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

Abstract

The effects of alpha lipoic acid and vitamin C supplementation on TGF alpha and TGF beta 2 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 beta 2 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 beta 2 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 beta 2 secretion in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.