Histological Study of Kidney Changes in Cisplatin-Treated Mice

Abstract

Cisplatin (CDDP) is one of the most effective anticancer drugs used in the treatment of several solid tumors; however, its clinical application is limited by nephrotoxic side effects. The present study aimed to evaluate the histopathological effects of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity on kidney tissue in mice. Twenty male mice were randomly divided into two groups: a control group receiving isotonic saline and a treated group receiving cisplatin (60 mg/kg, i.p.) administered in three doses every other week. After 3 weeks, kidney tissues were collected and examined histologically using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Masson’s trichrome staining.The results showed that cisplatin-treated mice exhibited decreased food and water intake as well as significant reduction in body weight gain compared with the control group. Histopathological examination revealed severe renal alterations, including hypertrophied renal corpuscles, reduced glomerular cellularity, tubular degeneration, acute tubular necrosis, edema, hyperemia, and hemorrhage. Proximal convoluted tubules showed cytoplasmic debris, destruction of brush borders, vacuolated cytoplasm, and mononuclear cellular infiltration. In addition, membranoglomerulopathy and proliferative glomerulonephritis were observed in treated animals.These findings demonstrate that cisplatin induces marked nephrotoxic effects characterized by structural and degenerative renal damage, particularly affecting the proximal convoluted tubules. Adequate hydration and the use of protective agents may help reduce cisplatin-induced kidney injury.