Copper-nicotinate complex (CNC) has antioxidant activities through scavenging of free radicals formed
inside the body. CNC also has anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory activities. The current study was
designed to determine the effect of glycerol on rat kidney function and oxidative stress as well as, the
potential nephroprotective effects of CNC. Forty male Wistar rats were randomly allocated into four
equal groups. The groups of rats were as follows: GI was kept under normal control conditions; GII was
orally given CNC at a dose of 0.043 mg kg
1 body weight (BW), three times/week for 4 weeks; GIII
was administered glycerol (topical application) at a dose of 3.15 ml kg
1 BW daily for 4 weeks; and GIV
was given CNC and glycerol with the same dose and route. The results revealed that CNC improves the
renal dysfunctions induced by glycerol by recovering the levels of urea and creatinine to normal, as
well as through the antioxidant status manifested by the normalization of catalase, superoxide dismutase, reduced glutathione, and malondialdehyde levels. Moreover, by its effect as an anti-oxidant, CNC
reduces the effect of glycerol on the kidney by decreasing the fibrosis, degenerative changes and necrotic changes in the renal tubules. In conclusion, CNC could alleviate the side effects that might be
caused by glycerol.