Nephroprotective effect of Astaxanthin against radiotherapy via TAS, TOS (biochemical), TNF-α, CASPASE-3 (immunohistochemical), SIRT-1, P53 (molecular) pathway in rats

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the effects of Astaxanthin (ATX), known for its antioxidant properties, on the kidneys of rats given radiation by biochemical measuring total oxidant level (TOS), total antioxidant level (TAS), immunohistochemically by Cas3 (Cysteine Aspartate Specific ProteASEs), TNF-α (Tumor necrosis factor-alpha), and molecularly by P53, SIRT (Sirtuin -1) pathways. Materials and Methods: The rats were divided into 4 groups (8 rats per group): control, radiotherapy (RT), RT+ATX, ATX. ATX was given to rats at 4 mg/kg for 7 days. We evaluated to effect of ATX in rats’ kidneys damaged by RT by comparing all groups with TAS, TOS, Cas 3, TNF-α, and SIRT-1, P53. Results: TAS levels were similar among the control, RT, RT+ATX, and ATX groups. TOS levels were significantly lower in the ATX group compared to RT, Control, and RT+ATX groups. Histopathologically marked hyperemia and in some kidneys, small hemorrhages were observed in the RT group. In addition, marked glomerular sclerosis was also detected in this group. With ATX, we observed significant improvement in the RT+ATX group. Immunohistochemically revealed increased Cas3 expressions, tubular cells in TNF-α expressions in the RT group. ATX treatment decreased Cas3 and TNF-α expression in the RT+ATX group. No Cas3 and TNF-α expression was observed in both control and ATX groups. There was no significant difference between the groups in SIRT-1, P53 values. Conclusion: Astaxanthin was observed that it is a carotenoid that may benefit the recovery of tubular and glomerular cells in kidney damage after radiation, and it has positive effects on oxidative stress.