Ascorbic acid and α-tocopherol protect anticancer drug cisplatin induced nephrotoxicity in mice: a comparative study

Natural product mitigation of ferroptosis in platinum-based chemotherapy toxicity: targeting the underpinning oxidative signaling pathways

OBJECTIVES

Platinum-based anticancer chemotherapy (PAC) represents a cornerstone in cancer treatment, retaining its status as the gold standard therapy. However, PAC's efficacy is countered by significant toxicities, such as nephrotoxicity, ototoxicity, and neurotoxicity. Recent studies have linked these toxicities to ferroptosis, characterized by iron accumulation, reactive oxygen species generation, and lipid peroxidation. This review explores the mechanisms underlying PAC-induced toxicities, focusing on the involvement of ferroptosis with three major PAC drugs-cisplatin, carboplatin, and oxaliplatin. Further, we provide a comprehensive analysis of the natural product mitigation of PAC-induced ferroptotic toxicity.

KEY FINDINGS

The mechanistic role of ferroptosis in cisplatin- and oxaliplatin-induced toxicities has been investigated, while studies on carboplatin-induced ferroptotic toxicities are lacking. Natural compounds targeting molecular pathways of ferroptosis have been explored to mitigate PAC-induced ferroptotic toxicity.

CONCLUSION

While ferroptosis in cisplatin- and oxaliplatin-induced toxicities has been investigated, there remains a notable dearth of studies examining its involvement in carboplatin-induced toxicities. Hence, further exploration is warranted to define the role of ferroptosis in carboplatin-induced toxicities, and its further mitigation. Moreover, in-depth mechanistic evaluation is necessary to establish natural products evaluated against PAC-induced ferroptosis, as PAC adjuvants.

α-Tocopherol Ameliorates Redox Equilibrium Disorders and Reduces Inflammatory Response Caused by Diclofenac-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Male Wistar Rats

Background Diclofenac (DCF), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is widely used for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, but it can also be nephrotoxic. Vitamin E (α-tocopherol) has been shown to protect against renal toxicity caused by various agents, including NSAIDs. This study aims to evaluate the pathophysiology of renal damage and the nephroprotective effect of vitamin E against DCF-induced renal damage in male Wistar rats. Animal and methods Twenty-four male Wistar rats, divided into six equal groups, were used for the study. Group 1 (control group) was treated with distilled water only, while the other groups received either high or low doses of DCF with or without a fixed dose of vitamin E. Renal function was assessed by measuring serum urea, creatinine, and kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1). Oxidative damage and renal antioxidant levels were also assessed. Additionally, the expression of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), renal cytokine tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and histopathological changes were evaluated. Results DCF caused a significant increase in serum urea, creatinine, KIM-1, TNF-α, NF-κB, and malondialdehyde levels compared to the control group. However, in the groups treated with DCF plus vitamin E, a significant reduction (P<0.05) in the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and malondialdehyde was observed, along with improvement in renal function indices, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase levels comparable to the control group. The observed renal histopathological changes were consistent with the results of the biochemical parameters between the treated groups and the normal control rats. Conclusion Findings from this investigation suggested that DCF can be nephrotoxic at a certain dose when used for a prolonged duration. Co-administration of vitamin E suppressed the elevated inflammatory cytokines and led to changes in the cell redox-sensitive signaling pathways induced by DCF, with eventual amelioration of the nephrotoxicity.

The effect of vitamin C supplementation on favipiravir-induced oxidative stress and proinflammatory damage in livers and kidneys of rats

Background: Favipiravir (FPV), an effective antiviral agent, is a drug used to treat influenza and COVID-19 by inhibiting the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) of RNA viruses. FPV has the potential to increase oxidative stress and organ damage. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the oxidative stress and inflammation caused by FPV in the liver and kidneys of rats, as well as to investigate the curative effects of vitamin C (VitC).Methods: A total of 40 Sprague-Dawley male rats were randomly and equally divided into the following five groups: 1st; Control, 2nd; FPV = 20 mg/kg, 3rd; FPV = 100 mg/kg, 4th; FPV = 20 mg/kg + VitC (150 mg/kg), and 5th; FPV = 100 mg/kg + VitC (150 mg/kg) groups. Rats were given either FPV (orally) or FPV plus VitC (intramuscular) for 14 days. Rat blood, liver, and kidney samples were collected at 15 days to be analyzed for oxidative and histological changes.Results: FPV administration resulted in an increase in proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) in the liver and kidney, as well as oxidative and histopathologic damage. FPV increased TBARS levels significantly (p < .05) and decreased GSH and CAT levels in liver and kidney tissues but had no effect on SOD activity. VitC supplementation significantly reduced TNF-a, IL-6, and TBARS levels while increasing GSH and CAT levels (p < .05). Furthermore, VitC significantly attenuated FPV-induced histopathological alterations associated with oxidative stress and inflammation in the liver and kidney tissues (p < .05).Conclusion: FPV caused liver and kidney damage in rats. In contrast, co-administration of FPV with VitC improved FPV-induced oxidative, pro-inflammatory, and histopathological changes.

An insight investigation to the antiurolithic activity of Trachyspermum ammi using the in vitro and in vivo experiments

The crude extract of Trachyspermum ammi seeds (Ta.Cr) was studied for its antiurolithic activity using the in vivo and in vitro experiments. In the in vivo experiments, Ta.Cr treatment showed a diuretic activity at the dose of 30 and 100 mg/kg and exhibited curative effect in male hyperoxaluric Wistar rats, which received 0.75% ethylene glycol (EG) in drinking water given for 3 weeks, with 1% ammonium chloride (AC) for initial three days. In the in vitro experiments, Ta.Cr delayed the slopes of nucleation and inhibited the calcium oxalate (CaOx) crystal aggregation in a concentration-dependent manner like that of potassium citrate. Ta.Cr also inhibited DPPH free radicals like standard antioxidant drug butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), and significantly reduced cell toxicity and LDH release in Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells, exposed to oxalate (0.5 mM) and COM (66 µg/cm²) crystals. In isolated rabbit urinary bladder strips, Ta.Cr relaxed high K⁺ (80 mM) and CCh (1 µM)-induced contractions, showing antispasmodic activity. The findings of this study suggest that the antiurolithic activity of crude extract of Trachyspermum ammi seeds may be mediated by a number of mechanisms, including a diuretic, an inhibitor of CaOx crystal aggregation, an antioxidant, renal epithelial cell protection, and an antispasmodic, thus, showing the therapeutic potential in urolithiasis, for which there is no viable non-invasive option in modern medicine.

Detam 1 black soybean against cisplatin-induced acute ren failure on rat model via antioxidant, antiinflammatory and antiapoptosis potential

Background and aim

Cis-Diamminedichloroplatinum (II) (Cisplatin) is one of the most synthetic anticancer drug but have several adverse effects and one of them is acute ren failure. Cisplatin can induce nephrotoxicity occur via the toxic generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Black soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.) has been reported contain high levels of phenolics and anthocyanins that has antioxidant activity. This study aims to determine the effect of ethanol extract of black soybean (EEBS) against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats.

Experimental procedure

Cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity rats treated with EEBS and the blood samples taken on days 0, 9, and 18. The effects of EEBS was evaluated by determining Interferon-γ (IFN-γ), Caspase-3 (Casp-3), and Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) expression using immunohistochemistry (IHC), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), Uric Acid (UA) content and catalase (CAT) content in the blood plasma with colorimetric assay kit.

