Effects of Chronic Uncontrolled Hyperglycemia on Ultrastructure of Hippocampus Astrocytes

Altered function of astrocytes has been noticed in diabetes mellitus type1. The aim of our study was to determine the effects of chronic uncontrolled hyperglycemia on ultrastructure of hippocampus astrocytes. Materials and Methods: Experimental diabetes was induced in adult male wistar rats by application of streptozotocin (60mg/kg). Eight weeks after application of streptozotocin, the hippocampi wereremoved and the number of astrocytes and degenerated neurons were studied using transmission electron microscopy. Results: The astrocytes exhibited structural changes, including reduced electron density of the nucleus, electro-lucent heterochromatin, and vacuolatedcytoplasm. The mean number of astrocytes in diabetic group significantly increased compared to the controls. Conclusion: Our data revealed that chronic diabetes mellitus type 1is associated with increase in the mean number of astrocytes and ultrastructural astrocytechanges in the hippocampus.