Polyphenol-rich extract of Ocimum gratissimum leaves Prevented Toxic Effects of Cyclophosphamide on the kidney Function of Wistar rats

Abstract

Background Cyclophosphamide (CP) is one of the potent and low cost chemotherapy used in clinical setting against a variety of tumors. However, its association with nephrotoxicity limits its therapeutic use. Ocimum gratissimum leaf is a natural plant with numerous pharmacological and therapeutic efficacies, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammation, and anti-apoptotic properties.Methods The present study was designed to evaluate the protective effect of Ocimum gratissimum (OG) against CP-induced kidney dysfunction in rats. Rats were pre-treated with 400 mg/kg b.w. of polyphenol-rich Ocimum gratissimum leaves (PREOG) for 4 days and then 50 mg/kg b.w. of CP was co-administered from day 5 to day 7 along with PREOG. Markers of renal function and oxidative stress, food and water intake, electrolytes, aldosterone, leukocytes infiltration, inflammation and histopathological alteration were evaluated.Results Obvious renal inflammation and kidney injuries were observed in CP treated groups. PREOG administration prevented oxidative stress, kidney injuries, attenuated inflammation, increased aldosterone production and reduced sodium and water loss in rats. PREOG also decreased the plasma concentrations of Interleukin-(IL)-6, C-reactive protein and activity of myeloperoxidase and malondialdehyde in CP treated rats.Conclusion OG prevented kidney injury and enhanced renal function via inhibiting inflammation and oxidant-induced CP toxicity. The efficacy of OG is related to the presence of various phytochemicals in the plant.