Development of a phytotherapeutic prototype based on triterpenes encapsulated in nanocarriers for the treatment of obesity and T2DM

Obesity is fueling a rise in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), with more than 700 million people worldwide estimated to suffer it by the year 2045 [1]. Previous studies have revealed that a triterpene-rich fraction from Eucalyptus tereticornis leaves reduced fasting blood glucose and improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in a T2DM murine model by intraperitoneal administration [2], but with limitations across oral administration. This work aimed to develop a polymeric nanocarrier (PN) to transport triterpene-rich fractions orally through the gastrointestinal tract in pre-diabetic mice and control the effects of obesity and T2DM to overcome such limitations.