The protective effects of quercetin in cisplatin-induced nephrotoxic rats were investigated. Renal functions using clearance techniques, histopathological analysis, and the oxidative status were determined on days 3, 7, and 14 after a cisplatin (7.5 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) injection. In cisplatin-treated rats, the survival rate decreased to 59% and 50% on days 7 and 14, respectively. Survived rats had a significant reduction in glomerular filtration rate and an increase in urinary Na+ and K+ excretion. Histopathological scoring revealed both glomerular and severe tubular damage along with a significant increase in renal malondialdehyde (MDA) and a reduction in catalase activity. Oral administration of quercetin (50 mg/kg, twice at 24 h and 10 min before cisplatin injection) not only increased the survival rate to 75% but also suppressed the elevation of renal MDA and improved both glomerular and tubular function. The responsible mechanism of the renal protection by quercetin may be via its antioxidant properties.
