The ameliorative potential of Hyphaene thebaica on streptozotocin-induced diabetic nephropathy

width: 0px; "> disease. The aim of the current study is to investigate the possible beneficial effects
of Hyphaene thebaica in DN.
Materials and methods: For this, 50 male albino rats were divided into five
groups: group I — represented the control group; group II — received Hyphaene thebaica extracts of 150 mg/kg BW by oral gavage for 6 weeks; group III
— received single intraperitoneal injections of streptozotocin (50 mg/kg BW)
to induce type-2 diabetes mellitus; group IV (protective) — diabetic rats received Hyphaene thebaica extract (150 mg/kg BW) orally for 6 weeks; group V
(curative) — received Hyphaene thebaica extract (150 mg/kg BW) orally after the
diagnosis of DN.
Results: In the DN protected group, blood glucose, urea, and creatinine decreased
significantly, while insulin and C-peptide increased significantly. Moreover, cystatin C
and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin decreased. Collagen fibre deposition is increased with an apparent thickening of the parietal layer of Bowman’s
capsules and the basal lamina of convoluted tubules, as well as increase of the
immune-reaction of caspase-3 and desmin. The introduction of Hyphaene thebaica
led to greater amelioration in the biochemical markers, apoptotic alterations, and
podocyte injuries of the protected group than in the curative group.
Conclusions: Hyphaene thebaica may be advised as a good choice that can delay
diabetic renal complications. (Folia Morphol 2015; 74, 4: 447–457)
Key words: diabetic nephropathy, Hyphaene thebaica, podocyte injury,
apoptosis