DNA damage in lymphocytes in experimental chronic renal failure-beneficialeffects of losartan

DNA damage was evaluated in isolated rat lymphocytes of sham operated rats (Sham), remnant kidney rats (Nx) and remnant kidney rats treated with losar tan (NxL). The study duration was three months. Nx rats were slightly hyper tensive while NxL rats revealed lower blood pressure levels. Mean values of DNA strand breaks were significantly higher in Nx if compared to Sham grou p, while losartan significantly prevented DNA damage expressed in % DNA in tail (Sham 15.92+/-1.14, Nx 54.49+/-1.74, NxL 23.29+/-2.61, p<0.001 vs. Sha m and NxL). Serum creatinine levels correlated positively with DNA breaks i f Sham and Nx groups were evaluated together (r=0.507, p<0.0004). In conclu sion, rats in advanced renal insufficiency undergo expressive DNA damage an d the administration of losartan effectively prevents it.