Can vitamin E protect the pancreas against ethanol-induced alterations in adult male albino rats? A histomorphometric and immunohistochemical study

Background Ethanol has a destructive effect on the pancreas by inducing oxidative damage on pancreatic cells. This injurious effect could be ameliorated by the administration of vitamin E. Aim The aim of the study was to investigate the possible protective role of vitamin E on ethanol-induced alterations in the pancreas in adult male albino rats and also the effect of ethanol withdrawal. Materials and methods Forty adult male albino rats were divided into four equal groups (10 rats each): group I (control group), group II (ethanol-treated group), group III (ethanol and vitamin E-treated group), and group IV (recovery group). At the end of the experiment, the rats were sacrificed by cervical dislocation and their pancreas were excised and prepared for light microscopic and histochemical study. Detection of interleukin (IL)-1B and IL-6 by real-time PCR and proliferating cell nuclear antigen immunoexpression in the pancreatic tissue was carried out. Results Group II showed loss of acinar tissue, distorted degenerated pancreatic acini, dilated distorted interlobular ducts, distorted islets of Langerhans, and dilatation and congestion of the blood vessels. Interlobular inflammatory cellular infiltration was also detected. There was an increased collagen fiber deposition and diminution of the proliferating stem cells. There was a marked increase in IL-1B and IL-6 levels. Group III showed an obvious improvement in the structure of the pancreas. The recovery group showed improvement in the structure of the pancreas and minimal collagen deposition. Conclusion Vitamin E could protect the pancreas against ethanol-induced alteration in adult male albino rats.