The protective role of Vitamin E against copper-induced histopathological changes in rat rectum: An experimental study

Objectives This study aims to evaluate the impact of Vitamin E supplementation on mitigating copper-induced histopathological changes in rat rectum tissues. Material and Methods Twenty-five Wistar rats were divided into five groups and subjected to different dosages of copper sulfate, Vitamin E, or a combination. Tissue samples were collected, processed, and stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin for histopathological examination. Results Histopathological analysis revealed significant alterations in the rat rectum following exposure to copper sulfate alone, including decreased cryptgoblet cells and mucosal lymphocyte mobilization. Vitamin E supplementation showed mitigated effects, with signs of active mucosal congestion and lymphocyte mobilization. However, when rats were administered copper sulfate followed by Vitamin E, histopathological changes were normalized, indicating a protective role for Vitamin E. Conversely, rats exposed to copper sulfate without subsequent Vitamin E supplementation exhibited severe inflammatory responses and submucosal vascular ulceration. Conclusion Vitamin E demonstrates a protective effect against copper-induced histopathological changes in rat rectum tissues, potentially mediated through its antioxidant properties. Further molecular studies are warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Hematoxylin and Eosin staining proved instrumental in identifying and characterizing these histopathological alterations.