MAGNESIUM SUPPLEMENTATION OF STZ-DIABETIC RATS - LACK OF EFFECT ON DIABETIC CARDIOMYOPATHY

The effects of Mg supplementation on glucose tolerance and diabetes-induced cardiomyopathy were investigated in STZ-diabetic, male Wistar rats. MgSO4 was administered in the drinking water at a concentration of 0.3 g/l for diabetic, and 0.9 g/l for nondiabetic, supplemented rats. This adjustment resulted in similar supplemental Mg intakes for both groups. Plasma Mg levels were significantly depleted in untreated diabetic rats, but were restored to normal levels in the Mg-treated, diabetic animals. Blood glucose levels at termination and the areas under the curve of glucose tolerance test responses were not significantly different between the treated and untreated diabetic groups. Myocardial function, depressed in the untreated diabetic group compared to both treated and untreated controls, was also not improved by Mg supplementation.