Abstract
Background: Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease. The aim of the current study is to investigate the possible beneficial effects of Hyphaene thebaica in DN.
Materials and methods: For this, 50 male albino rats were divided into five groups: group I - represented the control group; group II - received Hyphaene thebaica extracts of 150 mg/kg BW by oral gavage for 6 weeks; group III - received single intraperitoneal injections of streptozotocin (50 mg/kg BW) to induce type-2 diabetes mellitus; group IV (protective) - diabetic rats received Hyphaene thebaica extract (150 mg/kg BW) orally for 6 weeks; group V (curative) - received Hyphaene thebaica extract (150 mg/kg BW) orally after the diagnosis of DN.
Results: In the DN protected group, blood glucose, urea, and creatinine decreased significantly, while insulin and C-peptide increased significantly. Moreover, cystatin C and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin decreased. Collagen fibre deposition is increased with an apparent thickening of the parietal layer of Bowman's capsules and the basal lamina of convoluted tubules, as well as increase of the immune-reaction of caspase-3 and desmin. The introduction of Hyphaene thebaica led to greater amelioration in the biochemical markers, apoptotic alterations, and podocyte injuries of the protected group than in the curative group.
Conclusions: Hyphaene thebaica may be advised as a good choice that can delay diabetic renal complications.