Results and conclusion

Based on the results, EEBS treatment had successfully reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IFN-γ, and improved physiological condition by lowering BUN and UA content while increasing CAT activity. No significant effect was found in Casp-3 expression. EEBS has potential to improve acute renal failure condition through inflammatory suppression and renal function improvement.

Modulatory role of garlic ( Allium sativum) extract against cisplatin- induced nephrotoxicity in female albino rats and their offspring

Background: Cisplatin (CP) is one of the chemotherapeutic drugs widely utilized in the treatment of several malignancies. However, recently; its use has been limited because of its hazardous health drawbacks. Previous researches confirmed that CP has severe deleterious side effects on pregnant mothers and their fetuses. Garlic ( Allium sativum) extract has been claimed to exhibit potent antioxidative and free radical scavenging abilities. Aim: This work is mainly designed to evaluate the potential therapeutic role of garlic extract against CP-induced nephrotoxicity in pregnant rats and their offspring. Methods: 24 pregnant rats were used in the current study. They were randomly allocated into four groups (n=6):  control, garlic, CP, and CP + garlic group. At the end of the weaning period, the mothers and the offsprings of all groups were sacrificed, the kidneys were immediately excised, and processed for histological and biochemical investigations. Also, blood samples were withdrawn and processed for estimation of the assigned biochemical parameters.   Results: The renal histological sections from CP-treated mother rats displayed pronounced histopathological lesions however, their offspring showed mild renal histopathological lesions if compared with those of their mothers. The levels of renal tissue Superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase enzymes were significantly decreased. On the contrary, the levels of malondialdehyde, serum urea, and creatinine were significantly increased in CP-treated mother rats and their offspring as compared with control. The percentage value of caspase 3 activity was markedly elevated in the renal tissues of CP-treated mother rats and their offspring compared to the control group. Supplementation of garlic extract to the CP treated rats; the overall histological lesions, as well as biochemical parameters, were restored nearly to the control ones. It is concluded that garlic ( Allium sativum) extract has a powerful ameliorative role against CP-induced nephrotoxicity in pregnant rats and their offspring.

Baicalein and Αlpha-Tocopherol Inhibit Toll-like Receptor Pathways in Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity

Cisplatin (CP) is a conventional chemotherapeutic agent with serious adverse effects. Its toxicity was linked to the stimulation of oxidative stress and inflammation. As a result, this study explored the protective effect of baicalein and alpha-tocopherol in nephrotoxicity induced by cisplatin. Until receiving an intraperitoneal injection of CP (3 mg/kg BW), rats were given baicalein orally 100 mg/kg for seven days or/and a single intraperitoneal injection of α-tocopherol 250 mg/kg. Renal function was tested to explore whether baicalein and α-tocopherol have any beneficial effects; blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum creatinine, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, antioxidant activity biomarkers and histopathology of renal tissue, oxidative stress biomarkers, inflammatory response markers, and histopathological features of kidney architecture were measured. Cisplatin treatment resulted in extreme renal failure, as measured by high serum creatinine and BUN levels and severe renal changes. Cisplatin therapy resulted in increased lipid peroxidation and decreased glutathione and superoxide dismutase levels, reflecting oxidative stress. Upon treatment with α-tocopherol, baicalein, and combined therapy, there was augmentation in the antioxidant status as well as a reduction in IL-6, NF-κB, TNF, TLR2, and TLR4 and a significant increase in Keap-1 and NRF-2. The combined treatment was the most effective and the nearest to the normal status. These findings suggest that baicalein and α-tocopherol may be useful in preventing cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity.

Protective effects of recombinant human golimumab and pentoxifylline in nephrotoxicity induced by cisplatin

In cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity, the significant role of activation of inflammatory pathways has been reported earlier. Studies indicate elevated expression and activity of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in both, serum and kidneys of cisplatin-treated animals. Golimumab, an anti-TNF biologic, has been approved for the management of many inflammatory conditions. This experiment was planned and executed to evaluate the impact of golimumab on renal function, inflammation in cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in mice, and oxidative stress. Cisplatin (22 mg/kg) as a single intraperitoneal injection was used to induce nephrotoxicity in mice. Golimumab was administered at 24 mg/kg for 7 days by subcutaneous route. Pentoxifylline (PTX) was administered for 7 days (150 mg/kg) as a reference standard. Renal functions, oxidative stress, and inflammation were evaluated on the seventh day. Cisplatin administration in mice caused a significant rise in serum cystatin C, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin. A significant rise of urinary clusterin, kidney injury molecule-1, and β-N-acetylglucosaminidase levels was also seen in cisplatin-treated animals. Furthermore, cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity was associated with a significant increase in oxidative stress and inflammation in serum and kidneys. Golimumab treatment significantly prevented the cisplatin-induced alteration in markers of renal function and renal damage. There was a significant reduction in oxidative stress and inflammation in golimumab-treated animals. Furthermore, the histopathological evaluation also revealed inverted changes in the proximal tubules after golimumab treatment in kidneys after cisplatin toxicity. The standard drug, PTX, also prevented nephrotoxicity caused by cisplatin as indicated by the recovery in renal function, reduction in oxidative stress and inflammation. These results indicate that golimumab was effective in nephrotoxicity induced by cisplatin through inhibition of oxidative stress, and inflammatory response.

Pharmacological Effects of Cisplatin Combination with Natural Products in Cancer Chemotherapy

Cisplatin and other platinum-based drugs, such as carboplatin, ormaplatin, and oxaliplatin, have been widely used to treat a multitude of human cancers. However, a considerable proportion of patients often relapse due to drug resistance and/or toxicity to multiple organs including the liver, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, and the cardiovascular, hematologic, and nervous systems. In this study, we sought to provide a comprehensive review of the current state of the science highlighting the use of cisplatin in cancer therapy, with a special emphasis on its molecular mechanisms of action, and treatment modalities including the combination therapy with natural products. Hence, we searched the literature using various scientific databases., such as MEDLINE, PubMed, Google Scholar, and relevant sources, to collect and review relevant publications on cisplatin, natural products, combination therapy, uses in cancer treatment, modes of action, and therapeutic strategies. Our search results revealed that new strategic approaches for cancer treatment, including the combination therapy of cisplatin and natural products, have been evaluated with some degree of success. Scientific evidence from both in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrates that many medicinal plants contain bioactive compounds that are promising candidates for the treatment of human diseases, and therefore represent an excellent source for drug discovery. In preclinical studies, it has been demonstrated that natural products not only enhance the therapeutic activity of cisplatin but also attenuate its chemotherapy-induced toxicity. Many experimental studies have also reported that natural products exert their therapeutic action by triggering apoptosis through modulation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and p53 signal transduction pathways and enhancement of cisplatin chemosensitivity. Furthermore, natural products protect against cisplatin-induced organ toxicity by modulating several gene transcription factors and inducing cell death through apoptosis and/or necrosis. In addition, formulations of cisplatin with polymeric, lipid, inorganic, and carbon-based nano-drug delivery systems have been found to delay drug release, prolong half-life, and reduce systemic toxicity while other formulations, such as nanocapsules, nanogels, and hydrogels, have been reported to enhance cell penetration, target cancer cells, and inhibit tumor progression.

