Caffeic acid phenethyl ester ameliorates cadmium-induced kidney mitochondrial injury

This study examined whether caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) can protect kidney mitochondria against cadmium toxicity. Kidney mitochondria isolated from Wistar rat were exposed to cadmium and/or CAPE at various concentrations. Mitochondrial function, ultrastructure and oxidative stress status were determined. Cadmium exposure resulted in mitochondrial swelling, dissipation of membrane potential, overproduction of reactive oxygen species, and impaired ultrastructure. The injury was accompanied by an increase in mitochondrial nitric oxide and malondialdehyde levels as well as a decrease in superoxide dismutase activity and antioxidant thiols. Pretreatment with CAPE ameliorated all the changes caused by cadmium. The results suggest a promising role for CAPE as mitochondria-targeted antioxidant to combat the renal toxicity of cadmium.

► Cadmium directly deteriorated the structure and function of kidney mitochondria. ► Cadmium-induced injury was associated with changes in mitochondrial redox status. ► Pretreatment with CAPE ameliorated all the changes caused by cadmium. ► The protection afforded by CAPE was mediated through its antioxidant properties.