Asprosin protects against ischemia/reperfusion-induced kidney injury in mice

Abstract

Ischemia–reperfusion (IR)-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) is a complex pathophysiological process involving inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. Asprosin (ASP), a fasting-induced glucogenic hormone, has been shown to influence oxidative and apoptotic pathways in various tissues. This study investigated the potential renoprotective effects of ASP in a murine model of IR-induced AKI. Thirty-two male Balb/c mice were randomly assigned to four groups (n = 8): Control, IR, ASP1 (1 µg/kg ASP), and ASP10 (10 µg/kg ASP). While the control group received no treatment. Vehicle and ASP (1 or 10 µg/kg) were administered intravenously five minutes before ischemia to the IR and ASP-treated groups, respectively. Renal ischemia was induced for 22 min, followed by a 24-h reperfusion period. Renal function markers, inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress parameters, and caspase-3 expression were evaluated. Histopathological alterations were assessed using hematoxylin–eosin staining. IR significantly increased BUN, creatinine, IL-1β, TNF-α, MDA levels, and caspase-3 expression, while reducing antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT). ASP pretreatment effectively reversed these changes (p < 0.05), as reflected by improved renal function, reduced inflammation and oxidative stress, and decreased apoptotic activity. These functional and molecular improvements were also supported by histological evidence showing reduced kidney damage following ASP treatment. Collectively, the findings suggest that ASP protects against IR-induced AKI by alleviating inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis.