Hyperbaric oxygen as an immunosuppressant in mouse model of lupus nephritis

Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy has been used for many conditions. The immunosuppressive effect of HBO is also reported. Thus, HBO is thought to be used for the treatment of lupus nephritis (LN). The current research intended to determine the effect of HBO 2.0 ATA by inhaling ±100% oxygen (O2) 3 times for 30 min, for 10 consecutive days as an immunosuppressant in an animal model of LN. A total of 21 BALB/c female healthy and active mice (body weight 25-30 g and 8-12 weeks old) were divided into 3 groups including the group of control mice (G1), the group of LN mice without HBO therapy (G2), and the group of LN mice with HBO therapy (G3). The results showed a significant reduction of anti-dsDNA Ab and proteinuria levels in the HBO (G3) compared to the LN group not given HBO (G2). Repair of kidney tissue damage was characterized by a decrease in inflammatory cells, a decrease in tubular constriction and a decrease in immune complex deposits in the group given HBO (G3) compared to the group not given HBO (G2). HBO can reduce anti-dsDNA Ab levels and proteinuria, and repair damaged kidney tissue. In conclusion, the findings suggest the HBO as an immunosuppressive in LN in mice.