Effect Of Vitamin D Deficiency On Salivary Gland (Parotid And Submandibular) And Oral Mucosa On Diabetic Male Albino Rats

Abstract

Background: Global prevalence of Diabetes mellites was 285 million in 2010, projected to increase over 50% by 2030. In Egypt, studies show a diabetes prevalence of 15.6% and impaired fasting glucose of 11.0%, highlighting it as a significant health concern. Aim: This study aims at investigating the effect of induced vitamin D deficiency on salivary glands and oral health on induced diabetic male albino rats. Method: This experimental study examined the impact of Vitamin D deficiency and diabetes on 28 adult male albino rats. Rats were divided into four groups: control, Vitamin D deficient, diabetic (induced by Streptozotocin), and diabetic with Vitamin D deficiency. After inducing conditions, blood and saliva samples were collected at baseline and after six weeks for analysis of glucose, Vitamin D, electrolytes, and salivary parameters. Histological examinations of oral tissues were also conducted. Data analysis utilized SPSS with ANOVA and Mann-Whitney U-tests, setting significance at p < 0.05. Results: The results showed statistically significant impacts (p < 0.05 or p < 0.001) of vitamin D treatment on various physiological markers. Specifically, vitamin D treatment led to improved electrolyte and mineral balance, reduced random glucose and HbA1c levels, and favorable changes in lipid profiles (lower total cholesterol and triglycerides, increased HDL, decreased LDL and VLDL). Furthermore, vitamin D improved cellular function in salivary glands and ameliorated detrimental histological changes associated with diabetes and vitamin D deficiency, restoring oral acid-base balance by increasing salivary pH. These findings collectively support the therapeutic and preventive efficacy of vitamin D in mitigating diabetic complications and restoring physiological balance. Conclusion: Diabetes adversely affected the salivary glands, resulting in atrophy, acinar degeneration, ductal dilation, and augmented fibrous tissue, hence modifying secretion. Vitamin D significantly influences salivary glands, potentially mitigating diabetes-related vascular complications.