Effect of Stem Cells versus Statins on the Mucous Membrane and Salivary Glands of the Tongue of Induced- Diabetic Rats

Abstract

Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is one of the most prevalent metabolic diseases. Statins are the most commonly prescribed medications to lower plasma LDL-C levels. Statins also have been shown to reduce the progression of atherosclerotic plaques.Stem cell (SC) therapy is emerging as a potentially revolutionary way to treat disease and injury with wide ranging medical benefits.Aim: to evaluate the effect of SC versus simvastatin on the mucous membrane and salivary glands of the tongue of rats with streptozotocin-induced DM. Material and Methods: Seventy-five male albino rats (weight 150-180gr) were divided into the following groups: Group1.1 (15 rats) served as controls.Group 2.1 (15 rats) were subjected to a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (60mg/kg body weight) for induction of DM. Group 3.1 (15 rats) were subjected to induction of DM (as in group 2.1). One week later, the animals were treated with simvastatin in a daily intraperitoneal dose of 5mg/kg body weight. Group 4 (30 rats) were subdivided into:Subgroup.4.1 (15 rats) subjected to induction of DM (as in group 2.1). One week later they were subjected to single intravenous infusion of mesenchymal bone marrow SCs. Subgroup. 4.2 (15 rats)were used for isolation and culture of bone marrow SC.By the end of the experimental periods all animals were sacrificed, and the tongue of all rats were dissected and processed for light and scanning electron microscopic examinations. Results: Examination of diabetic rats' tongues revealed atrophic and degenerative changes on the tongue papillae. The examined tongues of the rats treated with simvastatin showed partial improvement in the histological picture while the tongue of rats treated with SC showed almost normal histology. Conclusion: The anti-inflammatory effect of SMV on the diabetic tongue. Bone marrow-derived SC are responsible for repairing the tissues and replacing them when injured or exposed to tear, wear or diseases.