Protective Role of Zinc and Magnesium against Cadmium Nephrotoxicity in Male Wistar Rats.

Cd is a toxic metal that has a destructive impact on most organ systems. This work aims to determine Zn or Mg protective effects against Cd renal toxicity. In this study, rats were divided into six groups. The Cd group was treated with 1 mg Cd/kg, and the control group received 0.5 cm3 normal saline, intraperitoneally. The other four groups received one of the following dosages of 1 mg/kg Cd + 0.5 mg/kg Zn, 1 mg/kg Cd + 1.5 mg/kg Zn, 1 mg/kg Cd + 0.5 mg/kg Mg, or 1 mg/kg Cd + 1.5 mg/kg Mg through IP injection for 3 weeks. Kidney malondialdehyde (MDA) and serum sodium, potassium, urea, creatinine, and protein were measured. Light microscopic examination was used for histological studies. Cd reduced serum creatinine and protein, and increased urea, sodium, and potassium. Moreover, Cd exposure caused a significant enhancement in MDA levels as well as histological damage in kidneys. Zn or Mg treatment prevented and reversed toxic alterations induced by Cd. These results suggest that Zn and Mg may have protective effects against Cd renal toxicity.