Pulicaria crispa mitigates nephrotoxicity induced by carbon tetrachloride in rats via regulation oxidative, inflammatory, tubular and glomerular indices

Context Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induces oxidative stress in various tissues by altering antioxidants defense system. Recently, there has been a substantial use of phytotherapy to treat different diseases. Objective This study was designed to evaluate the curative effect of Pulicaria crispa (Forssk.) Benth et Hook (Family Asteraceae) aerial parts ethanol extract against CCl4 induced toxicity in rats kidneys. Materials and methods Nephrotoxicity was induced by intraperitoneal injection with CCl4 in a dose of 0.5 mL/kg b.wt./twice a week for six consecutive weeks. Serum kidney function tests, oxidative stress markers, inflammatory cytokines, nephrotoxicity biomarkers and histopathological observation were evaluated. Results CCl4 increased serum kidney function parameters, malondialdehyde level, inflammatory cytokines, and nephrotoxicity markers, while decreased certain oxidative stress indices as superoxide dismutase and glutathione refereeing to the control group (p < 0.0001). Administration of P. crispa ethanol extract to CCl4 injured rats attenuated these changes with variable degrees. The results were confirmed through the observed amelioration of the renal histological architectures. Conclusion P. crispa ethanol extract possesses potent curative effect against CCl4-induced nephropathy through improvement of kidney function, oxidative stress, inflammatory and nephrotoxicity index and the renal histopathological features. To establish the therapeutic and pharmacological applications of the plant, additional researches are required.

Automated summary

The study demonstrated that the ethanol extract of Pulicaria crispa has a significant therapeutic effect against CCl4-induced nephropathy by improving kidney function, oxidative stress, inflammation, nephrotoxicity, and renal histopathological features. Additional research is needed to establish the therapeutic and pharmacological applications of the plant.