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The Sex-Dependent Ameliorative Effect of Intermittent Fasting on Urinary System Functions in Genetic Absence Epileptic Rats

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Epilepsy, a brain condition causing recurrent seizures, can disrupt various body functions, including urination. This study explored how alternate-day fasting (ADF), a type of intermittent fasting, a diet involving one day of eating and fasting, subsequently affects urinary system health in epileptic rats. Using a genetic rat model of epilepsy, we examined bladder and kidney function through tissue analysis, biochemical tests, and physiological assessments, focusing on differences between males and females. The results showed that epilepsy causes significant urinary system damage linked to inflammation and oxidative stress. However, ADF reduces this damage by lowering inflammation and restoring antioxidant balance. Male rats exhibited more oxidative damage, while female rats responded better to ADF, likely due to hormonal differences. These findings suggest ADF as a potential, cost-effective dietary approach to protect against urinary complications in epilepsy and similar conditions. Understanding these effects may lead to improved treatments for both genders and a better quality of life for people with chronic diseases.

Source: Biology

DOI: 10.3390/biology14020158

Authors: Damla Gökçeoğlu-Kayalı, Mehmet Ali Berkyürek, Zarife Nigar Özdemir-Kumral, Özlem Tuğçe Çilingir-Kaya

Institutions: Atlas Üniversitesi, Marmara University

Language: English

Topic: Dietary Effects on Health

Subfield: Physiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,258