Ovarian histomorphometric changes in adult offspring of diabetic rat mothers

In pregnant mothers, maternal diabetes occurs when the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin, which leads to increase blood glucose concentration in the mother and consequently in the foetus, causing various neonatal problems. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of maternal diabetes on foetal ovarian structure. Sixteen adult female rats were allocated in two equal groups. Diabetes was induced in one group by alloxan. Both groups became pregnant by natural matting. Ninety days after birth, the female offspring were terminated, the body weight and blood glucose of the animals measured and their ovaries removed. Various histological parameters were determined using histological techniques. Results revealed a significant increase in body weight and blood glucose in the offspring of diabetic mothers (ODM) compared to that of controls. The weight, volume and diameter of the ovary and ovarian capsule thickness were decreased in the ODM group. The number and diameter of primary, preantral, antral and preovulatory follicles and corpora lutea were decreased in ovaries in the ODM. Maternal hyperglycaemia exhibited deleterious effects on the reproductive system of their offspring © 2012 Springer-Verlag London Limited.