Structural changes in pancreatic acinar cells and β-cells of rat fed with genetically modified corn

Abstract

Background: Genetically modified (GM) organisms have been an issue of intense public concern. Among the different GM organisms, GM plants have attracted a large amount of media attention. Corn used for food has been GM to resist glyphosate herbicide, insect resistance (Bt-corn), and vitamin-enriched corn with increase in β carotene, Vitamin C, and folate. As GM foods are starting to be present in our diet, concerns have been expressed regarding GM food safety. Aim of the Work: The aim was to assess the possible effects arising from GM corn on pancreatic acinar cells and β-cells. Materials and Methods: Twenty rats were divided equally into two groups. Group I (Control Group) received non-GM corn, Group II (The Experimental Group) fed with GM corn for 3 months. After 3 months, blood samples from all rats were collected for blood glucose estimation, and fresh specimens were taken from the pancreas and processed for light and transmission electron microscopic examination. Results: There was a significant increase of blood glucose level in rats fed with GM corn (Group II). Moreover, evident structural changes in the pancreatic acinar cell as evident by interstitial edema, irregular nuclei with dilated perinuclear space, dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum, vacuolation and lysosome-like lamellated structure, decreased electron-dense secretory granules, and formation of apoptotic bodies. Examination of β-cells revealed evident destruction and decreased secretory granules. Conclusion: A diet containing significant amounts of GM corn seems to influence zymogen synthesis in pancreatic acinar cells as well as β-cells function