Abstract
Background: Diabetes mellitus-induced oxidative stress is considered a major problem that causes several adverse consequences. Among the commonly known natural antioxidants is whey protein (WP), which is regarded as a potent natural antioxidant, as it reduces oxidative stress and supports immune system performance.
Aim: The present study aimed to assess the influence of WP in ameliorating the destructive effect of induced type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) on the circumvallate papilla (CVP) structure in rats' tongue.
Methodology: Eighteen rats were distributed into three groups; group I served as control, and T1DM was induced in the other 2 groups by individual injection of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg body weight) intraperitoneally. After confirmation of diabetes induction, rats were distributed in group II (received no treatment) and group III (received WP at a dose of 0.3 gm/kg for 4 weeks). The CVPs were examined for histopathological, histomorphometric analysis of taste buds' count, and immunohistochemical analysis of Nrf2 protein.
Results: Histological and histomorphometric results exhibited apparent tissue degeneration in group II including taste buds, CVP ganglion, von Ebner's gland, and muscles. Group III revealed marked improvement in all tissue components with an image closer to control. Immunohistochemical analysis of Nrf2 protein revealed the highest expression in group II while administering WP suppressed Nrf2 expression in group III.
Conclusion: Oral administration of WP showed a remarkable ability to counteract the damage induced by T1DM in CVP tissues and reduced oxidative stress levels.