Effects of oxidative stress on liver, brain and spinal cord of rats using L-NAME and treated with hydroxyurea. A model of sickle cell complication¹

Abstract

Purpose:

To analyze the serum levels of nitric oxide and correlate them with the levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) in liver, brain and spinal cord of animals using L-NAME and treated with hydroxyurea.

Methods:

Eighteen male albino Wistar rats were divided into three groups. N^G-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) was intraperitoneally administered to induce oxidative stress. TBARS and plasma nitric oxide levels were analyzed in all groups. Histopathology of the liver and vascular tissue was performed.

Results:

Statistically significant differences were seen in liver, brain and spinal cord TBARS levels.

Conclusions:

Following the use of L-NAME, hepatic tissue increased the number of Kupffer cells as oxidative stress and inflammatory response increased. The use of L-NAME caused an increase in lipid peroxidation products and, consequently, in oxidative stress in animals. Hydroxyurea doses of 35 mg / kg / day reduced TBARS values in liver, brain and spinal cord.

Key words:
Anemia; Sickle Cell; Oxidative Stress; Hydroxyurea; NG-Nitroarginine Methyl Ester; Rats