A Novel Biomarker For Nandrolone Decanoate Induced Nephrotoxicity

Introduction: Anabolic androgenic steroids are testosterone derived molecules which are often used therapeutically, its misuse by athletes and non-athletes causes a broad spectrum of side effects. Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) is a 25 kDa protein belonging to the lipocalin superfamily. In clinical studies, NGAL has been found to be an early predictor for acute kidney injury (AKI). Aim and Objective: The present study was designed to analyze the Nandrolone decanoate induced nephrotoxicity in Wistar rats using biochemical and histopathological assessment and also to identify a reliable novel biomarker for anabolic androgenic steroid induced nephrotoxicity. Materials and Methods: Twelve male wistar rats (100 ± 50 g body weight) were randomly divided into two groups. Group 1- control rats received corn oil (1ml/kg body weight) intramuscularly and Group 2- ND group received 5mg/kg of Nandrolone decanoate intramuscularly. All treatments were given twice weekly for three months. One week after the last dose of injection, animals were sacrificed, blood and tissue were collected to investigate serum biomarkers and histopathology for nephrotoxicity. Results: Nandrolone decanoate group showed elevated levels of serum creatinine, urea, NGAL and severe alterations in the renal histology as compared with control. NGAL is a reliable novel biomarker for identifying the anabolic androgenic steroid-induced nephrotoxicity in rats.