Abstract

Aim: This study investigated the effects of oral kolaviron administration on proteinuria in Wistar rats.
Methods: The study used twenty (20) Wistar rats that were divided into 4 groups of 5 rats each. Group 1 received 2 ml/kg of propylene glycol, orally, for 30 consecutive days before they were sacrificed. Groups 2, 3 and 4 received graded doses of kolaviron at 100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg (p.o.) respectively, for 30 consecutive days before they were also sacrificed.
Results: Graded doses of kolaviron (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg p.o.) significantly lowered urine total protein and urine total protein–creatinine ratio with > 80 % reduction when compared with the control. However, creatinine clearance was significantly increased while the fractional excretions of Na+ and urea were significantly lowered. While plasma electrolytes were normal, the urinary excretion of Na+, K+ and Cl- where significantly increased in the kolaviron-treated groups. Urine output of the kolaviron-treated rats was significantly higher than that of the control without increase in both plasma and urine glucose level. Renal function biomarkers (creatinine and urea) of the rats indicated a kolaviron-enhanced improvement of renal function with an associated increase in their urine excretion. Micrographic evidence showed no apparent distortion of the kidney histoarchitecture following kolaviron administration to the rats.
Conclusion: It was concluded that kolaviron mitigated proteinuria and potentiated loop diuresis in Wistar rats, a pharmacological benefit that can be utilized for the adjuvant management or treatment of proteinuria-associated nephropathies.

Key words: Kolaviron; loop diuresis; proteinuria; Wistar rats