Possible protective effect of naringin (a citrus bioflavonoid) against kidney injury induced by γ-irradiation and /or iron overload in male rats

Background: the supplementation of natural antioxidants such plant flavonoids may counteract the deleterious actions of gamma-irradiation and iron overload. Material and Methods: the protective effect of naringin (NIN) against kidney injury induced by γ-irradiation (IRR) (6.5 Gy) and/or iron dextran (ID) (50 mg/kg. b. w) has been studied in rats given 80 mg/kg b.w of NIN for 14 days before, and for 7 days after the exposure to γ-irradiation and/or iron dextran. Results: a significant elevation in serum urea, creatinine, glucose concentrations, and an increase in kidney lipid peroxidation (LPO), ROS and metallothionein (MTs) were observed in rats treated with γ-radiation and/or ID. In addition, a significant decrease in kidney GSH, SOD content, serum total protein, albumin and A/G ratio were also recorded. Tissue organ displayed some changes in trace element concentrations, which may be due to the radiation and/or ID ability to induce oxidative stress. Treatment with NIN revealed a significant modulation in the biochemical tested parameters and a profound improvement in the activity of antioxidant status; thereby appeared to be effective in minimizing the γ-irradiation and/or ID-induced increase in LPO and ROS as well as changes in essential trace elements in kidney tissue organs. The positive and negative correlation between trace elements and antioxidant markers illuminated antioxidant properties in addition to being an integral part of antioxidant enzymes. Conclusion: NIN has a role in protecting against oxidative stress and kidney injury produced by iron dextran and/or γ- irradiation.