Effect of Artemisia annua on kidney in gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in mice through regulation of the COX-2, NF-κB pathway

Abstract

BackgroundThis study aimed to examine the role of Artemisia annua in kidney functions in gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in mice. MethodsIn this study, 15 mice were used and divided into four groups. Each group has four mice; the first group is considered a control group with three mice due to receiving normal saline. Group II consists of an extract of Artemisia annua, group III consists of gentamicin, and Group IV consists of a combination of Artemisia annua and gentamicin. This process was continued for 15 days. All the mice were induced, and serum was extracted and used for biochemical parameters such as Creatinine, Urea, Uric acid, TNF-α, MDA, GSH, and Catalase (CAT) levels—additionally, histological and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis. ResultsThe results of this study confirmed biochemical values such as creatinine, Urea, and UA values showed a positive association (p<0.05), and showed a nominal association with histological analysis (p > 0.05). The Gentamicin group has a strong association with COX-2, NF-κB, and TGF-β genes (p < 0.05). ConclusionThis study confirms gentamycin has a role in kidney functions with nephrotoxicity in mice and the protective effect of Artemisia annua.