Protective effect of beta-glucan on contrast induced-nephropathy and a comparison of beta-glucan with nebivolol and N-acetylcysteine in rats

Abstract

It has been shown that beta-glucan (BG), which has antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects, attenuats renal ischemia-reperfusion injury. We aimed to investigate whether BG might have a preventive role against the development of contrast-induced nephropathy and to compare its effect with nebivolol (Nb) and N-acetylcysteine (NAC). Thirty-six Wistar albino female rats were randomly divided into six groups (n=6 each): control, contrast media (CM), BG, BG+CM, Nb+CM, and NAC+CM. With the exception of control and CM groups, the others were given drugs orally once a day for 5days. Kidney function parameters, inflammatory parameters, and serum and renal tissue oxidative stress markers were measured. Increases of serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels were significantly higher (p<0.05) in the CM group only. Absolute changes of serum creatinine levels in BG, BG+CM and Nb+CM groups were significantly lower than those in the CM group (p<0.05). Serum levels of advanced oxidation protein products and malondialdehyde were significantly less (p<0.05) in the BG group compared to the CM group. Histopathological lesions in the CM group were more advanced (p<0.05). No significant differences between the BG+CM, Nb+CM and NAC+CM groups were found with regard to histopathological findings. This study suggests that BG protects or ameliorates against contrast-induced nephropathy. Its beneficial effects may be similar to or greater than those of Nb or NAC.