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Protective effects of thymoquinone on vancomycin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats

Fatmagul Basarslan1, N Yilmaz, S Ates

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Mustafa Kemal University, Hatay, Turkey. fatmagulbasarslan@hotmail.com

Human & Experimental Toxicology
|February 10, 2012
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Thymoquinone (TQ) protects against vancomycin (VCM)-induced kidney damage by reducing oxidative stress. This study demonstrates TQ’s potential therapeutic role in preventing VCM nephrotoxicity.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Pharmacology
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • Oxidative stress is a key factor in vancomycin (VCM)-induced kidney toxicity.
  • Investigating protective agents against VCM nephrotoxicity is crucial for patient safety.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the protective effect of thymoquinone (TQ) against VCM-induced nephrotoxicity in a rat model.
  • To assess TQ's impact on oxidant/antioxidant parameters and kidney histology.

Main Methods:

  • Wistar rats were divided into control, VCM, VCM + TQ, and TQ groups.
  • VCM (200 mg/kg) and TQ (10 mg/kg) were administered intraperitoneally.
  • Serum BUN, creatinine, kidney MDA, SOD, and GSH-Px levels were analyzed, along with histopathology.

Main Results:

  • VCM administration significantly increased serum BUN, creatinine, and kidney MDA levels.
  • VCM treatment decreased kidney SOD and GSH-Px activities.
  • TQ administration significantly ameliorated these VCM-induced biochemical and histological changes.

Conclusions:

  • Thymoquinone (TQ) exhibits a protective effect against vancomycin (VCM)-induced nephrotoxicity.
  • The findings suggest that oxidative stress plays a significant role in VCM-induced kidney damage.

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