# Nephroprotective Effects of Tanacetum balsamita Extract on Metabolic-Induced Renal Injury (MIRI) in Rats

## TL;DR

This study shows that Tanacetum balsamita extract can protect rat kidneys from diabetes-related damage by reducing oxidative stress and improving kidney function.

## Contribution

The novel contribution is the identification of Tanacetum balsamita extract's nephroprotective effects in a rat model of metabolic-induced renal injury.

## Key findings

- High-dose Tanacetum balsamita extract significantly reduced blood glucose and improved antioxidant markers in diabetic rats.
- The extract lowered urea and creatinine levels and reduced proteinuria, indicating improved kidney function.
- Histopathological analysis confirmed protective effects of the extract on kidney tissue.

## Abstract

The progression of type 2 diabetes is associated with multiple complications, one of which is diabetic nephropathy (DN). This study aimed at investigating the nephroprotective potential of two doses 150 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg of Tanacetum balsamita leaf extract (ETB) on metabolic-induced renal injury (MIRI) in rats. Markers of renal oxidative stress and antioxidant defense, histopathology, serum biochemistry, and urinalysis were measured. Blood glucose level and arterial blood pressure were assessed weekly for the experimental period of eight weeks. ETB at a high dose significantly decreased the blood glucose levels and mildly lowered systolic pressure in diabetic rats. In the kidney, ETB restored the antioxidant marker malondialdehyde, reduced glutathione, and markedly increased enzymatic activity related to GSH turnover by 46% (GPx), 22% (GR), 32% (GST), and 96% (SOD). ETB reduced elevated urea and creatinine levels and alleviated the proteinuria along with other urinalysis parameters. Histopathological examination of the kidney supported the observed protective effects. Both doses of the ETB ameliorated most of the investigated parameters similarly to positive controls enalapril and acarbose. ETB benefits on MIRI-induced damages could be associated with high levels of mono- and dicaffeoylquinic acids together with a series of methoxylated flavones and flavonols, which may hold significance for its antidiabetic and nephroprotective activity.