Histological and immunohistochemical study on the effect of Aflatoxin B1 on the ileum of adult male albino rat and possible protective effect of sodium selenite

Abstract

Background: Aflatoxin B1 is one of dangerous mycotoxins which is produced by Aspergillus fungi. Small intestine especiallyileum is important site for absorption and immunity.Aim: To study histological, ultrastructure and immunohistochemical changes by Aflatoxin B1 on ileum of adult male albinorat and the possible protective effect of sodium selenite.Materials and Methods: Forty adult male albino rats were used, they were divided into four groups, control group (GI),sodium selenite group (GII), Aflatoxin B1 group (GIII), Aflatoxin B1 and sodium selenite group (GIV). Sections were stainedby H&E, Mallory, Alcain blue and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). Ultrathin sections were prepared for electronmicroscopic study. Morphometric study for different measurement in ileum were done.Results: Aflatoxin group show marked destruction, disorganization of most villi and crypts, necrosis and vacuolation of coveringand lining cells. Hemorrhage, hyalinization and necrosis in submucosa and muscle layers with heavy lymphocytic infiltrationare seen. Alcain blue stain show significant decrease in intensity. Goblet cells and PCNA + ve cells reveal significant decreasein their numbers. All sections show marked improvement with selenite treatment, ultrastructure changes are in harmony tolight microscope findings.Conclusion: Aflatoxin B1 has destructive histopathological changes on all layers of ileum and sodium selenite has protectiveeffect against this damage.