# Short-Term Intake of Euphorbia tirucalli Latex Modifies Kidney Function in Rats: Possible Role of Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Response

## TL;DR

Short-term intake of Euphorbia tirucalli latex in rats harms kidney function through oxidative stress and inflammation.

## Contribution

This study reveals the nephrotoxic effects of E. tirucalli latex in healthy rats, highlighting oxidative and inflammatory mechanisms.

## Key findings

- E. tirucalli latex reduced glomerular filtration rate and renal blood flow in rats.
- The latex increased oxidative stress markers and inflammatory activity in kidney tissue.
- Renal vascular resistance and mean arterial pressure were elevated after treatment.

## Abstract

Medicinal plants have been traditionally used for generations, often without scientific validation. Euphorbia tirucalli (E. tirucalli), a plant native to Africa, is commonly employed in folk medicine for treating various ailments, including cancer. However, most studies involving this species are limited to in vitro models, and its systemic effects remain poorly understood. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of E. tirucalli latex on renal function in healthy Wistar rats. Animals were divided into two groups: a control group receiving water and a treated group receiving E. tirucalli latex (13.47 mg/kg) by gavage for 15 days. Renal function was assessed by measuring glomerular filtration rate (GFR), renal plasma flow (RPF), renal blood flow (RBF), renal vascular resistance (RVR), and mean arterial pressure (MAP). Additionally, oxidative stress markers, reactive oxygen/nitrogen species, and inflammatory activity were analyzed in renal tissue. E. tirucalli significantly reduced GFR, RPF, and RBF, while increasing RVR and MAP. Renal tissue exhibited elevated levels of advanced oxidation protein products, myeloperoxidase, nitric oxide, and peroxynitrite/hydroxyl radicals. These findings indicate that E. tirucalli latex adversely affects renal hemodynamics and promotes oxidative and inflammatory damage, suggesting potential nephrotoxic effects, even in healthy subjects.