Phytochemical-Infused Chitosan Biocomposites: Cytotoxic, Antidiabetic, and Anticoagulant Potential of Vaccinium and Zingiber Extracts

Background: The integration of plant-derived bioactives with natural polymers offers a sustainable approach to therapeutic biomaterials. Vaccinium sect. Cyanococcus (blueberry) and Zingiber officinale (ginger) are known for their antidiabetic and anticoagulant properties, while chitosan serves as a biodegradable, biocompatible carrier. Aim: To develop a chitosan-based biocomposite loaded with V. cyanococcus and Z. officinale extracts and evaluate its in vitro antidiabetic, anticoagulant, and cytotoxic activities. Materials and Methods: Biocomposites were prepared by incorporating aqueous extracts of V. cyanococcus and Z. officinale into a chitosan matrix. Antidiabetic activity was assessed via α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition assays. Anticoagulant activity was evaluated using clotting time analysis. Biocompatibility was tested via the brine shrimp lethality assay. Data were analyzed statistically, with significance set at p<0.05. Results: The biocomposite showed significant, dose-dependent inhibition of α-amylase (48.03-85.09%) and α-glucosidase (47.03-84.04%) activities, comparable to the standard drug acarbose (p>0.05). Clotting time in the treated group (8.40±0.10 min) showed a mild, non-significant decrease compared to control (8.60±0.10 min). Cytotoxicity was minimal at lower concentrations, with nauplii viability remaining above 60% even at the highest dose after 48 hr. Conclusion: The chitosan-based biocomposite enriched with V. cyanococcus and Z. officinale exhibits promising antidiabetic and mild anticoagulant activity with acceptable biocompatibility. These findings support its potential use in managing metabolic and thrombotic conditions.