Curative Potential of Abutilon indicum Extract against Heat Stress-induced Kidney Damage in Adult Male Rats

Abstract

Introduction: The pharmacological activity of Abutilon indicum plant has been studied in various animal groups and clinical trials. This study aimed to investigate the protective role and mechanism of Abutilon indicum on adult male rats with heat stress-induced acute kidney injury. Materials and methods: Abutilon indicum was obtained from the Botany Department of Al-Muthanna University, Iraq. The seeds, roots, and leaves of Abutilon indicium were prepared as an aqueous extract. In this experiment, 30 male albino rats, aged eight weeks, with an average weight of 200 ± 20 g. were recruited. After acclimation for a week, the rats were divided randomly into three groups, 10 male rats in each group. The GI group (negative control) received daily oral treatment with saline via gavage for 28 days. In contrast, the GII group (positive control) was subjected to heat exposure and moisture stress. The GIII group was exposed to heat stress, involving a temperature increase of 40°C for 5 hours each day using electric heaters and humidity levels ranging from 75% to 85% for 5 hours daily (from 12:00 pm to 03:00 pm) over a four-week period. Additionally, the GIII group received oral treatment with fresh Abutilon Indicum extract at a dosage of 400 mg/kg of body weight for the first 12 hours of each day for 28 days. Results: The results of this study revealed a significant decrease in biochemical parameters (blood urea and serum creatinine) in the GIII group, compared to GII group. Additionally, the histological analysis identified glomerulolysis and degeneration with dilation of the capsule zone in the GII group, while the GIII showed a decrease in capillary congestion with the severity of pathological damage reduced. Conclusion: Considering the obtained results, it can be concluded that Abutilon Indicum extract has a significant positive effect on the biochemical parameters of the rats’ kidney damage induced by heat stress.