The cytotoxicity of cyclophosphamide is enhanced in combination with monascus pigment

Monascus pigment is derived from red-mold rice fermented by monascus purpureus and utilized as a natural coloring agent and natural food additive in East Asia. Monascus pigment works as a radical scavenger. Some antioxidant combine cancer chemo­therapy to protect normal tissue because chemotherapy induce side effect for normal tissue. This combination therapy can attenuate the cytotoxicity of anti­cancer drugs by antioxidants effects. However, the effect of this combination therapy for cancer cells dose not investigate enough. In this study, we investigated the combination effect of anti­oxidants and anti­cancer drugs. We selected an anti­oxidant as monascus pigment and following four anti­cancer drugs: doxorubicin, tamoxifen, paclitaxicel, and cyclophosphamide. Combination treatment with monascus pigment and cyclophosphamide enhanced the cytotoxicity of cyclophosphamide. Moreover, this combination treatment accelerated apoptosis. The spot on TLC assay board of the monascus pigment and cyclophosphamide mixture is different from the spot of monascus pigment alone and cyclophosphamide alone. The interaction between monascus pigment and cyclo­phosphamide can produce some cytotoxicity compounds or accelerate intracellular cyclophosphamide accumulation. Hence, we concluded that the interaction of both cyclophosphamide and monascus pigment involved enhancement of cyclophosphamide cytotoxicity.

Amelioration of Cisplatin-induced renal inflammation by Recombinant Human Golimumab in Mice

BACKGROUND

One of the most commonly used anti-cancer agents, Cisplatin (CDDP) often causes nephrotoxicity by eliciting inflammation and oxidative stress. Golimumab, an anti-TNF biologic, is prescribed for the management of numerous inflammatory ailments like psoriatic and rheumatoid arthritis ulcerative colitis, and ankylosing spondylitis.

OBJECTIVE

Current study has explored the effects of anti-TNF biologics golimumab on mice due to cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity.

METHOD

Renal toxicity was caused by administration of single cisplatin injection at 25 mg/kg by intraperitoneal (i/p) route. Golimumab (24 mg/kg, s.c.) was administered consecutively for 7 days. The parameters such as renal functions, oxidative stress, inflammation, and renal damage were evaluated on the 7th day of experiments.

RESULTS

Cisplatin administration caused nephrotoxicity as shown by a significant elevation of various parameters viz; serum creatinine, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), urea nitrogen (BUN), and cystatin C. There was a significant rise in urinary clusterin, kidney injury molecule 1 (KIM-1), and β-N-acetylglucosaminidase (NAG) concentrations in the animals treated with cisplatin-. The markers of oxidative stress (malondialdehyde, reduced glutathione, and catalase), inflammation (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-10, IL-1β, MCP-1, ICAM-1, and TGF-β1), and apoptosis (caspase-3) were also altered in serum and/or kidneys of cisplatin animals. Further, cisplatin-caused histopathological changes in proximal tubular cells as observed in the H&E staining of renal tissue. Golimumab treatment reduced all markers of kidney injury and attenuated cell death. Golimumab significantly reduced inflammatory cytokines TNFα, IL- 6, MCP-1, IL- 1β, ICAM-1, and TGF-β1 and increased anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 in cisplatin-intoxicated mice.

CONCLUSION

The study results suggest that golimumab prevented nephrotoxicity induced by cisplatin- through inhibition of oxidative stress, apoptotic cell death inflammatory response, thus improving renal function.

Prevention of colistin induced nephrotoxicity: a review of preclinical and clinical data

Introduction: The emergence of antimicrobial resistance in Gram-negative bacteria is a concerning challenge for health systems. The polymyxins, including colistin, are one of the limited available options these pathogens management. Nephrotoxicity, beside neurotoxicity is the major dose-limiting adverse reaction of polymyxins, with an up to 60% prevalence. As oxidative stress, inflammatory pathways and apoptosis are considered as the main mechanisms of colistin-induced kidney damage, various studies have evaluated antioxidant and/or antiapoptotic compounds for its prevention. In this article, we reviewed animal and human studies on these probable preventive measures.Area covered: PubMed, Scopus, and google scholar databases were searched using several combination of 'colistin', 'polymyxin E', 'CMS', 'Colistimethate sodium', 'nephrotoxicity', 'kidney injury', 'kidney damage', 'renal injury', 'renal damage', 'nephroprotectants', 'renoprotective', 'nephroprotective', and 'prevention'. All eligible articles including animal and human studies up to the end of 2020 were included.Expert opinion: Most of available studies are in vivo researches on anti-oxidant and anti-apoptotic agents like NAC, vitamin C and E, silymarin, and curcumin which mostly showed promising findings. However, limited human studies on NAC and vitamin C did not demonstrate considerable efficacy. So, before proposing these compounds, further well-designed randomized clinical trials are necessary.

Toxicological Evaluation of Novel Cyclohexenone Derivative in an Animal Model through Histopathological and Biochemical Techniques

Toxicity studies were conducted to provide safety data of potential drug candidates by determining lethal and toxic doses. This study was designed for pre-clinical evaluation of novel cyclohexenone derivative with respect to the acute and sub-acute toxicity along with the diabetogenic potential. Acute and sub-acute toxicity were assessed after intraperitoneal (i.p) injection of the investigational compound through selected doses for 21 days. This was followed by assessment of isolated body organs (liver, kidney, heart and pancreas) via biochemical indicators and histopathological techniques. No signs of toxicity were revealed in the study of acute toxicity. Similarly, a sub-acute toxicity study showed no significant difference in biochemical indicators on 11th and 21st days between treated and control groups. However, in blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and random blood glucose/sugar (RBS) values, significant differences were recorded. Histopathological evaluation of liver, kidney, pancreas and heart tissues revealed mild to severe changes in the form of steatosis, inflammation, fibrosis, necrosis and myofibrillary damages on 11th and 21st days of treatment. In conclusion, the median lethal dose of the tested compound was expected to be greater than 500 mg/kg. No significant change occurred in selected biomarkers, except BUN and RBS levels, but a histopathological study showed moderate toxic effect on liver, kidney, pancreas and heart tissues by the cyclohexenone derivative.

Evaluation of genoprotection against malathion induced toxicity by Orthosiphon thymiflorus Sleesen

BACKGROUND

Pesticide toxicity is considered to be one of the significant reason for increased incidence of cancer. Plants are treasure troves of active phytochemical compounds which are used as herbal medicine as well as nutraceuticals.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the genoprotective potential of Orthosiphon thymiflorus (Roth) Sleesen, (Lamiaceae) against the toxicity induced by malathion by a battery of four in vivo assays in Swiss albino mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Micronucleus assay was performed for analyzing the micronuclei induction and ratio of polychromatic and normochromatic erythrocytes (PCE/NCE). Anticlastogenic and mito depressive effect of the methanol and hexane extracts of O.thymiflorus were evaluated by chromosome aberration assay. Alkali comet assay was performed to assess double strand DNA repair. DNA damage sensing ability of the bone marrow cells were assessed by γ-H2AX foci formation. Phytochemical screening of hexane and methanol extract was done by GC-MS analysis.

