Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 3, 2026

An Effective Mouse Model of Unilateral Renal Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury
Published on: July 15, 2021
Protective Effects of Methane-Rich Saline on Renal Ischemic-Reperfusion Injury in a Mouse Model
Yan Meng1, Zhengyu Jiang1, Na Li1
1Faculty of Anesthesiology, Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China (mainland).
Abstract:
BACKGROUND Renal ischemic-reperfusion (RIR) injury remains a major cause of acute kidney injury, with increased in-hospital mortality and risks for chronic kidney disease. Previous studies have proposed that oxidative stress, inflammation, and renal apoptosis are the most common causes of injury, whereas recent research proved that methane, the simplest alkane generated by an enteric microorganism or accompanying the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), can alleviate inflammation and oxidative stress and reduce apoptosis in different organs. MATERIAL AND METHODS In the present study, we analyzed the possible effects of methane-rich saline in RIR injury in a mouse model and analyzed its possible protective effects on inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. RESULTS The results showed that treatment with methane significantly improved blood creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels and improved renal histology in RIR injury. Further experimentation proved that this protective effect was primarily manifested in decreased oxidative stress, less apoptosis, and reduced inflammation in renal tissues, as well as improved general responses. CONCLUSIONS Our present study proved the protective effects of methane in RIR injury and, together with previous research, confirmed the multi-organ protective effects. This may help to translate methane application and develop its use in organ ischemic-reperfusion injury.
Insights
Methane treatment significantly improved kidney function and histology in a mouse model of renal ischemic-reperfusion (RIR) injury. This study demonstrates methane
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Science
- Renal Physiology
- Oxidative Stress Research
Background:
- Renal ischemic-reperfusion (RIR) injury is a primary cause of acute kidney injury, linked to oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis.
- Methane, a simple alkane, has shown potential in mitigating inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in various organs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the protective effects of methane-rich saline against RIR injury in a mouse model.
- To analyze methane's impact on inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in renal tissues.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a mouse model of RIR injury.
- Administered methane-rich saline to assess its therapeutic potential.
- Evaluated renal function via blood creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels.
- Analyzed renal histology and molecular markers of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis.
Main Results:
- Methane treatment significantly improved creatinine and BUN levels in RIR-injured mice.
- Histological analysis revealed improved renal tissue integrity following methane administration.
- Methane administration led to reduced oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation in renal tissues.
Conclusions:
- Methane exhibits significant protective effects against RIR injury in mice.
- Findings support methane's potential as a therapeutic agent for organ ischemic-reperfusion injuries.
- This study reinforces methane's multi-organ protective capabilities, paving the way for clinical applications.
Related Concept Videos
Protection of Alcohols
Protection
It defines a protecting group as the masking agent to make the more reactive species inert to a given set of conditions. This concept is depicted via the illustration of liquid flow through different outlets in an assembly of pipes. The analogy helps to understand the role...
Zones of Protection
Protective zones are defined by closed dashed lines, containing one or more components. A key characteristic of these zones is the strategic placement of...
Radial System Protection
In a radial system with a fault downstream of the third breaker, ideally, only the third breaker will open, isolating the fault and interrupting the load connected beyond it. The second breaker has a longer delay setting,...
Protecting Self-Esteem
Factors Affecting Renal Clearance: Renal Impairment
One condition associated with renal failure is uremia. Uremia is characterized by impaired glomerular filtration and fluid accumulation in the body. This condition hinders the renal clearance of drugs, resulting in drug accumulation and potential...
Renal Corpuscle
Glomerulus: Structure and Function
The glomerulus is a tiny, intricate network of capillaries located at the beginning of the nephron. It's enveloped by the Bowman's capsule and receives its blood supply from an afferent arteriole, which divides into numerous...

