Effect of systemically administered low potassium dextran solution on oxidative stress in a rat model of lung ischemia.

Systemic administration of the low-potassium dextran solution on the peripheral oxidative stress was evaluated in an animal model of lung ischemia-reperfusion in rats. In one experiment, male Wistar rats were divided into two groups (n=5): one received intravenous saline, whereas in the other the animals were given intravenous low potassium dextran solution. In another experiment, male Wistar rats were divided into four groups (n=5): control, ischemia, saline and low potassium dextran. Except for the control animals, all groups were submitted to left hilar clamping for 30 min, followed by reperfusion for 30 min. Saline or low potassium dextran was administered intravenously immediately before clamp removal. In the first experiment there were no significant differences in lipid peroxidation. Total radical trapping potential measurements showed a significant increase in animals receiving low potassium dextran; in the second experiment, there was an increase in lipid peroxidation in both saline and ischemia groups compared to controls, and low potassium dextran. Low potassium dextran group showed an increase in total radical trapping potential measurements compared to all other groups. Ischemia-reperfusion injury mediated by reactive oxygen species was attenuated by the systemic use of low potassium dextran in this animal model of ischemia-reperfusion of the lung.