Histological and immunohistochemical study on the consequences of acute glycemic level alteration on the dorsal root ganglia and sciatic nerve integrity in neonatal albino rats

Abstract

Background Diabetes mellitus is greatly prevalent worldwide. Diabetic patients who attempt strict management of blood glucose levels frequently experience hypoglycemia. Aim of the work The aim of this study was to mimic the effects of both acute hyperglycemic and hypoglycemic attacks in neonatal albino rats and examine their consequences on the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and sciatic nerve microstructure. Materials and methods Thirty 5-day-old albino rats were used in the present study. The animals were divided into three groups: the control group, the recurrent hyperglycemic crisis group, and the recurrent hypoglycemic crisis group. After 2 weeks from the start of the experiment (on the 20th day), the rats were sacrificed. Specimens of the DRG and the sciatic nerve were processed for light microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and immunohistochemical study. Immunohistochemical data were analyzed statistically. Results In the recurrent hyperglycemic crisis group, the neurons of the DRG were either shrunken or apoptotic, thereby leaving empty spaces. Satellite cells (gliocytes) were significantly increased in number. Myelinated nerve fibers of the sciatic nerve revealed segmental demyelination with significant decrease in the number of Schwann cells. In contrast, recurrent hypoglycemic crises caused ballooning and pale staining of the neurons of the DRG. The gliocytes were more significantly increased in number. Sciatic nerve fibers showed segmental demyelination with the presence of myelin whorls. More significant decrease in the number of Schwann cells was noted. Conclusion Acute hypoglycemic crisis was more dangerous compared with acute hyperglycemic crisis in neonatal albino rats, with more impact on the DRG and sciatic nerve microstructure.