Abstract
Variations in the various trace metals and their reciprocation were investigated in adriamycin-induced nephrotic rats. A dose equivalent to 3 mg/kg BW of adriamycin was administered intraperitoneally to rats, which were then sacrificed at 1, 2, 4, 6 weeks after dosage. A quantitative analysis of copper, manganese, iron and zinc in each organ, blood, feces and urea, in addition to biochemical and histo-pathological observation.
(1) The amount of urea nitrogen, serum creatinine and proteinuria showed a significant increase 4 weeks after dosage. Microscopical examination showed minimal glomeruli alterations and focal glomerular sclerosis.
(2) A high copper content was found in the kidneys and blood 1 week after dosage, and an increase in the urea was also recognized.
(3) The amount of manganese significantly increased in the liver, kidneys, spleen and blood 4 weeks after dosage. The tendency was the same in feces and urea.
(4) The amount of iron in the urea increased 1 week after dosage, and the amount in each organ tended to decrease.
(5) No significant variation in zinc content could be found in the organs, blood, feces or urea.
