Green Nanotechnology in Diabetes Therapy: Biogenic Nanoparticles from Medicinal Plants as Therapeutic Agents

Bwambale Isaac

Biomedical Department Kampala International University Uganda

Email: isaac.bwambale@studwc.kiu.ac.ug

                                                                                         ABSTRACT
Green nanotechnology has emerged as an innovative and sustainable approach in diabetes therapy, utilizing plant-derived biomolecules for the synthesis of biogenic nanoparticles with intrinsic therapeutic activity. Unlike conventional chemically synthesized nanoparticles, green-synthesized nanoparticles employ medicinal plant extracts as reducing, stabilizing, and capping agents, thereby minimizing toxic residues and enhancing biocompatibility. These biogenic nanoparticles commonly gold, silver, zinc oxide, selenium, and iron oxide nanoparticles, often exhibit synergistic antidiabetic effects derived from both the metallic core and phytochemical corona. Mechanistically, they modulate insulin signaling pathways, improve glucose uptake, suppress oxidative stress, inhibit carbohydrate-digesting enzymes, and protect pancreatic β-cells from apoptosis. Their nanoscale size enhances cellular uptake, tissue distribution, and interaction with metabolic targets. Preclinical studies demonstrate improved glycemic control, antioxidant status, lipid profiles, and islet preservation in diabetic models compared with crude extracts or chemically synthesized counterparts. However, concerns remain regarding long-term toxicity, biodistribution, standardization of synthesis protocols, and regulatory classification. This review explores the principles of green nanoparticle synthesis, mechanistic insights into their antidiabetic actions, therapeutic evidence, safety considerations, and translational challenges. Biogenic nanoparticles represent a promising intersection of phytotherapy, sustainability, and precision nanomedicine in diabetes management.

Keywords: green nanotechnology; biogenic nanoparticles; medicinal plants; diabetes therapy; β-cell protection.

CITE AS: Bwambale Isaac (2026). Green Nanotechnology in Diabetes Therapy: Biogenic Nanoparticles from Medicinal Plants as Therapeutic Agents. IDOSR JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL SCIENCES 12(2): 33-40. https://doi.org/10.59298/IDOSR/JES/06/1223340