Effects of tocilizumab on renal function and oxidative stress in an experimental model of acute ischemic kidney injury.

INTRODUCTION

Acute kidney injury (AKI) results from renal damage that triggers oxidative stress, inducing apoptosis, structural abnormalities in cells and their organelles, and even mitochondrial DNA instability. Tocilizumab is a monoclonal antibody inhibitor of interleukin-6, initially used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and later tested for COVID-19 treatment, which may have a protective effect on AKI.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of tocilizumab on renal function and oxidative profile in rats with ischemic AKI.

METHODS

This is an experimental study using a quantitative approach with animals. The animals were randomized into four groups: SHAM (control); TCZ (tocilizumab); I/R (ischemia/renal reperfusion, clamping of both renal pedicles for 30 minutes); and TCZ + I/R. Tests were performed to assess renal function (inulin clearance and plasma creatinine), renal oxidation (urinary peroxides, malondialdehyde-derived oxidative substances), and endogenous antioxidant agents (thiols).

RESULTS

Regarding renal function, the treated group showed improvement in inulin clearance (IR 0.24 ± 0.3 vs TCZ + IR 0.65 ± 0.05; p < 0.05) and plasma creatinine levels (IR 2.3 ± 0.6 vs TCZ + IR 0.8 ± 0.3; p < 0.05). Analysis of the oxidative profile revealed a reduction in peroxides, confirming an attenuation of the redox mechanism (IR 15.8 ± 2.8 vs. TCZ + IR 3.7 ± 1.3; p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Tocilizumab demonstrated renoprotective effects, improving renal function and reducing oxidative stress.