Synergistic effect of N-acetyl cysteine and folic acid against aspartame- induced nephrotoxicity in rats

The objective of the present study is to explore the synergic and the presumable protective effects of the combination of N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) and folic acid (FA) against aspartame induced nephrotoxicity. Eighteen adult male Wistar rats, weighing 150-170 g, were randomly divided into three groups as follows: first group was given distilled water and served as control group; the seconed group was given aspartame dissolved in distilled water in a dose of 500 mg /kg b.wt.; the third group was given both NAC and folic acid dissolved in distilled water in a dose of 600 mg /kg b.wt. and 12 mg/kg b.wt. respectively. Serum urea, creatinine, and potassium were significantly increased whereas sodium and calcium were significantly decreased in rats that had received aspartame. Blood hemoglobin, serum iron and ferritin were significantly decreased whereas serum total iron binding capacity (TIBC) and unsaturated iron binding capacity (UIBC) were significantly increased.The concentration of reduced glutathione (GSH), and the activity of glutathione peroxidase (Gpx), and catalase (CAT) were significantly decreased whereas the concentration of LPO (TBARS) in kidney tissues was significantly increased. Combined Treatment with NAC and FA significantly restored kidney functions, modulate hematological parameters, reduced lipid peroxidation and enhanced reduced glutathione level.