Effects of alpha lipoic acid and vitamin C supplementation on transforming growth factor alpha (TGF \alpha) and transforming growth factor beta 2 (TGF \beta2)secretion in testicular tissue of diabetic rats

Authors: SEVDA ELİŞ YILDIZ, BUKET BAKIR, HAMİT USLU, EBRU KARADAĞ SARI, MUSA KARAMAN

Abstract: The effects of alpha lipoic acid and vitamin C supplementation on TGF \alpha and TGF \beta2 secretion in the testicular tissue of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats were examined by immunohistochemical methods. Rats were divided into 5 groups; group 1 (control), 2 (diabetic control), 3 (diabetes + alpha lipoic acid), 4 (diabetes + vitamin C), and 5 (diabetes + alpha lipoic acid + vitamin C). Hematoxylin and eosin staining was performed in order to examine testicular tissue histopathologically. The streptavidin-biotin-peroxidase complex method was used for histological examination and determination of TGF \alpha and TGF \beta2 localization in the testicular tissue. Regarding fasting blood glucose levels, the lowest blood glucose level was detected in group 3. Fewer pathological histopathological findings were observed in groups treated with alpha lipoic acid, vitamin C, and alpha lipoic acid + vitamin C compared to the diabetes group. TGF \alpha and TGF \beta2 secretions increased in groups 3, 4, and 5 compared to group 2. In conclusion, exogenous administration of alpha lipoic acid, vitamin C, and alpha lipoic acid + vitamin C increased TGF \alpha and TGF \beta2 secretion in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

Keywords: Alpha lipoic acid, diabetes, vitamin C, TGF \alpha, TGF \beta2

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