Melatonin: an antioxidant protects against cyclosporine-induced nephrotoxicity
Kumar, K.V.; Naidu, M.U.; Shifow, A.A.; Prayag, A.; Ratnakar, K.S.
Transplantation 67(7): 1065-1068
1999
ISSN/ISBN: 0041-1337 PMID: 10221495 Document Number: 510543
Background. Cyclosporine (CsA) causes a dose-related decrease in renal function in experimental animals. Different mediators for CsA nephrotoxicity have been suggested; oxygen free radicals are one of them. In experimental model of Wistar rats, the role of antioxidant melatonin (Mel), the main product of pineal secretion, was investigated in CsA nephrotoxicity. Methods. Male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: saline control, 50 mg/kg CsA, 500 mug/kg Mel, and CsA + Mel. At the end of 14th day of treatment, blood urea, creatinine, malondialdehyde, and creatinine and lithium clearance were estimated. Histopathological examination of kidney from all the groups was performed. Results. CsA caused marked elevation in blood urea, serum creatinine, and plasma malondialdehyde and a decrease in creatinine and lithium clearance. Mel significantly antagonized CsA-induced renal impairment. Microcalcification in corticomedullary junction seen with CsA was prevented by Mel. Conclusion. These results indicate that Mel, through its antioxidant properties, provides protection against CsA-induced nephrotoxicity.