Retracted: Glucocorticoid-Induced, Morpho-Functional Alterations in Pancreatic Beta Cells of Wistar Rats
A. Aigbiremolen *
Department of Human Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Delta State University, Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria.
M. A. Omoirri
Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Akwa, Anambra State, Nigeria.
O. A. Udi
Department of Basic Medical Science, College of Natural and Applied Sciences, Achievers University, Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria.
S. E. Iloh
Department of Pharmacology, Chukwemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam, Anambra State, Nigeria.
M. Ogbonnaya
Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Akwa, Anambra State, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Though prolonged use of glucocorticoids has been reported to promote adverse effects, traditionally, high-dose glucocorticoids have been implicated in immune-suppression following organ transplant with Cortisone being a well-known artificial glucocorticoid.
Objectives: This study investigated the histo-architectural and functional changes in pancreatic beta cells due to Cortisone administration.
Materials and Methods: Forty two (42) Wistar rats (140 – 200 kg) were assigned into seven groups of six (6) rats each with group A acting as a control. While groups B and C were respectively treated with 0.1 mg/kg and 0.3 mg/kg of Cortisone, groups D and E received 0.1 mg/kg and 0.3 mg/kg of Cortisone respectively plus 33 mg/kg of Ketoconazole; whereas, groups F and G were respectively given 0.1 mg/kg and 0.3 mg/kg of Cortisone alongside 150 mg/kg of Vitamin E each for twenty-eight (28) days. After 28 days of administration, rats were euthanized and blood samples collected for insulin assay. Pancreatic tissues were also harvested and observed for histo-morphological changes.
Results: Analysis of variance (ANOVA) found Cortisone to have significantly (p < .05) increased glucose level in a dose dependent manner. This was however attenuated following co-administration of Ketoconazole and Vitamin E as Ketoconazole showed more potency in this ameliorating effect. Also, Cortisone was observed to significantly decrease (in dose dependent fashion), pancreatic β-cell functions, with attenuating effect seen following co-administration of Ketoconazole.
Conclusion: It is recommended that caution is applied with the intake of glucocorticoids, especially in polypharmacy while treating certain ailments.
Keywords: Ketoconazole, ameliorating effect, cortisone, glucocorticoids