RESULT

O. thymiflorus extracts showed a dose dependant protective effect in all assays. It significantly decreased the frequency of micronuclei and improved PCE/NCE value in post treated groups of animals. Malathion induced clastogenic aberrations were effectively attenuated by methanol and hexane extracts. DNA comet assay showed that malathion induced damage can be protected by O. thymiflorus extracts. Multiple foci formation in γ-H2AX assay confirmed the activation of DNA repair proteins in post treated animals.

CONCLUSION

Genoprotective effect of O. thymiflorus against malathion induced toxicity was confirmed. This study would be helpful to initiate more research including clinical using O. thymiflorus extract against pesticide induced toxicity.

Effect of vitamin E on cisplatin-induced memory impairment in male rats

OBJECTIVE

Neurotoxicity is an adverse effect caused by cisplatin due to inflammation and oxidative stress in the central nervous system. The present study aimed to assess the effects of vitamin E injection on the learning and memory of rats with cisplatin-induced cognitive impairment.

METHODS

Male rats were administered with cisplatin (2 mg/kg/7 day; intraperitoneally [i i.p.]) and/or vitamin E (200 mg/kg/7 day; i.p.) for 1 week, and the control group received saline solution. Spatial memory was evaluated using Morris water maze (MWM). In addition, the hippocampal concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA), thiol, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were measured using biochemical methods.

RESULTS

According to the findings, cisplatin significantly increased the escape latency, while decreasing the time spent and travelled pathway in the target quadrant on the final trial day compared to the control group. Furthermore, pre-treatment with vitamin E significantly reversed all the results in the spatial memory test. The biochemical data indicated that vitamin E could decrease MDA activity and increase thiol and SOD activity compared to the control group.

CONCLUSION

According to the results, vitamin E could improve cisplatin-induced memory impairment possibly through affecting the hippocampal oxidative status.

Spatial evaluation of long-term metabolic changes induced by cisplatin nephrotoxicity

Cisplatin is a widely used chemotherapeutic agent. However, it is causing nephrotoxic side effects including a reduced glomerular filtration rate and acute kidney injury. Although kidneys can recover to an extent from the treatment, long-term damage is possible. While a lot of research is focusing on short-term effects, little is known about adverse metabolic effects in the process of recovery. In this study, male Han Wistar rats were dosed with a single intraperitoneal injection of 3 mg/kg cisplatin. Urine and kidney samples were harvested 3, 8 and 26 days after administration. Tubular injury was demonstrated through urinary biomarkers. Complementing this, mass spectrometry imaging gives insight on molecular alterations on a spatial level, thus making it well suited to analyze short- and long-term disturbances. Various metabolic pathways seem to be affected, as changes in a wide range of metabolites were observed between treated and control animals. Besides previously reported early changes in kidney metabolism, unprecedented long-term effects were detected including deviation in nucleotides, antioxidants, and phospholipids.

Vitamin E in the prevention of vancomycin-induced nephrotoxicity

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The use of vancomycin, as a key therapeutic choice for treatment of hazardous infections, may be associated with nephrotoxicity. The proposed mechanism is the indirect production of reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of vitamin E as an antioxidant agent in the prevention of vancomycin-induced nephrotoxicity.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

In a matched-groups interventional study, patients who received vancomycin for any indication were assigned to vitamin E (n = 30) and control (n = 60) groups. The patients in experimental group received 400 units of oral vitamin E per day for 10 days started concurrently with vancomycin, while the patients in control group received vancomycin alone. Serum level of creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine clearance (CrCl), and 24-h urine output were determined and recorded before the start of interventions, every other day during therapy, and 12 h after the last dose of vancomycin in 10th day of therapy for all patients. Also, the rate of acute kidney injury (AKI) in the two groups was recorded. Finally, the mean values of the measured parameters were compared between the groups.

FINDINGS / RESULTS

Treatment with vitamin E for 10 days resulted in a significant reduction of BUN (from 17.5 ± 7.8 mg/dL at baseline to 11.4 ± 4.8 mg/dL at the end; P < 0.001) along with slightly non-significant increase of CrCl (from 84.7 ± 18.9 mL/min at baseline to 91.3 ± 19.5 mL/min at the end; P = 0.301) in comparison to the control group. However, CrCl decreased significantly in the control group. Vitamin E had no significant effect on 24-h urine output. Regarding vancomycin-induced AKI, 12 cases were observed in the control group, while no case was reported in experimental group (P = 0.041).

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

This study showed the beneficial effect of add-on therapy of vitamin E besides vancomycin in reducing AKI, which could be considered as a new potential prophylactic therapy for vancomycin-induced nephrotoxicity.

Synergistic Effect of Vitamin C with Cisplatin for Inhibiting Proliferation of Gastric Cancer Cells

Background:

Ascorbic acid, known as vitamin C, has been used in combination with a number of cytotoxic agents in vitro and in vivo with contradictory results on its effectiveness. It is believed that vitamin C can sensitize different cancer cells to common therapy strategies such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. During current research, the combination effect of vitamin C with cisplatin was evaluated against gastric cancer cells.

Methods:

MTT-based proliferation assay, CI method, and flow cytometry technique were employed for the assessment of cell cycle and determination of apoptosis/necrosis on the AGS cell line.

Results:

Co-treatment of gastric cancer cells with vitamin C in its IC₅₀ dose in addition to cisplatin in both IC₅₀ (10 µg/ml) and five times less (2 µg/ml) doses could increase the cytotoxicity effect of cisplatin in a synergistic manner. Moreover, the pointed co-treatment approach could induce the cell count in sub-G0 phase while reducing it in the G0/G1, G2/M, and S phases. Further findings showed that the combined dose of vitamin C and cisplatin could increase the percentage of apoptotic and necrotic cells in comparison with a single dose of cisplatin.

Conclusion:

This study introduces a possible approach for the treatment of gastric cancer with more potency and less amount of administered cisplatin to induce toxicity.

Blackberry juice anthocyanidins limit cisplatin-induced renal pathophysiology in mice

Some studies have showed that intake of blackberry juice (BBJ) can prevent urinary tract infections. However, there is a lack of studies that evaluate the mechanisms by which BBJ has protective effect. Thus, the aim of current study was to evaluate the effects of BBJ supplementation on cisplatin-induced renal pathophysiology in mice. Mice were supplemented with BBJ (10 mL/kg) for seven days. One hour after the last supplementation with BBJ, mice received cisplatin (10 mg/kg, i.p.). Seventy-two hours after cisplatin administration, blood was collected and biochemical analysis were performed (urea and creatinine), kidney was dissected and utilized in histological and oxidative evaluations. Cisplatin caused severe injury in renal tissue, in markers of renal damage (urea and creatinine) generated increased of plasmatic levels. Besides that, the cisplatin induced decreased of enzymes activities in renal tissue (superoxide dismutase, glutathione S-transferase and catalase). In contrast, BBJ supplementation protected against histopathological alterations through decreased in urea and creatinine levels and modulation of catalase enzyme activity. Thus, BBJ supplementation protected the renal system of mice from deleterious effects. We suggest that high concentrations of Cyanidin 3-O-glucoside and Cyanidin 3-O-rutinoside are responsible for antioxidant role of BBJ supplementation in renal pathophysiology induced by cisplatin exposure. Also, these results reinforcing the importance of including BBJ in the human diet aimed at preventing renal diseases.

