Some biochemical changes in the rat during repeated chloroquine administration

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Pharmacology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Chloroquine phosphate is used to treat malaria and autoimmune diseases.
• Potential renal side effects of chloroquine require further investigation.
• Understanding drug-induced nephrotoxicity is crucial for patient safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of chronic chloroquine phosphate administration on renal function in male rats.
• To assess changes in urinary protein and enzyme excretion.
• To explore the potential mechanisms of chloroquine-induced nephropathy.

Main Methods:

• Male rats were administered chloroquine phosphate chronically.
• Urinary volume and total protein levels were measured.
• Activities of alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) in urine were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Chronic chloroquine administration led to increased urinary volume and protein excretion.
• Marked elevation in alkaline phosphatase activity was observed.
• Moderate increases in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) activities were noted.

Conclusions:

• Chronic chloroquine phosphate administration may impair renal reabsorptive functions in rats.
• Altered enzyme activities suggest interference with membrane-bound enzymes and organelle membrane permeability.
• These findings highlight potential nephrotoxic effects of chloroquine requiring careful clinical monitoring.