Cadmium-induced renal lipid peroxidation in rats and protection by selenium.

Cadmium has been recognized as one of the most toxic environmental and industrial pollutants. The kidney is a critical target organ following Cd exposure. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of cadmium-induced peroxidative damage to rat kidney. Treatment of rats with Cd resulted in a time- and dose-related accumulation of metal in kidney. Cd produced enhanced lipid peroxidation in plasma and kidney. These Cd-induced changes were accompanied by a significant rise in renal Fe and Cu, and a fall in tissue Zn and Se. Concurrent treatment with Se and Cd reduced the Cd-induced alterations in renal peroxidation and essential metal levels. Data suggest that lipid peroxidation is associated with Cd toxicity and that Se was found effective in attenuation of these renal effects.