Objective: To observe Chuanhuning injection (CHN)-induced renal toxicity on mice and the cytotoxicity on HK-2 cells. Method: Fifty ICR mice were randomly divided into normal control

positive control group (treated with Gentamycin)

CHN 150

1 000

2 000 mg·kg-1 groups

with 10 mice in each group. Mice in CHN groups were iv given CHN 150

1 000

2 000 mg·kg-1 by tail vein

once daily

for 7 d. The body weight

renal index

serum urea nitrogen and creatinine were assessed

and histopathological changes in renal tissues were detected. The proliferation inhibition of HK-2 cells was determined by MTT assay after different concentration of CHN treatment. The morphological changes of apoptotic cells were observed by the Acridine orange fluorescent staining. Annexin V/PI double staining was utilized to detect the cell apoptosis produced by CHN. Result: Compared with normal control group

serum creatinine in positive control group increased significantly (P<0.05). Compared with positive control group

renal index

serum creatinine and urea nitrogen concentrations in CHN 2 000 mg·kg-1 group increased with significantly statistical difference (P<0.05). Meanwhile

in this group exhibited cloudy swelling even necrosis in proximal convoluted tubules

some minerals deposition in some tubules and extension in section of tubules. CHN suppressed HK-2 cells growth and proliferation within the concentration ranging from 0.9-3.5 mmol·L-1. Fluorescence staining test manifestation series of cell shape changes of apoptosis such as nuclear chromatin condensation. AnnexinV/PI double staining analysis showed that CHN-induced cell apoptosis had significant difference compared with the positive group(P<0.05). Conclusion: CHN may exert toxic actions on kidneys of mice which maybe the outcome of the CHN-induced HK-2 cells apoptosis.