The effect of chromate on citrinin-induced renal dysfunction in the rat

Previous studies in this laboratory revealed an effect of chromate to potentiate the nephrotoxic effects of mercuric ion. Citrinin, an organic anion, is a known nephrotoxin. The present study was undertaken to assess the possible interaction of chromate and citrinin on renal function. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were housed in metabolism cages and injected with citrinin (35 mg/kg), chromate (10 mg/kg) or the combination. The combination of nephrotoxicants caused an increased excretion of urine greater than the sum of the individual responses. A similar response was observed with urinary glucose concentrations and glucose excretion without changes in blood glucose levels. These data indicate that chromate can potentiate the nephrotoxic action of citrinin in the rat.