| abstract |
A closed-loop insulin delivery system is described. More particularly, the presently disclosed insulin delivery system can comprise glucose-responsive vesicles that release insulin in response to hypoxia triggered by enzymatic reduction of glucose. In addition or as an alternative to insulin, the delivery system can release other diabetes treatment agents, such as non-insulin-based diabetes treatment agents. The vesicles can be prepared from a hypoxia sensitive polymer, such as a hypoxia-sensitive hyaluronic acid (HS-HA). The HS-HA can comprise hydrophobic groups that can be reduced in hypoxic environments to form hydrophilic groups. The vesicles can be loaded into microneedles and microneedle array patches for use in the treatment of diabetes or to otherwise regulate blood glucose levels in subjects in need of such treatment. |