surface-area-to-volume ratio allows for versatile surface modifications, while enhancing drug efficacy through targeted delivery. MNPs also improve drug stability, extend circulation time, and ensure efficient distribution to desired sites. In this context, the current review delves into the complex pathophysiological mechanisms linking obesity, insulin resistance, and T2DM, with a particular focus on the role of adipose tissue inflammation. It further explores how heavy metal-based nanoparticles may offer a multifaceted therapeutic approach, addressing key metabolic disturbances through innovative mechanisms. This review explores the potential of heavy metal-loaded nanoparticles in the management of metabolic syndrome and T2DM-related complications. Specifically, we focus on their ability to improve insulin sensitivity and target key pathological pathways associated with IR, oxidative stress, and inflammation. The mechanisms through which metal-based NPs modulate cellular responses, such as enhancing antioxidant defenses and influencing signaling pathways like AMPK, Nrf2, and NF-κB, are discussed in detail. Furthermore, we examine the role of nanoparticles in the delivery of nucleic acids and other bioactive molecules, which offer novel therapeutic avenues for overcoming the challenges of enzymatic instability and cellular uptake. Although these nanoparticles show great potential, issues related to biocompatibility, toxicity, and regulatory compliance still need to be addressed. Future directions include the development of more efficient nanoparticle formulations, better understanding of their long-term effects, and optimization of clinical protocols to maximize their therapeutic potential in treating metabolic syndrome and diabetic complications. | ||||
| Keywords | ||||
| Metal-based nanoparticles; insulin resistance; metabolic syndrome; diabetic complications; nanomedicine; targeted therapy | ||||
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