The Application of Nanotechnology for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Endocrine Disorders: A Review of Current Trends, Toxicology and Future Perspective

Abstract

The endocrine system regulates many biological systems, and disruptions may result in disorders, such as diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, Cushing's syndrome, and obesity. The total incidence of endocrine illnesses was found to be 47.4%, excluding type 2 diabetes mellitus, with a significant frequency of newly diagnosed endocrine disorders. Nanotechnology manipulates particles at the atomic and molecular levels, opening up new paths for studying disease etiology and therapeutic alternatives. The goal of using nanomaterials in the treatment of endocrine illnesses is to create endogenous nano-biosensors that can detect even modest changes in hormone levels and react spontaneously to restore normal function. The size and surface characteristics of nanoparticles enhances the sensitivity in nano-sensors and are functionalized for targeted drug delivery. Nano-sized carriers composed of lipids, polymers, carbon, or metals have been shown to work much better than standard drug delivery methods. Nanoparticles (NPs) offer various advantages over current methods for diagnosing and treating endocrine disorders, acting as hydrogels for insulin delivery and wound healing. Incorporating selenium NPs into inorganic nanoparticles enhances their bioactivity and targeted delivery. Gold NPs show a promising precise insulin delivery. Mesoporous silica NPs maintain glycemic level effectively and lipid and polymeric NPs protect drugs from degradation in the gastrointestinal tract. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have become popular in thyroid surgeries. These characteristics make nanoparticles valuable for developing effective diagnostic and therapeutic systems. NP-based medicines have been thoroughly researched in order to identify the beginning point for the creation of theranostics, which may function in two ways: as imaging agents or therapeutics. The study posits that nanotechnology bridges diagnostics and therapies, potentially revolutionizing endocrine disorder treatments. This review delves into nanotechnology techniques, emphasizing their applications in diagnosing and treating diabetes mellitus.

Keywords: diabetes; endocrine disorders; nanomedicines; theranostics; thyroid dysfunction.

Figure 1

Nanomaterials known to exhibit potentials against metabolic disorders.

Figure 2

Nanotechnology’s Role in Advancing Diabetes Treatment: The advancements made in glucose sensor technology have the potential to greatly benefit individuals with diabetes by providing more accurate readings and improving insulin dosing and overall diabetes management.

Figure 3

Nanomaterials utilized in wound healing: This schematic depicts various types of nanocarriers employed for the treatment of chronic wounds, including self-assembled nanocarriers such as liposomes, micelles, and nanogels, as well as nanoparticles such as polymeric, inorganic, and lipid-based nanoparticles. In addition, the use of nanofibers, which can either encapsulate nanocarriers or therapeutic agents could also be perceived.