Cisplatin nephrotoxicity in rats: defect in papillary hypertonicity

We examined the effects of cisplatin (5 mg/kg BW) on renal function in rats. Three days after administration of cisplatin whole kidney clearance of inulin fell and 24-h urine volume increased. Maximal urine osmolality and papillary solute content were reduced. Superficial nephron glomerular filtration rate measured along the proximal tubule, where no leak of inulin could be demonstrated, was reduced in cisplatin-treated animals. Differences between superficial nephron glomerular filtration rate determined in proximal and distal tubules were greater in cisplatin-treated rats than in control rats. Neither a change in fluid or sodium movement along superficial nephrons nor a reduced early distal tubule transepithelial sodium gradient explain the polyuria. Urea was reabsorbed from, not added to, the loop fluid in cisplatin-treated animals. Morphologic changes were evident in the S3 segment of the proximal tubule in cisplatin-treated animals but the glomeruli were normal. Polyuria occurred despite diminished glomerular filtration rate in cisplatin nephrotoxicity. The diminished concentration of salt and urea in the papilla as a result of abnormal function of the collecting duct or pars recta portion of the proximal tubule contributed to the defect in concentrating ability.