Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry Division, Faculty of Science, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
2
Urology and Nephrology Center, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
3
Urology and Nephrology Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Egypt.
Abstract
Background: Cadmium (Cd), a toxic heavy metal that impairs kidney function, causes nephrotoxicity. Garlic is recognized for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying effects. This study compared the protective and therapeutic roles of garlic against Cd-induced nephrotoxicity.
Methods: Thirty-two male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four equal groups: control, Cd, garlic treatment, and garlic protection. The Cd group received CdCl₂ (5 mg/kg BW, thrice weekly). The garlic treatment group received Cd plus 7% ground garlic diet. The garlic protection group was pretreated with garlic for 2 weeks before and during Cd exposure. The study lasted 8 weeks. Kidney and serum samples were analyzed for biochemical and molecular parameters.
Results: Cadmium exposure caused renal Cd accumulation, elevated creatinine and BUN levels, increased oxidative stress markers (8-OHdG, isoprostanes, MDA), and upregulated expression of TNF-α, NF-κB, and Bax, along with reduced activity of GSH, SOD, and CAT and decreased BCL-2 expression. Garlic supplementation normalized creatinine, BUN, oxidative stress levels, and expression of TNF-α, NF-κB, Bax, and BCL-2, while enhancing antioxidant defenses (GSH, SOD, and CAT), with more pronounced effects observed in the prophylactic group.
Conclusion: Garlic demonstrates both protective and therapeutic effects against Cd-induced nephrotoxicity in rats, with the protective role appearing more effective.
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