Objective: To investigate the effects of rutin on renal function and pathological changes in diabetic nephropathy rats. Method: The model of diabetes nephropathy in rats was made by intraperitoneally injecting alloxan at 70 mg·kg-1 once weekly for 3 times continuously. The model rats were randomly divided into the model group

the high-

low-dose rutin groups (100

200 mg·kg-1) and the irbesartan group (20 mg·kg-1). The healthy rats were assigned to the normal group. The corresponding medicines were intragastrically administrated to rats once daily for 12 weeks. Levels of fasting blood glucose (FBG)

serum creatinine (SCr)

blood urea nitrogen (BUN) in serum

24-h urine protein and kidney index were tested. The renal pathological changes were examined by HE staining

Masson staining and electron microscopy. Result: Compared with the normal group

the levels of FBG

SCr

BUN

24-h urine protein and kidney index all increased (P<0.01)

kidney tissues such as glomerulus atrophy

renal capsule enlargement

renal interstitial area appearing much blue collagenous fiber

basilar membrane thicken diffusely

and fusion of foot process were injured remarkably in the model group. Compared with model group

rutin could decrease the levels of SCr

BUN

24-h urine protein and kidney index (P<0.05

P<0.01). Conclusion: Rutin could improve the kidney function and reduce the renal injury degree in diabetic rats.