Nephroprotective effects of <i>Cajanus cajan</i> on lead acetate-induced kidney damage of male Wistar rats

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Lead acetate (Pb), a contaminant found in the environment, is one of the many substances and medications that can cause nephrotoxicity In male Wistar rats, this study investigated the nephroprotective properties of Cajanus cajan ethanol leaf extract.

METHODOLOGY: Twenty (20) adult Wistar rats weighing 150-180g were divided randomly into five groups of four rats each. Group A served as the control and received no treatment. Group B was given only lead acetate dissolved in water at 20 mg/kg body weight via oral gavage. Group C, D and E were given oral intubation of C. cajan ethanol leaf extract at 200, 400 and 800 mg/kg respectively for 14 days followed by oral gavage of Lead acetate mixed in water at 20 mg/kg for 7 days. At day 15 animals were anaesthetized using chloroform. 4 ml of blood sample was collected by ocular puncture from each of the animals using capillary tube and allowed to clot. The serum was collected and further assessed. The Kidney was quickly harvested washed in saline and was stored in 10% formalin solution at room temperature for histopathological studies.

RESULTS: When compared to control group A, the lead-exposed group's, B, C, D and E Groups of serum creatinine and urea levels increased remarkably (p <0.05). Serum creatinine and urea levels in the Cajanus cajan-treated groups C, D and E were significantly (p <0.05) lower compare to group B which was only lead exposed. In the histology, control group showed normal architecture of the kidney. While in group B, administration of lead acetate was seen to cause non-proliferative glomerular atrophy. While in the treated group C, D and E mataplasia and glomerular atrophy were significantly decreased compared to group B.

CONCLUSION: Findings suggest that Cajanus cajan has a significant protection on the kidneys from the harmful effects of lead.