Grape seed proanthocyanidin extract reduces renal ischemia/reperfusion injuries in rats

Activation of reactive oxygen species and inflammation are implicated in renal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injuries. This study investigated whether grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) protects against renal I/R injury by its effect on reactive oxygen species and the inflammation pathway. Wistar rats were administered GSPE before renal ischemia, followed by reperfusion for 24 hours. Plasma concentrations of urea, creatinine and cystatin C were measured for renal dysfunction. Serum and tissue superoxide dismutase activity and glutathione peroxidase and malondialdehyde levels were measured. Renal sections were analyzed for histological grading of renal injury, and nuclear factor-ĸB activity was determined. GSPE significantly reduced increases in urea, creatinine and cystatin C; increased kidney superoxide dismutase activity and glutathione peroxidase levels and reduced malondialdehyde levels. GSPE reduced histological renal damage and nuclear factor-ĸB activity. These results suggest that GSPE reduces renal dysfunction and injury caused by renal I/R.