Protective Effects of Verapamil Against Hexachlorobutadiene Nephrotoxicity in Rat

Background: Hexachlorobutadiene (HCBD), a potent nephrotoxin can cause degeneration and necrosis in renal tubular epithelial cells in rodents. Its toxicity is due to conjugation with glutathione to form the related cysteine conjugate. This metabolite is then taken up by the kidney and cleared through renal tubular epithelial cells as a reactive thiol derivative by the enzyme β-lyase. Objective: To evaluate the protective effect of verapamil against HCBC nephrotoxicity. Method: Five groups of Winstar Albino rats were treated as follows: Group 1(corn oil), Group 2 HCBD (50mg/kg), Groups 3 and 4 verapamil (50 and 100µg/kg) one hour before HCBD (50mg/kg) and Group 5 verapamil (100µg/kg) one hour before HCBD (100mg/kg). All animals were killed after 24 hours. Results: Histopathologic examinations showed substantial necrosis in straight portion of the proximal tubules. In verapamil-treated groups the kidney appeared normal. The concentration of urea and creatinine, as a marker of kidney damage, was significantly higher in HCBD-treated, as compared with the control group. Conclusion: Verapamil, a calcium channel blocker, can protect the kidney against toxic effect of HCBD in rats.