ABSTRACT
The purpose of this study was to determine and to assess the protective effect of vitamin E on cardiomyocyte apoptosis and oxidative stress status in the heart under hyperglycemic conditions, in vivo. Wistar male rats [n=16] at 6 months of age were made hyperglycemic by STZ. Same age, normal wistar rats [n=8] were used for comparison [controls]. Diabetic rats were divided into two groups, the nontreated and those treated with vitamin E [300mg/kg/daily]. Diabetic rats exhibited severe apoptosis in cardiomyocytes. Also significant increases in lipid peroxidation as measured by 8- isoprostan, protein oxidation as measured by protein carbonyl content and superoxide dismutase were observed after 6 weeks. Catalase activity was shown to increase in controls compared to nontreated rats. A distinct elevation in the HbA1C, QT interval and a decline in the activity of catalase were also observed. Vitamin E treated rats shown significant decline in apoptosis, lipid peroxidation, protein carbonyl and QT interval compared to nontreated rats. Vitamin E decreased the incidence of apoptosis in cardiomyocytes, lipid peroxidation and improve antioxidant enzyme in the diabetic hearts of rats. Further research to confirm the findings is recommended