Nephroprotective effects of red beetroot-based beverages against gentamicin-induced renal stress

The objective of this study was to assess the nephroprotective effects of red beetroot-based beverages to ameliorate gentamicin-induced renal stress. For the purpose, normal and nephrotoxicity-induced Sprague Dawley rats were pretreated with beetroot-based beverages (8 ml/kg per day) for 8 weeks. In nephrotoxicity-induced rats, renal stress was induced by administration of gentamicin at 85 mg/kg b.w. per day during the last week of the trial. Afterward, overnight-fasted rats were sacrificed, and their sera and kidneys were analyzed for renal health biomarkers which revealed ameliorative effect of red beet beverages. Particularly, the antioxidant enzymes in renal tissues and serum proteins were significantly improved, whereas lipid peroxidation, nitric oxide, urea and creatinine levels were momentously reduced in nephrotoxicity-induced rats. Furthermore, histological assessment indicated better renal portfolio in the rats treated with beet beverages. The findings suggested that red beetroot-based beverages promisingly ameliorate negative impacts of gentamicin-induced nephritic stress. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: High rates of morbidity arising from metabolic disorders have shifted the trends toward use of functional foods and nutraceuticals as a safer approach to avoid such ailments. This research checked the nephroprotective effect of beetroot-based beverages instead of extracts of red beetroot. The findings of this research support the use of red beetroot-based beverages as a promising approach to alleviate renal stress. Furthermore, dietary supplementation of functional products and nutraceutics derived from beetroot may be synchronized in clinical practices in future after sufficient research to avoid the onset of various degenerative disorders originating from oxidative/nitrosative stress. Before employing this dietary model to humans, further investigation is necessitated to observe safety in long-term administration of such products. Besides, therapeutic dietary modules can also be devised for already suffering individuals to manage the severity of the disease and help improving health.

Possible protective effect of platelet-rich plasma on a model of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats: A light and transmission electron microscopic study

BACKGROUND

Cisplatin (Cis), is a potent chemotherapeutic drug. However, Cis nephrotoxicity is high, thus limiting its use. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an autologous product, easy to get from blood centrifugation. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of PRP in reversing Cis-induced nephrotoxicity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-two adult albino rats were distributed into Group I, the control group; Group II, in which the rats received Cis (5 mg·kg^-1 ·day ^-1 , intraperitoneal); Group III and Group IV, in which the rats received Cis, followed by normal saline and PRP distribution, respectively (1 ml) over the renal surface 24 hr later. All rats were killed on the eighth day of the experiment. Histopathological changes were examined.

RESULTS

Glomerular atrophy, tubular degeneration, interrupted PAS reaction, highly expressed caspase-3, and ultra-structural changes were observed after Cis injection, which improved with PRP administration.

CONCLUSION

PRP reduced acute kidney injury through the epithelial GFs.

Cisplatin-Induced Rodent Model of Kidney Injury: Characteristics and Challenges

Cisplatin is an antitumor drug used in the treatment of a wide variety of malignancies. However, its primary dose-limiting side effect is kidney injury, which is a major clinical concern. To help understand mechanisms involved in the development of kidney injury, cisplatin rodent model has been developed. Given the complex pathogenesis of kidney injury, which involves both local events in the kidney and interconnected and interdependent systemic effects in the body, cisplatin rodent model is indispensable in the investigation of underlying mechanisms and potential treatment strategies of both acute and chronic kidney injury. Cisplatin rodent model is well appreciated and widely used model due to its simplicity. It has many similarities to human cisplatin nephrotoxicity, which are mentioned in the paper. In spite of its simplicity and wide applicability, there are also traps that need to be taken into account when using cisplatin model. The present paper is aimed at giving a concise insight into the complex characteristics of cisplatin rodent model and heterogeneity of cisplatin dosage regimens as well as outlining factors that can severely influence the outcome of the model and the study. Challenges for future research are also mentioned.

Avicularin reversed multidrug-resistance in human gastric cancer through enhancing Bax and BOK expressions

5-Fluorouracil (5-Fu) and cisplatin (DDP) as important therapies in treatment of human gastric cancer have been widely determined. However, the therapeutic effects are usually hampered due to drug resistance or toxicity at high concentrations for application. Avicularin (AL, quercetin-3-α-l-arabinofuranoside), a bio-active flavonol isolated from a number of plants, has been reported to display diverse pharmacological properties. In this study, we explored the hypothesis by which AL reversed 5-Fu or DDP resistance in gastric cancer and the underlying molecular mechanism. Here, in vitro, the drug-resistant cancer cells were incubated to AL or DDP alone or the combination of AL and DDP. Then, MTT, colony formation, Hoechst 33258, flow cytometry and western blot analysis were used to investigate the effects of AL in the regulation of drug-resistance gastric cancer cells. The results indicated that AL treatment markedly re-sensitizes the drug resistant cells (SGC-7901/5-Fu and SGC-7901/DDP) to cytotoxicity of 5-Fu or DDP. Molecular mechanism analysis indicated that AL and DDP combination treatment enhanced apoptosis in SGC-7901/DDP cells, accompanied with the up-regulation of cleaved Caspase-3 and PARP, as well as the activation of pro-apoptotic signals, including Bax and BOK. Significantly, down regulation of Bax or BOK expressions using Bax siRNA or BOK siRNA decreased the inhibitory role of DDP in apoptosis of SGC-7901/DDP cells pretreated with AL, demonstrating that AL-reversed DDP resistance was associated with Bax and BOK expression. In vivo, AL and DDP combination significantly reduced gastric tumor growth. Immunohistochemical analysis indicated that co-treatment of AL and DDP significantly induced apoptosis, and reduced tumor cell proliferation in tumor tissue samples. Furthermore, we also found that the Bax, BOK, cleaved Caspase-3 and PARP expression in tumor tissues were highly induced by AL and DDP co-treatment. Together, our findings may provide a novel combination therapeutic strategy in treatment of human gastric cancer.

The Role of Gamma Amino Butyric Acid in Cisplatin-induced Nephrotoxicity in Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Rats

Background:

Diabetes mellitus can change the risk of developing cancer. Cisplatin (CP) is a common antineoplastic drug. The major side effect of CP is nephrotoxicity. Gamma amino butyric acid (GABA) is an antioxidant agent that may have a protective role against CP-induced nephrotoxicity. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of GABA in CP-induced nephrotoxicity in hyperglycemic male and female rats.

Materials and Methods:

Sixty male and female Wistar diabetic rats were used in ten experimental groups. GABA alone groups received GABA (50 μmol/kg/d i.p.) for 12 days. CP alone groups received CP (2.5 mg/kg/d i.p.) for 6 days. Other groups received GABA in the form of therapy (T) + CP, prophylaxis (P) + CP, and prophylaxis-treatment (PT) + CP. Finally, blood samples were obtained, and animals were killed for kidney tissue investigation.

Results:

In female rats, the serum levels of creatinine (Cr) did not change by GABA rather than CP and also there were no significant changes in blood urea nitrogen to creatinine ratio (BUN/Cr). In male rats, plasma Cr level increased by GABA (P) and (T). Body weight loss was significantly different among groups (P < 0.05). BUN/Cr ratio significantly increased in CP and GABA (PT) + CP groups. In two genders, plasma Cr level significantly decreased in CP groups (P < 0.05). The kidney levels of malondialdehyde enhanced significantly in CP groups.

