Effects of Vitamin E on Phospholipase A2 Activity and Oxidative Damage to the Liver in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats

Abstract

Background: The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of vitamin E on oxidative stress and cell membrane fluidity in the liver of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Methods: Sprague-Dawley male rats weighing 100 ± 10 g were fed a vitamin E-free diet (the DM-0E group), a 40 mg vitamin E/kg diet (the DM-40E group), or a 400 mg vitamin E/kg diet (the DM-400E group). Result: Dietary vitamin E reduced the increased concentration of lipid peroxides in the liver tissues of diabetic rats through decreasing their increased phospholipase A₂ (PLA₂) activity and phosphatidylethanolamine hydrolysis. However, vitamin E reduced the accumulation of superoxide radical and decreased the generation of oxidative damage substances, such as the carbonyl value, increased membrane fluidity and lowered oxidative damage. Conclusions: Vitamin E was found to be excellent for regulating the activity of PLA₂, reducing the generation of reactive oxygen species and damaging oxidative substances, and maintaining cell membrane fluidity in the liver of diabetic rats.