TRATTAMENTO DELLA NEFROTOSSICITA DA FARMACI IMMUNOSOPPRESSORI CON INSULIN-LIKE GROWTH FACTOR-I

BACKGROUND: Delayed graft function is a common and severe complication after cadaveric kidney transplantation. Besides a more complicated postoperative course, DGF can worsen the overall graft survival. In particular, DGF enhances the nephrotoxicity of mainstream immunosuppressants cyclosporine and FK506. This study evaluates a new therapeutical approach to the treatment of DGF related nephrotoxicity, based on the administration of IGF-I. METHODS: Sixty inbred Lewis rats underwent a bilateral clamping of the renal pedicles (20') as standard damage. The animals were stratified in six groups, according to the postoperative treatment. Group 1 served as control and received only the standard ischemic injury. Cyclosporine and FK506 were added in groups 3 and 5. Groups 2, 4 and 6 had the same treatment of groups 1, 3, 5 respectively, plus the administration of IGF-I. Blood samples were drawn daily to evaluate creatinine and BUN for 7 days. RESULTS: The rats treated with IGF-I had significantly better values compared to the respective controls (2-way ANOVA, p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, IGF-I improves the nephrotoxicity of mainstream immunosuppressants in this model. Its use is potentially beneficial for transplantation.