Conclusion:

Hyperglycemia has protective effect against CP-induced nephrotoxicity. GABA did not change this effect in female, but in male in the form of PT, GABA maintained it.

Vitamin C attenuates methotrexate-induced oxidative stress in kidney and liver of rats

Like several other anticancer drugs, methotrexate (MTX) causes side effects, such as neuropathic pain, hepatotoxicity, and nephrotoxicity. Abnormal production of reactive oxygen species has been suspected in the pathophysiology of MTX-induced hepatorenal toxicity. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the probable protective role of vitamin C (Vit C) on oxidative stress induced by MTX in the liver and kidney tissues of rats. A total of 32 rats were randomly and equally divided into four groups. The first group served as the control group. The second group received a single dose of 20 mg/kg of MTX intraperitoneally. To demonstrate our hypothesis, the third and the fourth groups received 250 mg/kg of Vit C for 3 days by oral gavage, with or without MTX treatment. At the end of the study, the liver and kidney tissues of the rats were collected and examined using histology. Both the tissues were assayed for malondialdehyde concentration and superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities. In hepatic and renal tissues, lipid peroxidation levels were increased, whereas SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px levels were decreased by MTX. All parameters, including CAT levels in hepatic tissue, were significantly restored after the administration of Vit C for 3 days. Similar to the biochemical findings, evidence of oxidative damage was examined in both types of tissues by histopathological examination. From the results of this study, we were able to observe that Vit C administration modulates the antioxidant redox system and reduces the renal and hepatic oxidative stress induced by MTX. Vit C can ameliorate the toxic effect of MTX in liver and kidney tissues of rat.

Synergistic protective effect of N-acetylcysteine and taurine against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats

Cisplatin (cis-diaminedichloroplatinum II; CDDP) is an effective anticancer drug, but it has limitations because of its nephrotoxicity. This study investigates the protective effect of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and taurine (TAU), both individually and in combination, against CDDP nephrotoxicity in rats. For this purpose, 48 male rats were assigned into eight groups (n=6) as follows: 1) control group, 2) NAC group, 3) TAU group, 4) NAC-TAU group, 5) CDDP group, 6) CDDP-NAC group, 7) CDDP-TAU group, and 8) CDDP-NAC-TAU group. Cisplatin was administered as a single intraperitoneal injection at a concentration of 6 mg/kg. Three days after CDDP administration, NAC (50 mg/kg) and/or TAU (50 mg/kg) were administered three times weekly for four consecutive weeks. Kidney function markers in serum, urinary glucose and protein, as well as oxidant and antioxidant parameters in renal tissue were assessed. Administration of CDDP significantly elevated urinary glucose and protein, as well as serum creatinine, urea, and uric acid. Moreover, CDDP enhanced lipid peroxidation and suppressed the major enzymatic antioxidants in the kidney tissue. Treatment with NAC or TAU protected against the alterations in the serum, urine, and renal tissue when used individually along with CDDP. Furthermore, a combined therapy of both was more effective in ameliorating CDDP-induced nephrotoxicity, which points out to their synergistic effect.

Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity; Protective Supplements and Gender Differences

Cisplatin (CDDP) has been widely used as a chemotherapeutic agent for solid tumors. The most common side effect of CDDP is nephrotoxicity, and many efforts have been made in the laboratory and the clinic to employ candidate adjuvants to CDDP to minimize this adverse influence. Many synthetic and herbal antioxidants as well as trace elements have been investigated for this purpose in recent years and a variety of positive and negative results have been yielded. However, no definitive supplement has so far been proposed to prevent CDDP-induced nephrotoxicity; however, this condition is gender related and the sex hormone estrogen may protect the kidney against CDDP damage. In this review, the results of research related to the effect of different synthetic and herbal antioxidants supplements are presented and discussed with suggestions included for future work.

Comparative analysis of gene expression between renal cortex and papilla in nedaplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats

To elucidate the mechanism of nephrotoxicity caused by anti-neoplastic platinum complex, nedaplatin (NDP), treatment with a particular focus on the renal papillary toxicity, we analysed the gene expression profiles of two renal regions, the cortex (RC) and the papilla (RP) in rat kidneys. Male Wistar rats received a single administration of 10 mg/kg intravenous NDP or vehicle alone (5% xylitol solution) and were sacrificed six days later. The kidneys were dissected into the RC and RP and used for histopathological and microarray analyses. Histopathologically, NDP caused characteristic renal lesions, such as necrosis, single cell necrosis (with TUNEL TdT-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labelling-positive) and regeneration/hyperplasia of the epithelial cells in both renal regions. Global gene expression analysis revealed that several genes involved in various functional categories were commonly deregulated in both renal regions, such as apoptosis, cell cycle regulation, DNA metabolism, cell migration/adhesion and cytoskeleton organization or genes induced as a perturbation of oxidative status and calcium homeostasis. Comparative analysis of gene expression between RC and RP revealed that genes encoding several subtypes of cytokeratins were identified as being specifically overexpressed in RP by the NDP treatment. Differential expression patterns of these selected genes observed by microarray analysis were further confirmed by quantitative real time RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry, which demonstrated increased expression of cytokeratins (CKs) 14 and 19 at the epithelium covering RP and/or collecting duct epithelium. Overall, the results contribute to understanding the renal molecular events of NDP-induced nephrotoxicity including novel potential biomarker genes encoding CKs 14 and 19 that may serve as indicators of renal papillary toxicity. Human & Experimental Toxicology (2007) 26, 767—780

Amikacin induced renal damage and the role of the antioxidants on neonatal rats

Amikacin (AK) is frequently used on the treatment of Gram-negative infections on neonates, but its usage is restricted because of nephrotoxicity. In this study, on neonatal rats, we aimed to investigate the effects of erythropoietin and vitamin E on AK induced nephrotoxicity. A total of 35 newborn Wistar Albino rats were divided into four groups: (1) injected with saline (serum physiological was administered to placebo controls), (2) injected with AK (1200 mg/kg), (3) injected with AK + vitamin E (150 mg/kg), (4) injected with AK + erythropoietin (EPO) (300 IU/kg/day). In renal tissue, AK levels were significantly high in all groups except the control. Tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO) levels were statistically higher in AK -treated group than the control. MDA and NO levels were significantly decreased with the administration of vitamin E and EPO. Glutathione peroxidase (GPX) levels were statistically low in AK group compared with the controls. The levels of GPX, in vitamin E group, were increased significantly. However, superoxide dismutase and catalase levels were not significantly different in none of the groups. Insulin-like growth factor-1 values in AK, EPO and vitamin E groups were significantly higher than the control group. Histomorphological changes such as tubular epithelial necrosis were seen in AK treated group. Histopathological improvements observed with EPO and vitamin E administration. AK nephrotoxicity is related to oxidative stress and is supported with biochemical and histopathological findings. Vitamin E and EPO, as antioxidants, can be useful renoprotective agents for ameliorating AK induced nephrotoxicity in neonates.

Protective Role of Aerobic Exercise Against Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Rats

BACKGROUND

Cisplatin (CP) is a chemotherapy drug and nephrotoxicity is considered as its major side effect. Aerobic exercise is well known as an approach to reduce the side effects of many drugs.

