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Research and Reviews: A Journal of Pharmaceutical Science Review Article

Exploring Type-II Diabetes Potential of Phyto-Derived Carbon Dots

  1. Lovish Sharma Department of Pharmacy, Chitkara University School of Pharmacy, Chitkara University
  2. Ankur Thakur Department of Pharmacy, Chitkara University School of Pharmacy, Chitkara University
  3. Komal Pathania Department of Pharmacy, Chitkara University School of Pharmacy, Chitkara University

Abstract

The integration of phytoconstituents with carbon dots (C-dots) presents a novel and sustainable approach to the development of nanotherapeutics for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). C-dots, zero-dimensional carbon-based nanomaterials, exhibit unique physicochemical properties including high fluorescence, tunable surface chemistry, biocompatibility, and low toxicity. Their ability to enhance the solubility, bioavailability, and targeted delivery of poorly soluble phytochemicals renders them highly suitable for biomedical applications. This study explores the synthesis of C-dots from phyto-derived waste materials via top-down and bottom-up approaches, including hydrothermal, microwave-assisted, and thermal decomposition methods. It further examines the methodologies for phytoconstituent loading—such as in-situ incorporation, post-synthesis adsorption, chemical conjugation, and encapsulation—highlighting their influence on therapeutic efficacy and release profiles. Functionalization with bioactive plant-derived compounds (e.g., curcumin, berberine, quercetin) enhances the anti-diabetic potential of C-dots by modulating oxidative stress, improving insulin sensitivity, and regulating glycemic indices. Recent advancements, including zinc-doped and enzyme-functionalized C-dots, have demonstrated enhanced wound healing and oral insulin delivery, expanding their utility beyond glycemic control. The theranostic capabilities of these nanostructures enable simultaneous diagnosis and treatment, positioning phytoconstituent-loaded C-dots as a versatile platform in diabetes management. Despite promising preclinical evidence, challenges such as reproducibility, pharmacokinetic profiling, and regulatory approval persist. This review underscores the need for standardized synthesis protocols and comprehensive in vivo validation to facilitate clinical translation. Ultimately, phytoconstituent-loaded C-dots offer a green, cost-effective, and efficacious alternative to conventional anti-diabetic therapies with reduced systemic toxicity.

Keywords

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