Protective Role of Angiotensin Type 1 Receptor Blockade in 4/6 Nephrectomized Male and Female Rats

BACKGROUND: Chronic kidney disease associated with serious morbidity and mortality rate while it is affected by renin-angiotensin system. The effects of losartan as angiotensin II Type 1 receptor antagonist on renal functional in 4/6 nephrectomized rats was evaluated. METHODS: Twenty-six male and female Wistar rats underwent 4/6 nephrectomy, and the animals from each gender were randomly divided into two groups which treated with vehicle and losartan (10 mg/kg/day for 1 week). The parameters related to kidney function were measured. RESULTS: Creatinine (Cr) clearance and urine flow were improved in losartan-treated group significantly (P < 0.05). The serum level of blood urea nitrogen and Cr and kidney tissue damage score and sodium urinary output (U(Na)V) did not alter. However, losartan decreased percentage of sodium excretion (E(Na)%) in both genders insignificantly. CONCLUSIONS: Losartan may improve renal function in 4/6 nephrectomized male rats.