Ultra-structural changes in cells from the CNS in offspring from diabetic rats

This study was conducted to evaluate the cytological effects of maternal diabetes in the central nervous system (CNS). Sixteen adult female rats were divided in two groups and diabetes was induced in one group using alloxan. Both groups became pregnant by natural mating. At day 7 after birth, the cerebrum, cerebellum and spinal cord were collected from offspring of all rats. The weight of the neonates and their blood glucose were measured. Various cellular parameters were determined using transmission electron microscopy. Results revealed changes in the neurons of the grey matter of the cerebrum, cerebellum and spinal cord in the offspring of diabetic mothers (ODM) compared to controls. Mitochondrial abnormalities were also detected; mitochondrial cristae were destroyed and the mitochondria showed signs of vacuolation whilst increased heterochromatin was also noted. The density of neurons and neuroglial cells in the cerebrum, cerebellum and spinal cord was decreased in ODM compared with the control group. The body weight and blood glucose of ODM were significantly higher than that of controls (p < 0.05). Maternal hyperglycaemia exhibits deleterious effects on the cells of the CNS during foetal life that affects the density of neurons, mitochondria and nuclei which persist through the post-neonatal period.