Histological and biochemical study on the protective effect of losartan on rat renal cortex in experimentally induced liver failure

Abstract

Introduction Hepatic ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is an unavoidable problem during liver surgery that often results in acute liver failure, with its complications. Losartan may be beneficial in such conditions. Objectives This study was designed to investigate the histological and biochemical alterations that could occur in the renal cortex in case of liver cell failure and to assess the possible protective role of losartan. Materials and methods Thirty male albino rats were equally divided into three groups: group I (control) was equally subdivided into sham operated-untreated (Ca) and sham-operated, losartan-treated (Cb) subgroups. In group II (operated), rats were subjected to experimentally induced I/R. In group III (losartan treated), rats were subjected to a surgical procedure and treated with losartan (5 mg/kg body weight). At the end of the experiment, blood samples were obtained for the biochemical assay. The liver was processed for assessment of antioxidant markers and for light microscope examination. Both kidneys were processed for light and electron microscope examinations. The results were morphometrically and statistically analyzed. Results Light microscope examination of the operated group indicated shrunken glomeruli with wide Bowman’s space. Some tubules were distorted with cytoplasmic vacuoles and cellular casts, whereas others were dilated. The interstitium contained an acidophilic material, increased collagen fibers, cellular infiltration, and congested blood vessels. Ultrastructurally, podocytes had small electron-dense nuclei and fused foot processes. Some renal tubules had small heterochromatic nuclei, mitochondria with disrupted cristae, and small electron-dense bodies. The biochemical results of the same group showed the occurrence of oxidative stress and deterioration in liver and kidney functions. The treated group showed preserved structure of the renal corpuscles and tubules. Conclusion Liver I/R adversely affected the renal cortex histologically and biochemically. Losartan could be promising as an adjuvant therapy before hepatic surgery for rescuing the kidney from hepatic I/R injury.