Nitric oxide metabolite changes in gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity; the effects of antioxidant vitamins

Abstract

Introduction: Nitric oxide (NO) has some important roles in endothelial functioning and renal hemodynamics. Based on previous studies, NO function is different in both genders. Probably, antioxidant vitamins, as free radical scavengers, have some protective effects on renal injury. Objectives: This study aims to search the possible antioxidant effects on nitrite level in both sexes. Materials and Methods: The rats were divided into 8 groups each including both male and female ones; The categories include 1) gentamicin treated, 2) gentamicin and vitamin E- treated, 3) gentamicin and vitamin C- treated, 4) gentamicin plus vitamin E and C treated. Nine days after administering drugs, blood samples were collected from the heart. The level of urea, creatinine (Cr), and nitrite were measured in the animals serum. Also, nitrite level was measured in the homogenized kidney tissue. Results: Gentamicin, in male and female rats enhanced serum urea and Cr levels significantly at the level of P < 0.05. In the presence of the vitamins E and C individually urea and Cr levels decreased significantly too. After GM administration serum nitrite level was higher in female than male rats at the statistically significant level. Vitamin E increased serum nitrite level in male and female rats in comparison with GM group. Similarly, the vitamins enhanced kidney nitrite level which was significantly higher in male than female animals. Conclusion: This study shows that administrating vitamin E and C could individually have stronger effect on nitrite more prominently among male rats.