Renal Histopathology and Functional Disorders Following Chronic Exposure to Nicotine and Sodium Nitrite in Male White Rats

The kidneys are a metabolic organ, they are exposed to toxins that are excreted in urine, which can lead to tis-sue damage. The kidneys are subjected to harmful elements, either directly from the environment or through food additives and preservatives, which disrupt kidney functions as a result of tissue destruction. Two of the most hazardous chemicals, nicotine and sodium nitrite, have been evaluated in the current investigation. Objec-tives: The current study aims to assess the histological and biochemical changes in the kidneys of male rats re-sulting from simultaneous treatment with nicotine and sodium nitrite. Methods: Twenty-four male Fischer rats (Male F-344/NHsd rats) were used in four groups. The control group received 0.5mg/Kg daily subcutaneous in-jections of saline solution for 45 days. The second group received an injection of 0.8 mg/kg of nicotine daily. The third group received an injection of 0.5 mg/kg of sodium nitrite daily. The fourth group received daily injec-tions of nicotine and sodium nitrite at doses of 0.8 mg/kg and 0.5 mg/kg, respectively, for 45days. Blood sam-ples were taken to measure indicators of kidney function, such as creatinine, urea, uric acid, and electrolytes. Kidney samples were collected from all animals for histological examinations. Results: The levels of urea, creat-inine, uric acid, sodium, potassium, and chloride were significantly elevated at a confidence level of (P< 0.001) compared to the control group. The rats treated with either nicotine or sodium nitrite exhibited various tissue changes, including necrosis, congestion, degeneration, hypertrophy of renal cells, cell death. Conclusion: The simultaneous treatment with sodium nitrite and nicotine led to changes in histological characteristics and meta-bolic markers. These included pathological physiological changes resulting from stimulation by either nicotine or sodium nitrite. Additionally, caused further pathological abnormalities in the kidneys. To reduce the risks asso-ciated with exposure to these chemicals and minimize their harmful effects on the kidneys and other organs, it is recommended to limit the use of preserved foods and frozen meats, as well as to quit smoking.