Abstract 4368722: Photobiomodulation Protects the Cardiorenal Axis in Diabetic Nephropathy

Introduction: Dysregulation of the cardiorenometabolic axis in Diabetes Mellitus (DM) induces a complex pathophysiological cascade involving oxidative stress, systemic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and hemodynamic instability. These mechanisms synergistically promote cardiovascular and renal deterioration. Photobiomodulation (PBM) emerges as a mitochondria-targeted, non-pharmacological therapy capable of modulating cellular redox signaling and inflammatory pathways, offering a promising therapeutic strategy for preserving the functional integrity of this axis. Objective: To evaluate the effects of PBM on renal function, oxidative profile, inflammatory profile, and renal hemodynamics in rats with diabetic kidney disease (DKD). Methods: Adult male Wistar rats, 250–290 g, were randomized into four groups: Citrate: healthy animals that received 0.01M citrate buffer; Citrate + PBM: citrate animals that, on the third day, underwent to PBM (irradiation with an 808 nm wavelength; 100 mW power; 3 Joules energy; 30.48 J/cm fluence,1 point on the right flank and 1 point on the left flank; 3 times/week; 6 weeks); Diabetes Mellitus (DM): animals that received streptozotocin (STZ; 60 mg/kg; i.v.; once; diluted in 0.1M citrate buffer; pH 4.2; on the first day of the experimental protocol); DM + PBM: DM animals subjected to PBM. The protocol lasted 45 days, during which the animals were monitored for the development of DM and other biological parameters. At the end of this period, physiological parameters, renal function, renal hemodynamics, oxidative profile, and inflammatory profile were assessed. Results: Diabetic animals showed dysregulation of the cardiorenometabolic axis, with a significant reduction in GFR and increased serum creatinine, indicating renal dysfunction due to hyperglycemia and vascular injury. The group treated with photobiomodulation demonstrated better glycemic control, increased GFR, reduced mean arterial pressure and renal vascular resistance, as well as improved renal blood flow. A reduction in oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory cytokines was also observed. Conclusion: Photobiomodulation improved renal function and hemodynamic parameters in diabetic animals, likely through modulation of oxidative stress, reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and better glycemic control. These findings support its potential as a non-pharmacological strategy to preserve the integrity of the cardiorenometabolic axis in diabetic nephropathy