Evaluation of the effects of atorvastatin on renal ischemia-reperfusion in diabetic rats

Statins are among extensively used medications in diabetic patients. This study was designed to assess the outcome of atorvastatin pretreatment in renal ischemia- reperfusion in diabetic rats.

Wistar male rats (180-230 gr) were divided into 5 groups: normal control (CN), atorvastatin control (5 mg/kg) (CA), diabetic control (CD), diabetic group receiving atorvastatin 0.5 mg/kg (DA/a), diabetic group receiving atorvastatin 5 mg/kg (DA/b). Affter induction of type II diabetes by injection of nicotinamide and streptozotocin, the rats received daily atorvastatin or normal saline gavage for 2 months. Then, under anesthesia ischemia was induced for 45 min followed by reperfusion for 24 h. Blood and urine samples were collected for the measurement of lipid profile and renal function indices. Statistical analysis was performed by one-way analysis of variance and Tukey post-hoc test.

Total cholesterol and LDL were reduced in the group receiving atorvastatin (5 mg/kg) (P<0.05). Serum urea levels were higher in the diabetic groups especially in DA/b group compared to those in the non diabetic groups (P<0.001). Serum creatinine levels were also higher in DA/b group than those in the control groups (P<0.05 and P<0.001). 

Atorvastatin pretreatment slightly worsened ischemia-reperfusion injury. It seems that low dosage and short duration of the treatment in this study had not resulted in serious effects on the kidneys.