Effect of darbepoetin-alfa on haemato-biochemical parameters after sciatic nerve crush injury in rats

Abstract

This study investigates the therapeutic effects of darbepoetin alfa on hematological and biochemical profiles in a rat model of sciatic nerve crush injury. Twenty-four male rats (8-10 weeks old) and ………..g weight were randomly assigned to three groups (n=8): sham control, saline control and treatment administered with darbepoetin alfa (5000 IU/kg, intraperitoneal, for 3 days). Blood samples were collected before treatment and on days 3, 7 and 21 to assess hematological and biochemical parameters using automated analyzers. Hematological analysis revealed significantly higher total erythrocyte counts (TEC) and hemoglobin levels in the treatment group on day 3 and 7 (p<0.01) compared to the saline control, with no significant differences by day 21, confirming darbepoetin alfa’s hematopoietic effects without inducing polycythemia. No notable changes were observed in total leucocyte count or packed cell volume. Biochemical analysis demonstrated significantly lower levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, bilirubin, total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein in the treatment group on days 7 and 21 (p<0.01), alongside elevated albumin, total protein and high-density lipoprotein levels (p<0.01) compared to saline controls. These findings suggest hepatoprotective and nephroprotective effects, including reduced liver and kidney injury, improved hepatocyte function and enhanced protein synthesis. Darbepoetin alfa also improved motor and sensory functions, with no adverse clinical signs despite transient hematocrit elevation. These results, consistent with prior studies, highlight darbepoetin alfa’s potential as a safe and effective therapeutic agent for peripheral nerve injury repair, supporting hematopoiesis and hepatorenal function, warranting further exploration for clinical applications.