Ethics code: IR.ARDAKAN.REC.1403.044
daneshfard M, morovatisharifabad M, salehi E, dehestani ardakani M, Rezaei-Golmisheh A. Investigation Of Valacyclovir Oral Administration On Kidney Morphogenesis In Rat Embryo (Histochemical Approach). Studies in Medical Sciences 2025; 36 (3) :203-208
URL:
http://umj.umsu.ac.ir/article-1-6442-fa.html
چکیده: (55 مشاهده)
Background & Aims: Viral infections during pregnancy can create a serious threat to fetal development. Herpesviridae viruses are among the most common infectious agents during this period. Valacyclovir, a preconstruction of acyclovir, is widely used to treat infections caused by these viruses. considering its ability to cross the placenta and its potential effects on the fetus, this study aimed to investigate the effects of valacyclovir on the morphogenesis and histogenesis of fetal kidneys in pregnant rats.
Materials & Methods:
In this experimental study, 24 pregnant rats were randomly assigned to four groups. The control group no treatment received, while the experimental groups received valacyclovir at 100, 200, and 300 mg/kg of body weight daily. On gestational day 20, the animals were euthanized. Following blood sampling, fetuses were removed and their kidneys were collected. Tissue samples were examined using hematoxylin-eosin, periodic acid-Schiff (PAS), and Masson’s trichrome staining methods.
Results:
The results showed that increasing doses of valacyclovir significantly reduced crown-rump length and fetal weight. Additionally, kidney size and weight were markedly decreased. Serum levels of creatinine (Cr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) were significantly elevated. Furthermore, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were increased in the third experimental group. Histological assessments revealed structural damage in fetal kidneys, especially in the high-dose treatment groups.
Conclusion:
These findings indicate that high doses of valacyclovir can adversely affect fetal growth and kidney development. Therefore, its administration during pregnancy should be approached cautiously.