Protective effects of sodium selenite on insulin secretion and diabetic retinopathy in rats with type 1 diabetes mellitus.

The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of sodium selenite on pancreatic β cells and diabetic retinopathy in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) rats. Diabetes was induced by administration of streptozotocin (STZ) and both diabetic and control animals were treated with sodium selenite to measure body weight, food and water intake as well as blood glucose level. Additionally, immunohistochemistry was performed to detect the levels of insulin secretion in pancreatic β cells. Apoptosis level of pancreatic cells in rats was determined by apoptosis kit. Retinal tissues were stained with hematoxylin-eosin and the area of retinal capillary was measured by Image-Pro Plus 6.0 software. Food and water intake coupled with blood glucose level were increased while body weight of rats was decreased in STZ group. After treatment with sodium selenite, High-Sel group and Low-Sel group showed decreased food intake coupled with blood glucose level and concomitantly increased body weight (vs. STZ group). Of note, the insulin secretion in pancreatic β cells as well as serum insulin levels were strikingly heightened while apoptosis level of pancreatic tissues was lowered in the High-Sel group (vs. STZ and Low-Sel groups). Additionally, both High-Sel and Low-Sel groups showed a small area of retinal capillary (vs. STZ group). Sodium selenite could promote the levels of insulin secretion in pancreatic β cells of T1DM rats, and concomitantly ameliorate diabetic retinopathy.