Researchers have new information on the effect of alpha-lipoic acid (ALA). This is a powerful antioxidant which, they believe can help prevent oxidative kidney damage induced by iron.

Using 21 male Wistar rats, scientists injected iron sucrose (IS) into 14 while injecting the ALA into 7 of the IS rats. Another 7 rats were used as a control.

The injections were done weekly for four weeks. On the twenty-ninth day, blood and kidneys were collected for analysis, and serum creatinine was analyzed. Additionally, researchers looked at tubular injury and iron deposits histopathologically.

They analyzed, iron, malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione (GSH) levels and mRNA expressions of the subunits of NADPH oxidase NADPH is known as NOX4 and p22phox. They said tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1), and also p38 MAPK signaling in the kidneys, were analyzed using biochemical processes.

When they looked at the rats in the IS group, they found serum creatinine and the iron level, tubular dilation, and loss of brush border in the kidneys was much higher than the control group. In ALA mice, the levels were lower. ALA significantly reduced the amount of MDA and increased SOD activity in the kidney during the IS injections.

Researchers found ALA could be used to prevent the activating p38 MAPK during IS injection. They concluded ALA could be a useful strategy to reduce the damage to kidneys in IS-induced oxidative kidney injury.

How Safe Are Silver Dental Fillings for Those With Kidney Issues

Alpha-Blockers May Harm Your Kidneys, Study Shows

For more informational content, be sure to check out our YouTube Channel