Aim: The aim of our experimental study was to determine the effect of exogenic nitrates on certain biological parameters in relation to renal insufficiency.
Results: Chronic treatment of rats for 5 months with varying nitrate concentrations (50, 100, 150 and 500 mg/L) induced a dose-dependent reduction in plasma concentrations of total proteins and a dose-dependent increase in plasma urea concentrations and creatinine.
Discussion: This histological study of the kidney shows that nitrates at doses of 150 and 500 mg/L cause a deterioration in the epithelia of the renal tubules.
Conclusion: In conclusion, a high nitrate intake induces morphofunctional disturbances of the kidney and could thus be regarded as a causative factor in renal insufficiency.