Eriocitrin in the Treatment of Diabetic Nephropathy: Amelioration Against Oxidative Burst and Inflammation Approach

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) induces hyperglycemia and oxidative stress in the kidneys and may cause kidney dysfunction. Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a prolonged problem of DM with limited treatment. Purpose: In this work, we planned to investigate the beneficial effects of eriocitrin, a natural flavanol found in citrus fruits, against DM-induced DN in rats. Materials and methods: For the induction of DN, animals were fed a high-fat diet and were administered with streptozotocin (35 mg/kg). After induction, eriocitrin (50 or 100 mg/kg) was administered to the DM rats, and their changes in feed intake, body weight, blood glucose levels, and blood samples were monitored on a daily basis. The oxidative stress markers were estimated by using standard protocols. The renal function markers such as the activity of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen levels were investigated by using kits. The kidney injury molecule (KIM-1) and pro-inflammatory markers were determined by using commercial kits. The kidney tissues were studied histopathologically. Results: Eriocitrin considerably reduced the body weight and food consumption in DM-induced rats. Furthermore, eriocitrin restored the values of biochemical parameters such as glucose, glycated hemoglobin, urea, creatinine, LDH, serum cholesterol, and triglycerides to near-normal levels. Moreover, the antioxidant properties of eriocitrin markedly suppressed the oxidative and inflammatory markers by continuing the antioxidant/reactive oxygen species balance. Furthermore, the biochemical parameters are well correlated with histopathological examination. Conclusion: Our results provide valuable scientific information, that supports the therapeutic role of eriocitrin and its protective effects in DM and its complications (DN).