Changes of serum leptin in rat renal fibrosis induced by unilateral ureteral obstruction

Objective To explore leptin expression in rat renal fibrosis induced by unilateral ureteral obstruction(UUO)and its role in the pathogenesis of renal fibrosis.Methods Forty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into sham operation group(n=8),3 d after UUO group(n=8),7 d after UUO group(n=8),14 d after UUO group(n=8),21 d after UUO group(n=8).The model rats were sacrificed at days 3,7,14,21 after UUO.The levels of serum leptin,urea nitrogen and creatinine at each time point were determined.Tissue sections were stained by HE and Masson staining.Results ①The levels of serum creatinine and urea nitrogen were not significantly different in UUO groups than in sham operation group.②The scores of renal interstitial lesion were significantly higher in UUO groups than in sham operation group.③The levels of serum leptin increased progressively at days 7,14 and 21 after UUO.Conclusion Leptin expression is enhanced in renal fibrosis,and may be involved in the pathogenesis of renal fibrosis.