Effects of Omega-3 Supplementation on Renal Function in D-Galactose-Induced Aging Male Rabbits

Abstract

Background and Objective: Aging is associated with progressive deterioration of renal function through glomerulosclerosis and tubular atrophy. Experimental administration of D-galactose accelerates the aging process by inducing oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, leading to renal dysfunction. The present study aimed to investigate the protective effects of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids against D-galactose-induced renal damage in adult male New Zealand White rabbits.

Methods: Sixteen adult male New Zealand White rabbits were randomly divided into four experimental groups: control (T1), D-galactose-treated (T3B), concurrent treatment with D-galactose and omega-3 (T2), and delayed omega-3 treatment following D-galactose administration (T3A). The experimental period lasted 90 days. Serum samples were analyzed for advanced glycation end products (carboxymethyl lysine [CML] and pentosidine), oxidative stress markers (Malondialdehyde [MDA], protein carbonyl, superoxide dismutase [SOD], and catalase), inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-alpha [TNF-α] and interleukin-1 beta [IL-1β]), and kidney function parameters, including blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, albumin, and cystatin C.

Results: Administration of D-galactose significantly increased the concentrations of advanced glycation end products, oxidative stress markers, and inflammatory cytokines, while significantly impairing kidney function compared with the control group. Omega-3 supplementation significantly reduced the levels of advanced glycation end products, oxidative stress markers, and inflammatory cytokines, and improved kidney function parameters. Furthermore, concurrent administration of omega-3 with D-galactose (T2) produced greater protective effects than delayed omega-3 treatment (T3A).

Conclusion: D-galactose-induced aging resulted in marked oxidative stress, inflammation, and renal dysfunction in rabbits. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids effectively attenuated these adverse effects through their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, with concurrent supplementation providing greater protection than delayed treatment. These findings suggest that omega-3 supplementation may represent a promising preventive strategy against age-related renal dysfunction.