Preclinical Evaluation of Kudzu Root Extract and Maqui Berry Extract in Streptozotocin induced Nephropathy

• Sakshi Ingale,  
• Chetana Shewale,  
• Aman Upaganlawar,*  
• Chandrashekhar Upasani

Abstract

Background: Nephropathy is a significant microvascular problem associated with diabetes. Present study is design to assess the role of Kudzu root extract and Maqui berry extract for their probable nephroprotective effects in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. Materials and Methods: Diabetes nephropathy was developed in a group of male wistar rats (200-250 g) by a single dose of streptozotocin (55 mg/kg/i.p.). Nephropathy was assessed by biochemical parameters including blood glucose, total protein, albumin, urea, uric acid, creatinine, and total bilirubin in serum and urine. Oxidative stress markers such as lipid peroxidation, reduced glutathione and superoxide dismutase, were assessed along with the membrane bound ATPases. Kudzu root extract and Maqui berry extract administered to the nephropathy rats at a dose of 50 mg/kg/p. o and 100 mg/kg/p. o individually and in combination for 2 weeks. Result and conclusion: DN rats showed a significant elevation in creatinine, albumin, total protein, total bilirubin, uric acid, urea and oxidative stress markers such as lipid peroxidation and a significant reduction in superoxide dismutase and glutathione level. Treatment with Kudzu root extract at dose 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg as well as Maqui berry extract at dose 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg alone and their combination for 2 weeks notably altered the level of renal function biomarkers, oxidative stress markers and ATPases level towards near normal level. The current results indicate that combined use of Kudzu root extract and Maqui berry extract demonstrates synergistic effects in alleviating renal injury by reducing hyperglycemia and oxidative stress markers.

Keywords

Diabetic nephropathy, Kudzu root extract, Maqui berry extract, Streptozotocin