Originalni Naučni Radovi Effect of Acute Renal Failure on Kidney Amidinotransferase Activity

L-Arginine-:glycine amidinotransferase (EC 2.1.4.1) catalyzes the transfer of an amidino group from arginine to glycine to form guanidinoacetate, precursor in creatine synthesis. The kidneys are major site of the creatine synthesis and primary target organs for mercury toxicity. In evaluation of molecular mechanisms of mercury chloride intoxication relating to creatine metabolism we have investigated the enzyme activity in kidney tissue after mercury chloride administration. Acute renal failure was induced by i.p administration of mercury chloride in a dose of 3 mg/kg to male Spraque Dawley rats weighing about 200 g. The results of our study indicate an acute renal failure 24 hours after mercury chloride administration. Urea and creatinine levels in blood plasma were significantly elevated compared to control group (p<0.001). Amidinotransferase activity in kidney tissue was depressed, while, in plasma of intoxicated rats activity of enzyme was increased (p<0.001). The obtained results indicate that mercury chloride has strong nephrotoxic effect. Depressed amidinotransferase activity and decreased production of guanidinoacetate, initial product in creatine synthesis, may be implicated in neurotoxicity, cardiotoxicity and muscle damage in mercury intoxication, because creatine and its phosphorylated form creatine phosphate play an important role in the energy metabolism. Acta Medica Medianae 2004; 43(2):5-8.