Clopidogrel protects against gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity through targeting oxidative stress, apoptosis, and

Asmaa A Akila1, Rania A Gad2, Mohamed Gamal El-Din Ewees3

  • 1Molecular Physiology Division, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, 62511, Egypt.

Insights

Clopidogrel (Clop) protects against gentamicin (Genta)-induced kidney damage by reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. This study highlights Clop

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Pharmacology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Gentamicin (Genta) causes nephrotoxicity, a significant clinical issue.
  • Clopidogrel (Clop), an antiplatelet agent, may possess protective properties against drug-induced kidney damage.
  • The role of the coagulation cascade in Genta-induced nephrotoxicity requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the protective effects of Clopidogrel against Gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in a rat model.
  • To elucidate the mechanisms underlying Clopidogrel's renoprotective effects, focusing on oxidative stress, apoptosis, and coagulation.
  • To assess the impact of Clopidogrel on renal function, histopathology, and molecular markers.

Main Methods:

  • Adult male albino rats were divided into four groups: control, Genta-only, and two Genta groups pre-treated with different doses of Clopidogrel.
  • Genta was administered intraperitoneally, while Clopidogrel was given orally prior to and during Genta exposure.
  • Renal function, oxidative stress markers, pro-inflammatory cytokines, apoptotic markers, coagulation profile, and fibrin expression were analyzed in renal tissues.

Main Results:

  • Clopidogrel treatment significantly improved kidney function and renal histopathology in Genta-treated rats.
  • Clopidogrel administration markedly reduced levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress indicators, and pro-apoptotic proteins.
  • The drug also decreased fibrin protein expression and enhanced the expression of anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic proteins in renal tissues.

Conclusions:

  • Gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity is linked to oxidative stress, apoptosis, and activation of the coagulation system.
  • Clopidogrel exhibits significant renoprotective effects against Genta-induced kidney damage.
  • These protective effects are attributed to Clopidogrel's combined anticoagulant, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties, positioning it as a potential therapeutic agent.

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