Methylcellulose and polyacrylate binary hydrogels used as rectal suppository to prevent type I diabetes.

The purpose of this study was to fabricate a novel binary hydrogel, and the insulin-loaded hydrogel was used as rectal suppository to prevent type I diabetes. The binary hydrogel was synthesized via solution polymerization. Its structure was studied by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Raman spectra. The swelling behaviors of binary hydrogels were revealed in pH 1.2, 6.8 and 7.4 buffers, respectively. Their inner morphologies were observed with a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Insulin (INS) was selected as a model drug and encapsulated into the binary hydrogels. INS release study was carried out in pH 7.4 buffer. The hypoglycemic effects of INS-loaded hydrogels were studied by rectal administration. FTIR and Raman spectra confirmed the obtaining of binary hydrogels. The hydrogel showed a high swelling ratio in pH 7.4 (rectum environment). SEM photographs illustrated that many micro-pores in the inner of binary hydrogels, which could accommodate abundant guest molecule (e.g. INS). INS release profile suggested that INS-loaded hydrogels could diffuse INS at a sustained manner. Animal studies proved that INS-loaded binary hydrogel had an obvious hypoglycemic effect. Therefore, it could be speculated that the binary hydrogel had a potential application on treating type I diabetes by rectal administration.