Renal function-improving action of Pentadecyl®, a multifunctional triglyceride from Aurantiochytrium limacinum, in a mouse model of chronic kidney disease.

Pentadecyl®, derived from Aurantiochytrium limacinum, is a triglyceride primarily composed of odd-numbered fatty acids such as pentadecanoic acid (C15). Pentadecyl® improves glucose tolerance in a mouse model of type II diabetes and promotes collagen production in human skin cells. However, its effects on kidney failure and chronic kidney disease (CKD) remain unexplored. The present study examined the effects of continuous Pentadecyl® administration on renal dysfunction in 5/6-nephrectomized mice (5/6Nx mice), a well-established model of CKD. Pentadecyl® (0.2 g/l) was administered orally via a suspension in drinking water for 8 weeks. Although survival analysis using the log-rank test revealed no significant differences, a significant improvement in body weight gain was observed in 5/6Nx mice treated with Pentadecyl® compared with that in untreated controls, despite similar food and water intake. Renal function was assessed by measuring blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine (CRE) levels, both of which were significantly elevated in 5/6Nx mice. Notably, Pentadecyl® administration attenuated the increase in BUN and CRE levels. Histopathological analysis through hematoxylin and eosin staining revealed characteristic changes in the kidneys of 5/6Nx mice, including glomerular hypertrophy and tubular dilation. There was no significant difference in the mean glomerular and tubular areas between Pentadecyl®-treated mice and 5/6Nx mice. Nonetheless, distribution analyses descriptively showed fewer enlarged tubular profiles. These findings suggest that Pentadecyl® exerts protective effects against renal dysfunction in CKD, potentially contributing to the prevention of uremic complications.