Protective effect of pentoxifylline on oxidative renal cell injury associated with renal crystal formation in a hyperoxaluric rat model

The aim of the study is to investigate the effects of pentoxifylline (PTX) on the renal tubular cell injury and stone formation in a hyperoxaluric rat model induced by ethylene glycol and its possible underlying mechanisms. The study was performed with 30 male Wistar rats and randomized into three groups of teen. The sham-control (group 1) received only drinking water orally. The EG/untreated (group 2) received drinking water containing 0.75% EG for 4 weeks orally. The EG/PTX treated (group 3) received drinking water containing 0.75% EG for 4 weeks orally and PTX. Urine and blood were collected to determine some parameters. The kidneys were also removed for histological examination. Serum and urinary parameters were significantly improved in the EG/PTX treated. In the EG/PTX-treated group, the MDA, TOS and MPO activity reduced and the TAS, SOD, CAT and GSH-Px activities were increased markedly compared with the group 2. In urine of the group 2 rats, a large number of CaOx crystals were displayed and most tubules that contained crystals were dilated and showed degeneration, necrosis, and desquamation of the lining epithelium. Only few CaOx crystals were r in EG/PTX-treated animal’s urine. Mild tissue damage was observed in PTX-treated rats. iNOS expression was significantly elevated in the group 2. In contrast, in the EG/PTX-treated group, eNOS expression in renal tubular epithelial cells was increased. Current study indicates that PTX may partially reduce renal tubular injury resulting from hyperoxaluria-induced oxidative and nitrosative stress.