Mode of cytotoxic action of nephrotoxic agents: oxidative stress and glutathione-dependent enzyme.

Objective: To investigate the cytotoxic action of nephrotoxic agents using an in vitro renal cell model, focusing on the cellular oxidative status and a specific glutathione (GSH)-dependent enzyme, glyoxalase I (Gly-I).

Materials And Methods: Renal proximal tubular LLC-PK(1) cells were exposed to mercuric chloride, glycerol, cisplatin, gentamicin and cyclosporin A, and cell number/viability were determined. Oxidative stress was assessed by lipid peroxidation (LPO) assay, and Gly-I activity was measured by enzymatic method on a spectrophotometer.

Possible immunotherapeutic potentiation with D-fraction in prostate cancer cells.

Background: Prostate cancer remains the most common malignancy among elderly men and the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Although several conventional therapies are currently available, they have a low efficacy and the more effective treatment modalities need to be established. Interferons (IFNs) are one of such options known as immunotherapy and demonstrated their antitumor effects on certain cancer types.