OBJECTIVES

This study was designed to determine the protective role of aerobic exercise against CP-induced nephrotoxicity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups. Group I had aerobic exercise on a treadmill one hour per day and five days per week for eight weeks. Then, the exercise protocol was continued for another week, but during this week, the animals also received CP (2.5 mg/kg/day; ip). Group II underwent the same protocol as group I without exercise in the last week during the CP therapy. Groups III and IV were assigned as positive and negative control groups, and were treated with CP and saline without exercise, respectively. Finally, the animals were sacrificed for the biochemical measurement and tissue histopathology investigation.

RESULTS

CP alone without exercise increased serum levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (Cr), and malondialdehyde (MDA); and kidney nitrite level, while treadmill exercise in group I significantly ameliorated these parameters (P < 0.05). Kidney and serum levels of MDA and nitrite did not alter significantly. Also, the severity of kidney tissue damage decreased significantly in groups I and II (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Aerobic exercise may reduce CP-induced nephrotoxicity with a favorable effect on renal function by increasing activation of antioxidant system.

Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] leaf sheath dye protects against cisplatin-induced hepatotoxicity and oxidative stress in rats

This study sought to determine the protective effect of dietary inclusion of sorghum leaf sheath dye on cisplatin-induced hepatotoxicity and oxidative stress in rats. Adult male rats were randomly divided into four groups with six animals in each group. Groups I and II were fed a basal diet, while groups III and IV were fed diets containing 0.5% and 1% sorghum leaf sheath dye, respectively, for 20 days before cisplatin administration. Hepatotoxicity was induced by a single dose of cisplatin (7 mg/kg body weight, i.p.), and the experiment was terminated at 3 days after cisplatin injection. The liver and plasma were studied for hepatotoxicity and antioxidant capacity. Cisplatin caused a significant (P<.05) alteration in plasma and liver enzymatic (catalase, glutathione-S-transferase [GST], and superoxide dismutase [SOD]) and nonenzymatic (glutathione [GSH] and vitamin C) antioxidant indices with a concomitant increase in the malondialdehyde (MDA) content; however, there was a significant (P<.05) restoration of the antioxidant status coupled with a significant (P<.05) decrease in the tissue MDA content, after consumption of diets containing sorghum leaf sheath dye. Furthermore, dietary inclusion of sorghum leaf sheath dye caused a marked reduction in the activities of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase after cisplatin administration. However, the ability of the dye to prevent significant cisplatin-induced alteration of both plasma and liver antioxidant indices suggests an antioxidant mechanism of action. Hence, this protective effect of Sorghum bicolor leaf sheath dye against cisplatin-induced hepatotoxicity in rats reflects its potential and beneficial role in the prevention of liver damage associated with cisplatin administration.

Aged garlic extract ameliorates the oxidative stress, histomorphological, and ultrastructural changes of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in adult male rats

AIM

Aged garlic extract (AGE) is a natural dietary substance having different antioxidant free-radical-scavenger compounds that ameliorates the toxicity of the oxidative stress. This study aimed to investigate the effect of AGE on cisplatin (CP)-induced nephrotoxicity in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-four, adult male Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into four groups namely control, AGE-treated (a single oral dose of 250 mg/kg/day for 21 days), CP-treated (a single intraperitoneal dose of 7.5 mg/kg on Day 16), and AGE + CP-treated (AGE at a dose of 250 mg/kg/once daily for 21 days and a single dose of CP of 7.5 mg/kg intraperitoneally on Day 16). Body weight and absolute and relative kidney weights of each rat were calculated. Serum creatinine, uric acid, and urea levels were determined. Level of malondialdehyde and reduced glutathione and activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase of renal tissues were measured. Renal specimens from each rat were prepared for both light and electron microscopic examinations.

RESULTS

Interstitial cell infiltration, hemorrhage, glomerular atrophy, necrosis, and tubular degeneration were observed after CP treatment. Superoxide dismutase and catalase activities and glutathione level were significantly decreased and malondialdehyde level was significantly increased in CP-treated rats compared with AGE + CP-treated animals. A remarkable improvement in the histopathological and ultrastructural changes induced by CP in renal tissues was observed in AGE + CP-treated rats.

CONCLUSION

AGE exhibited antioxidant effect that could ameliorate the nephrotoxic effects of CP.

Sensitization of cisplatin therapy by a naphthalimide based organoselenium compound through modulation of antioxidant enzymes and p53 mediated apoptosis

The widely used anti-cancer drug cisplatin imparts various toxic manifestations in the host, with nephrotoxicity being the most severe one. The trace element selenium shows antioxidant activity in both human and animals. The present study was designed to assess the chemoprotecting and chemoenhancing efficacy of a naphthalimide based organoselenium compound 2-(5-selenocyanato-pentyl)-benzo[de]isoquinoline 1,3-dione during cisplatin chemotherapy in mice bearing Ehrlich ascites carcinoma cells. Cisplatin (5 mg/kg b.w.) was administered intraperitoneally and the organoselenium compound (3 mg/kg b.w.) was given by oral gavage in concomitant and pretreatment schedule. The effects of the test compound was evaluated by assaying biochemical, hematological, histological, genotoxicity parameters and by investigating induction of apoptosis in tumor cells, and calculating tumor growth response in the host. The organoselenium compound significantly prevented cisplatin induced generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), reactive nitrogen species, and onset of lipid peroxidation in the kidney tissue of the experimental mice. In addition, the test compound was also substantially restored cisplatin induced depleted activities of the renal antioxidant enzymes and reduced glutathione level; prevented the serum blood urea nitrogen level, creatinine level, chromosomal aberration, DNA damage, histological alterations of kidney, and normalized the hematological profile of the tumor bearing mice. Furthermore, the organoselenium compound alone or during combination therapy induced apoptosis in tumor cells through mitochondria mediated and DNA damage mediated pathway and ultimately increased the life span of the tumor bearing host. Hence, the results showed that the test compound not only reduced the toxicity of cisplatin but also enhanced its anti-tumor efficacy.

Biochemical changes associated with ascorbic acid-cisplatin combination therapeutic efficacy and protective effect on cisplatin-induced toxicity in tumor-bearing mice

Cisplatin is one of the well-established anticancer drugs being used against a wide spectrum of cancers. However, full therapeutic efficacy of the drug is limited due to development of various toxicities in the host. This study examines the comparative therapeutic effectiveness and toxicities of cisplatin alone and in combination of dietary ascorbic acid (AA) in ascites Dalton's lymphoma-bearing mice. The findings show that the combination treatment of mice with ascorbic acid plus cisplatin has much better therapeutic efficacy against murine ascites Dalton's lymphoma (DL) in comparison to cisplatin alone and this may involve a decrease in reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase activity and increased lipid peroxidation (LPO) in Dalton's lymphoma tumor cells. At the same time, combination treatment indicates a protective role of ascorbic acid against cisplatin-induced tissue toxicities (side effects) in the hosts. Cisplatin-induced histopathological changes in liver, kidney and testes were decreased after combination treatment. The analysis of renal function test (RFT), liver function test (LFT) and sperm abnormalities also suggest an improvement in these parameters after combination treatment. Therefore, it may be concluded that the increased GSH level, catalase activity and decreased LPO in the tissues, i.e., liver, kidney and testes after combination treatment may be involved in its protective ability against cisplatin-induced tissue toxicities in the host.

Beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.) extract ameliorates gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity associated oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in rodent model

The present investigation was designed to investigate the protective effect of (Beta vulgaris L.) beat root ethanolic extract (BVEE) on gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity and to elucidate the potential mechanism. Serum specific kidney function parameters (urea, uric acid, total protein, creatinine, and histopathology of kidney tissue) were evaluated to access gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity. The oxidative/nitrosative stress (Lipid peroxidation, MDA, NP-SH, Catalase, and nitric oxide levels) was assessed. The inflammatory response (TNF-α, IL-6, MPO, NF-κB (p65), and NF-κB (p65) DNA binding) and apoptotic marker (Caspase-3, Bax, and Bcl-2) were also evaluated. BVEE (250 and 500 mg/kg) treatment along with gentamicin restored/increased the renal endogenous antioxidant status. Gentamicin-induced increased renal inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6), nuclear protein expression of NF-κB (p65), NF-κB-DNA binding activity, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, and nitric oxide level were significantly down regulated upon BVEE treatment. In addition, BVEE treatment significantly reduced the amount of cleaved caspase 3 and Bax, protein expression and increased the Bcl-2 protein expression. BVEE treatment also ameliorated the extent of histologic injury and reduced inflammatory infiltration in renal tubules. These findings suggest that BVEE treatment attenuates renal dysfunction and structural damage through the reduction of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in the kidney.

Aged garlic extract protects against oxidative stress and renal changes in cisplatin-treated adult male rats

Background

Cisplatin (CP) is one of the effective anticancer drugs, but it causes many side effects. Aged garlic extract (AGE) is a natural herbal product used in management of many diseases.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate effect of AGE on CP-induced nephrotoxicity in rats.

Material and methods

Four equal groups of adult male rats: control, AGE -treated (250 mg/kg, once oral dose/ 21days), CP-treated (7.5 mg/kg once i.p. on day 16th.), combined AGE and CP-treated were used. Body and kidneys weights of each rat were calculated. Serum levels of kidney biomarkers were assessed. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduce glutathione (GSH) levels, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities of renal tissues were measured as well. Renal samples from each rat were prepared for light and electron microscopic examinations.

Results

Hemorrhage, glomerular atrophy, inflammatory cell infiltration, tubular necrosis and degeneration were observed in CP-treated rats. Also, a significant (P<0.001) reduction in SOD & CAT activities, GSH levels accompanied with a significant increase in serum levels of kidney biomarkers and MDA were determined in CP-treated rats compared to control group. However, most of CP-induced histomorphological, ultrastructural and biochemical changes were improved in animals pretreated with AGE.

Conclusion

Such renoprotective effect of AGE may be attributed to its antioxidant activity.

Evaluation of efficacy of natural astaxanthin and vitamin E in prevention of colistin-induced nephrotoxicity in the rat model

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated the effect of astaxanthin (ASX) and vitamin E (vit E) on colistin methanesulfonate (CMS) induced-nephrotoxicity in rats.

METHODS

Animals were treated with sterile saline, 300000 or 450 000 IU/kg/day of CMS, CMS + ASX (20 mg/kg), CMS + vit E (100 mg/kg), or CMS + 1 ml/kg olive oil (OO) for 7 days. The plasma/urine creatinine (Cr) level, urine γ-glutamyl-transferase (GGT) level, and renal tissue activities in malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and reductase (GSH), as well as renal histology were performed.

RESULTS

CMS induced a tubular damage, increased the GGT and MDA levels, and decreased the activities of SOD, CAT, GPx and GSH. Co-treatment with ASX or vit E restored all biochemical parameters cited above and improved the histopathological damage.

CONCLUSION

Nephrotoxicity induced by CMS might be due to oxidative damage. The improvement by ASX or vit E seems to be related to their antioxidant properties.

Cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in mice: protective role of Leea asiatica leaves

Cisplatin is a popular anticancer drug, but its side effects like nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity due to oxidative stress limited its clinical use. In tis study, nephoprotective effect of fractions of Leea asiatica (Leeaceae) leaves was assessed against cisplatin induced toxicity in rats. Leaves of L. asiatica extracted with methanol, ethyl acetate, petroleum ether, and evaluated for in vitro and ex vivo antioxidant activity using several assay models. Methanol extract showed better antioxidant effects, and contain higher amount of phenolic (77.75 ± 0.87 mg GAE/g of dry material) and flavonoid compound (60.98 ± 0.58 mg QE/g of dry material) compared with other extracts. Hance methanol extract was selected for further investigation and fractionated with methanol, ethyl acetate, petroleum ether. Protective effect of methanol extract and its fractions was evaluated against cisplatin (20 mg/kg, i.p.) induced nephrotoxicity. Pretreatment with methanol extract (150 and 300 mg/kg), and its fractions especially methanol, ethyl acetate fraction (75 and 150 mg/kg) significantly reduced blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, uric acid levels, and decreased malondialdehyde level and increase total protein and albumin level (p < 0.05, 0.01). Ethyl acetate fraction produced highest nephroprotective, possibly by inhibiting lipid peroxidation process. Result suggested that ethyl acetate fraction possesses potent nephroprotective activity and can be used an adjunct therapy aiming to improve the effectiveness of several nephrotoxic drugs.

Effect of Tephrosia purpurea (L.) Pers. Leaves on Gentamicin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Rats

The aim of the study was to evaluate the nephroprotective and nephrocurative effects of Tephrosia purpurea (L.) Pers. leaves against gentamicin-induced acute renal injury in albino rats. The maximum free radical scavenging activity of the ethanolic extract was the basis for the selection of this extract for the in vivo study. Gentamicin (40 mg/kg, s.c.) was administered to induce toxicity in the toxic group and the ethanolic extract (200 mg/kg p.o.) was administered in all treated groups. Blood urea and serum creatinine levels were monitored to assess the effects. The antioxidant potential was also evaluated by the estimation of reduced glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA). Gentamicin intoxication caused significant increases in blood urea and serum creatinine levels as compared to the normal control. In the preventive regimen, the extract (200 mg/kg, p.o.) showed significant reductions in the elevated blood urea and serum creatinine. Histopathological changes were in accordance with the biochemical findings. Also in the curative regimen, the blood urea and serum creatinine levels revealed significant curative effects. In our in vivo antioxidant activity, the GSH level was significantly (P< 0.05) increased in the extract-treated groups, whereas MDA was reduced significantly (P< 0.05). Further thin layer chromatography (TLC) and high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) led us to ascertain the presence of rutin and quercetin in the extract. We were able to isolate and characterize an isolate from the ethanolic extract and characterize it on the basis of chromatographic, melting point, FTIR, NMR, and mass spectroscopic studies. The findings suggest that the ethanol extract of Tephrosia purpurea leaves possesses marked nephroprotective and curative activities without any toxicity. The proposed mechanisms for the claimed activity are antioxidant activity and the inhibition of an overproduction of NO and Cox-2 expression. These activities may be attributed to the presence of phenolics and flavonoidal compounds like rutin and quercetin. Thus, it can be said that Tephrosia purpurea could offer a promising role in the treatment of acute renal injury caused by nephrotoxins like gentamicin.