Effect of vitamin E on alloxan-induced mouse diabetes

Objectives: Alloxan generates hydrogen peroxide in the body, and a small amount of alloxan administered to acatalasemic mice results in diabetes. D-α-Tocopherol (vitamin E) is an antioxidant which helps prevent excess oxidation in the body. In this study, we examined the effect of vitamin E on diabetes caused by alloxan administration in mice. Methods: Mice were maintained on a vitamin E-deprived diet and supplemented diet, respectively, for 14. weeks. Alloxan was then intraperitoneally administered, and blood glucose, glucose tolerance and the insulin level in mouse blood were examined. Results: Hyperglycemia was observed in the mice maintained on the vitamin E-deprived diet. The incidence of hyperglycemia in the mice maintained on the vitamin E-deprived diet was significantly higher than that in the mice maintained on the supplemented diet. The abnormal glucose metabolism caused by alloxan administration was ameliorated by the vitamin E-supplemented diet. Conclusions: It is deduced that vitamin E can prevent a decrease of insulin concentration in the blood in this mouse model.