Abstract: Objective:　To investigate the effects on the expression of related protein of AQP2 and alteration of morphology and function in kidney of endotoxemic rats. Methods:　24 rats were randomly divided into 3 groups (n=8 each): C1 group (sham control group), C2 group (saline and fat milk group), and L group (endotoxin and fat milk group). The morphology and function of kidney and the levels of AQP2, ICAM-1, and TNF-α with RT-PCR and Western blot were detected. Results: Endotoxemia led to morphological damage and functional impairment, and downregulation of AQP2 and upregulation of ICAM-1 and TNF-α in rat kidney. Conclusions: Endotoxemia led to renal damage, and decreased AQP2 level, and increased ICAM-1 and TNF-α level.

Key words: endotoxemia, kidney, AQP2, ICAM-1, TNF-α