Ethyl alpha-D-glucoside increases urine volume and causes renal morphologic changes in rats.

Ethyl alpha-D-glucoside (alpha-EG) is a peculiar component in sake, a traditional Japanese alcoholic beverage. In this study, morphological changes in kidney and effects on urine excretion by alpha-EG ingestion were investigated. After the rats were fed with pellet diets containing 100% or 20% alpha-EG dietary level, alpha-EG was detected in urine and urine volume showed significant increase (p<0.05). Kidney weights were increased (p<0.05) and renal tubules were dilated in the rats by alpha-EG ingestion, whereas there was no detectable histopathological damage to renal cells. Plasma uric acid and urea levels were not affected. In conclusion, ingested alpha-EG was excreted in urine, increasing urine volume. Increase in kidney weight related to renal tubule dilation was observed with alpha-EG ingestion without deteriorate changes in the renal cells or functions.