[Drug induced nephropathy and enzymes of renal origin in the urine]

A report is given on the excretion of the renal enzymes alaninaminopeptidasis (AAP), N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidasis (NAG), beta-glucoronidasis (GBC) and alpha-galactosidasis (GAC) in urine after administration of Gentamycin, Cephalotin, Dextran, Carbencillin or combinations of these medicaments. Moreover the effective level of Gentamycin in the urine was measured after isolated administration of Gentamycin. A rhythmic excretion of ciliated-border and lysomal enzymes was observed. Gentamycin was also rhythmically excreted with the urine. It is assumed that this reflects cyclic changes in the cells of the renal tubule. Under long-term administration of Gentamycin or Dextran the excretion of enzymes already reduced during therapy. This was interpreted as an adaptation of the kidney to the medicament. On the other hand there are combinations of medicaments whose effect on the epithelium of the renal tubule is potentiated.