Antioxidant Effect of Clorella vulgaris on Wistar Rat Kidney Induced by CCl4: A Histopathological Review

Abstract

Kidney is very susceptible to damage by toxicological compounds such as carbon tetrachloride (CCL). CCL produce free radicals, which cause lipid peroxidation and kidney damage and free radical release, which can be prevented by the administration of exogenous antioxidants, such as Chlorella vulgaris. The aim of study was to determine an effect of antioxidant of C. vulgaris on the histopathological features of Wistar rat kidney which is induced by CCL. Experimental study with completely randomized design. The variable was histopathology features of the kidneys. The doses of C. vulgaris extract were 3 mg, 4 mg, and 5 mg per 100 grams of rat body weight (BW). The administration of C. vulgaris extract was performed within 30 days, while the CCl4 induction (0.25 ml/100 g BW) was administered orally on the day 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, and 26. Parameters were histopathology features of renal damage, pro-portion of tubular cell damage, and Bowman’s space diameter. The results showed the administration of C. vulgaris extract was able to reduce the impact of damage caused by CCl4 (p<0.05). This was supported by histologic observations, which was showing a decrease of picnotic and vacuolated cells, normal brush border, and decrease of Bowman’s space. In conclusion, 5 mg/100 g BW of C. vulgaris extract can effectively protect the kidney from damage caused by CCL. The results of this study strongly support further research on immunostimulant content test C. vulgaris and determine the efficient dose for representative mammals animals also in humans.