Morphological and morphometric study of protective effect of green tea in gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats

One of the most popular beverages worldwide, green tea, was investigated for its potential protective effect in a rat model of gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity by monitoring functional and morphological changes in kidneys. The study was conducted on four groups of rats: control group (C), treated with only gentamicin (GM), treated with only green tea (GT) and treated with both gentamicin and green tea (GT+GM). Kidney function, oxidant and antioxidant parameters of renal tissue, as well as histopathological studies were assessed. Morphometric analysis was used to quantify these histopathological changes. Gentamicin caused significant elevations in serum creatinine and urea and oxidative stress parameter (AOPP), while antioxidative enzyme catalase was significantly decreased. Histological sections of kidneys in GM group revealed necrosis of proximal tubules, vacuolation of cytoplasm and massive mononuclear inflammatory infiltrates in interstitium. Coadministration of green tea with gentamicin histologically showed renoprotective effect. Histological results were confirmed and quantified by morphometric analysis. Also in this group we measured ameliorated parameters of renal functions and antioxidative defense. Regenerative potential of green tea after renal injury induced by gentamicin could be explained through the decrease of oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation. Green tea is a natural antioxidant, with many health promoting effects, widely available and in accordance to that affordable. Because of the established habits, people largely consume it as a beverage. It could be beneficial in the reduction of oxidative stress and changes caused by it primarily in renal tubules and interstitium.