ABSTRACT
Introduction: Aspartame (ASP) is a widely used synthetic sweetener around the world. Its sweetness power is nearly 200 times that of sucrose. It is added to many products, such as diet soda and yogurt. Upon long term uptake of ASP, the balance between oxidants and antioxidants is disturbed leading to oxidative stress and peroxidation of lipid. Additionally, it causes degenerative changes regarding different body organs.
Objectives to evaluate the effect of aspartame on the rats' parotid salivary glands.
Methodology: Sixteen male albino rats (170-210 g in weight) were randomly split into: Group I (control group), Group II (ASP group). Using oral gavage, group I rats were given 1 ml distilled water once a day while group II rats were given 250 mg/kg body weight of ASP dissolved in distilled water once a day for 8 weeks. After 8 weeks, the animals were euthanized, the parotid glands were surgically removes and the effect of ASP was evaluated using a light microscope.
Results: Normal histological features of parotid gland were demonstrated in the control group. Regarding the ASP group, structural disorganization as well as extensive vacuolation were seen in the serous acini. According to body weight changes, there was an increase in body weight within the group receiving ASP.
Conclusion: Oral administration of ASP for 8 weeks in male rats led to significant histological alterations in the parotid salivary glands and thus oral homeostasis disruption.