Abstract
BACKGROUND: Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of the most common causes of end-stage renal failure. The pathogenesis of progressive renal damage is multifactorial and the mechanism by which hyperglycemia causes microangiopathy in diabetic glomeruli is still poorly understood. Because the renin angiotensin system has been reported to be an important contributory factor in the pathophysiology of DN, exogenous administration of angiotensin II receptor antagonist may be beneficial in counteracting some biochemical or functional changes of DN. AIMS: The present study was therefore undertaken to evaluate the preventive role of irbesartan in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced DN in rats. METHODS AND MATERIAL: STZ-induced DN in rats was assessed biochemically by measuring urine volume, protein and electrolytes as well as blood urea and creatinine clearance. RESULTS: Marked hyperglycemia, polyuria, proteinuria and uremia along with a reduction in urine electrolytes and creatinine clearance were observed in STZ diabetic rats. Pre-treatment with irbesartan (20 mg/kg, p.o. 5 days prior to STZ and continued for 16 weeks) also significantly altered these parameters towards normal, except blood glucose. CONCLUSION: Pre-treatment with insulin reversed the parameters of DN. The data suggest that irbesartan prevents the development of STZ-induced DN in rats.