The Effect of Atorvastatin on the Pancreas of Adult Male Albino Rats and the Possible Protective Role of Resveratrol (Histological, Immunohistochemical and Biochemical Study)

Introduction: Hyperlipidaemia is a dangerous condition that may lead to atherosclerosis and various cardiovascular diseases. Different drugs are taken to reduce hyperlipidaemia such as Statins. Recently various side effects for statins have been detected clinically that actually restrict their prescription. Resveratrol is a natural phenol and is produced naturally by several plants and proved to have both antioxidant & anti-inflammatory actions.
Aim of the Study: This research has been aimed to investigate the effect of Atorvastatin on the pancreas and the probable protective action of Resveratrol.
Materials and Methods: Forty adult male albino rats were divided into four equal groups and were received drugs orally as a single daily dose for one week. Control group (I): received 1ml normal saline. Resveratrol group (II): received dose 30 mg/kg. Atorvastatin group (III): received dose 80 mg/Kg. Group IV: received Resveratrol concomitant with Atorvastatin with the same doses as pervious groups.
All rats were sacrificed one day following the last dose and blood samples were gathered for biochemical study of serum amylase and lipase. Pancreas specimens were obtained and processed for histological and immunohistochemical study.
Results: Atorvastatin-treated rats showed degeneration of pancreatic acini. The acinar cells showed cytoplasmic vacuoles with dilated RER and depleted zymogen granules. Also, inflammatory cell infiltration, dilated congested blood vessels with hemorrhage and marked deposition of collagen fibers were observed. The islets of Langerhans showed apparent reduced cells number. α cells and to more extent β cells revealed degeneration. The immunohistochemical results revealed marked increase in vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and caspase-3 expressions. The biochemical study revealed remarkable elevation in the serum amylase and lipase. The concomitant administration of Resveratrol with Atorvastatin minimizes these changes. Conclusion: Atorvastatin has been proved to induce pancreatic histological changes and these changes can be attenuated by Resveratrol when given concomitantly with it.