ABSTRACT
The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of a hydro-alcoholic extract of Vitex agnus-castus [VAC] fruit on blood urea nitrogen [BUN], creatinine [Cr] and, kidney histology of a female mouse model of D-galactose induced aging. In this experimental study, 72 NMRI mice were divided into 6 groups: control, VAC, D-galactose, D-galactose+VAC, aging, and aging+VAC. D-galactose was injected for 45 days and, VAC extract administered in the last 7 days, twice a day. Serum BUN and Cr levels were not significantly changed in the D-galactose and natural aged animals in comparison to control group. Histological changes such as nuclear pyknosis, proximal cell swelling, infiltration of inflammatory cells, tubular dilatation and, vasodilatation were observed in both D-galactose and natural aged mice. Further, glomerules diameter was decreased in them. Administration of VAC could attenuate the histological alterations. These results indicate that VAC may have beneficial effects on aging and aging related kidney disease
ABSTRACT
Acetaminophen is a commonly used analgesic and antipyretic agent which, in high doses, causes liver and kidney necrosis in man and animals. Curcuma longa has been reported to have anti oxidant and hepato-protective properties. In this study the protective effect of Curcuma longa extract on acetaminophen induced nephrotoxicity has been evaluated. Sixty NMRI male mause were randomly divided into 6 groups. Control group received normal saline. Curcuma longa group received 1000 mg/kg of the extract of the plants, positive control group received 500 mg/kg acetaminophen. Acetaminophen and Curcuma longa extract at doses of 400, 800 and 1000 mg/kg were administered to the tested groups [T[1] T[3]] at the same time. The jugular arteries of the mice were cut for biochemical testes after 48 hours and the kidney removed in 10% formalin solution for histopathology testes. BUN, Cr and Uric acid reduced significantly in the T[3] group [p < 0.05]. Necrosis of kidney reduced in test groups especially in T[3] group. The results of this study indicate that Curcuma longa extract may protect kidney against acetaminophen - induced tubular necrosis in mice