Evaluation of in vitro antioxidative and protective effects of kefir on cyclophosphamide-upon oxidative stress and lung damage in rats

Purpose: Kefir, a natural probiotic, has antioxidative and antitumor properties, as well as potential beneficial properties resulting from microbial species and fermentation. Cyclophosphamide (CYP) is a cytotoxic drug that is highly preferred in cancer therapy but can suppress both humoral and cellular immunity. The use of effective doses is limited because CYP has an immunosuppressive effect and causes multiple organ toxicity such as the lungs, and the use of effective high doses is restricted. Methods: Wistar albino rats were divided into 6 groups. As; control, 150 mg/kg CYP, 5 mg/kg kefir, 5 mg/kg kefir +150 CYP, l0 mg/kg kefir, l0 mg/kg kefir+150 CYP. Fermented kefirs from the 1st, 2nd and 3rd days were mixed and given to the rats for 12 days, while CYP was given as a single dose and ip on the 12th day of the experiment. The received parameters were evaluated. Results: It was observed that the OSI value, which indicates oxidative stress, increased in the CYP-administered group, and this level approached control in the CYP+kefir groups. In addition, while degeneration, intense inflammation in the interalveolar area, collapse of the alveoli, and intense inflammation around the bronchioles were observed in the lung parenchyma of CYP-administered rats, it was observed that these effects were effectively improved in the groups given kefir+CYP. Conclusion: In conclusion, in our study, it was observed that kefir showed antioxidative and protective effects on CYP-induced oxidative stress, congestion, alveolar damage and inflammation.