Effects of Eprosartan on Glomerular Injury in Rats with Reduced Renal Mass

Abstract

The effects of the selective angiotensin AT1 receptor antagonist, eprosartan, were evaluated in experimental renal disease. Five-sixth nephrectomy in male Munich-Wistar rats led to the development of hypertension, proteinuria and remnant glomerulosclerosis. Administration of the AT1 receptor antagonist, eprosartan, for 4 weeks resulted in inhibition of angiotensin II activity as confirmed by a reduced blood pressure response to exogenous angiotensin II challenge. Compared to vehicle treatment, eprosartan normalized blood pressure, reduced proteinuria and limited remnant glomerulosclerosis. These data suggest that eprosartan may provide a new tool in the treatment of progressive renal disease.