The Nephroprotective Effect of Zizphus Jujuba Extract Against 5-Flurouracil- Induced Nephropathy

This study assessed the protective effect of Zizphus jujube (ZJ) extract on 5‑FU‑induced alterations in renal function markers and kidney morphology in Dawley rats. Twenty-four rats were divided randomly into four groups administrated orally with 0.9% normal saline as the control group, 5-FU (40 mg/kg daily for 5 days), ZJ (500 mg/ kg daily for 5 days), and 5-FU‏+ ZJ (for 6 days). further biochemical experiments carried out on blood collected from the heart. Kidney tissues were obtained for analysis of catalase (Cat), glutathione S-transfers (GST), and lipid peroxide levels as well as histology analysis. 5-FU significantly reduced the enzyme activity of Cat and GST and increased levels of lipid peroxidation and plasma creatinine levels (P < 0.005). Histopathological examination showed severe wide ischemia of proximal convoluted tubule (PCT), missing in Bowman's space, and edema in the group treated with 5-FU. In addition, pretreatment with ZJ has significantly improved levels of Cat and GST and reduced lipid peroxidation and plasma creatinine levels (P < 0.05). Moreover, the histopathological analysis showed that ZJ relatively prevented the damage in renal tubular cells compared with 5-FU treated group. Supplementation with ZJ may have clinical benefit in nephrotoxicity caused by 5‑FU.