Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the effect of indomethacin, an anti-inflammatory agent, on apoptosis and crystal deposition developing as a consequence of tubular cell injury induced by hyperoxaluria in an animal model. 

Materials and methods: Fifty New Zealand rabbits were divided into 3 groups. The first 2 groups were fed with hyperoxaluric diet and Group 3 was the control group with no supplementary procedure or treatment. While the animals in Group 1 were given only hyperoxaluric diet, Group 2 animals was applied indomethacin in addition to the hyperoxaluric diet. Animals were sacrificed at the early (7th day) and late (28th day) periods and renal tissue specimens were sent for the pathological analysis of crystal deposition and apoptosis. 

Results: The presence and degree of crystal deposition were significantly less in the specimens obtained from indomethacin-treated group during both the early and late periods (p<0.001). Similarly, despite the evident tubular apoptosis in group receiving only hyperoxaluric diet; tubular apoptotic changes were limited in animals treated with additional indomethacin (p<0.001).

Conclusion: As a result of cell injury developing due to hyperoxaluria, crystal deposition and apoptotic differences occur and the presence of ischemia increases both effects. At this point, in experimental model, indomethacin limits crystal deposition and apoptotic differences in the renal tissue.