Abstract
[...]relative expression for the assayed genes was determined using the 2-AACT method as described by Livak and Schmittgen (2001). In the diabetic groups administered with vitamin D and/or pomegranate, for both mothers and embryos, our observations revealed a notable mild improvement of myocardial cell proliferation and organization. [...]the myocardial cells showed normal cellularity and architecture with mitigated leukocytic activity and myofibril vacuolation (Fig. 4a C-El). In STZ-diabetic mothers and their embryos supplemented with calcitriol and/or pomegranate peel extract, our results showed considerable refinement and amelioration of myocardial cells, as well as diminished vacuolation, pyknosis and leukocytic infiltration. [...]the oxidative capacity was dramatically improved, associated with decreased inflammatory and fibrotic activities. [...]the anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties of calcitriol and/or pomegranate played crucial roles in the cardio-protective potential in STZ-diabetic rats.