Protective effects of baobab (Adansonia digitata l.) fruit extract on lead-induced nephrotoxicity in wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus)

Abstract

Lead acetate is a known nephrotoxic agent that induces oxidative stress and renal damage. In this study, twelve (12) Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups each having three (3) rats: A control group, a group administered only lead acetate, and three treatment groups given varying doses (low, medium, and high) of baobab (Adansonia digitata L.) fruit extract after lead exposure. The study spanned 21 days, during which biochemical, histological, and morphological changes in the kidneys were assessed. Results showed that lead exposure caused renal damage, as evidenced by increased levels of serum creatinine and urea, and distorted kidney histoarchitecture. However, rats treated with baobab fruit extract showed a dose-dependent improvement in renal function and tissue architecture. These findings suggest that baobab fruit extract has nephroprotective effects, likely due to its antioxidant properties.