Evaluation of Chemoprotective Role of N-Acetylcysteine and Vitamin E on Gentamicin- Induced Nephrotoxicity

Gentamicin (GM) is widely used for treatment of severe gram negative infections; however its clinical use is partially limited due to its nephrotoxicity. This study aimed to evaluate the protective role of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and vitamin E on gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity. Forty adult male albino rats were divided into equal five groups, Group1: normal control administered standard diet for four weeks. Group2: administered standard diet for four weeks and injected with gentamicin (80 mg/kg body wt I.P) for the last 6 days. Group 3, 4 and 5: were administered standard diet, treated with (40 mg/kg body wt/day P.O.) of either N-acetylcystein or vitamin E or combination of them, respectively for four weeks and injected with gentamicin for the last 6 days. Gentamicin caused elevation of blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, urinary protein, gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) and lactate dehydrogenase activities. Also renal malondialdehyde and nitric oxide were significantly increased. Serum (total protein and albumin) as well as renal reduced glutathione, GGT and alkaline phosphatase activities were decreased. Histopathological examination of kidneys demonstrated prominent damage in gentamicin treated rats. Treatment with NAC and/or vitamin E reduced lipid peroxidation, protected kidney from tubular damage and decrease nephrotoxicity. Vitamin E in combination with NAC was the most effective.