Effects of L-Arginine Supplementation on Leukogram, Inflammatory Bowel Infiltrates and Immunoglobulins with 5-FU Use in Rats

ABSTRACT

This study evaluated the effects of L-arginine supplementation on blood parameters, kidney and liver function, immunoglobulins and noninflammatory infiltrates in the small intestines of rats subjected to chemotherapy with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). Thirty-two Wistar rats were randomly distributed into 4 groups (8 rats/group): an untreated control group, and test groups receiving one dose of 5-FU (G_5-FU group), one dose of 5-FU and 295 mg L-arginine/day (G_Arg295 group) or one dose of 5-FU and 458 mg L-arginine/day (G_Arg458 group). Neutrophil count, platelet count, serum IgA, and fibrinogen levels in G_Arg295 and G_Arg458 remained within normal limits after chemotherapy. In addition, in G_Arg458 the inflammatory bowel infiltrates improved in 57% of the rats, which showed mild inflammation. The results suggest that daily supplementation with 295 or 458 mg L-arginine attenuates the side effects of 5-FU, including thrombocytopenia and neutropenia, and modulates IgA production. Supplementation with 458 mg of L-arginine/day can also reduce mucositis levels in the small intestine after 5-FU chemotherapy.

Statement of Interest

All of the authors contributed in the planning of this study, interpretation of the data, writing, review and approval of the manuscript. All of the authors declare that there is no conflict of interest.

Additional information

Funding

The research was funded by Universidade do Oeste Paulista – UNOESTE.