Protective effects of melatonin and S-methylisothiourea on mechlorethamine induced nephrotoxicity.

Background: In this study, we aimed to investigate the protective effects of melatonin (MEL) and S-methylisothiourea (SMT) on mechlorethamine (MEC) induced nephrotoxicity.

Materials And Methods: A total of 36 male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups: control, MEC, MEC+MEL, and MEC+SMT. Three groups received single dose of MEC (3.5 mg/kg) via transdermal route. Control animals were given saline only via transdermal route. MEL (100 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally 30 min after the application of MEC, and after the same dose of MEL was given every 12 h for a total of six doses. SMT (50 mg/kg) was also given intraperitoneally 30 min after the application of MEC.

Results: The tissue TNF-α, IL-1β, and NOx levels were found significantly different for all groups (P < 0.001). MEC application resulted in severe histopathological changes. Melatonin showed meaningful protection against kidney damage. But protection by SMT was weaker. TNF-α and IL-1β levels increased significantly with MEC application, and MEL and SMT ameliorated these increases in kidney tissue. MEC also elevated NOx levels in kidney tissue.

Conclusions: Both inflammation and oxidative stress may have an important role in the MEC induced nephrotoxicity. MEL and SMT may also have anti-inflammatory properties, as well as anti-oxidant properties.