Protective effect of Curcuma longa extract on acetaminophen induced nephrotoxicity in mice

Abstract

Background and purpose of the study: Acetaminophen is a commonly used analgesic and antipyretic agent which, in high doses, causes liver and kidney necrosis in man and animals. Curcuma longa has been reported to have anti oxidant and hepato-protective properties. In this study the protective effect of Curcuma longa extract on acetaminophen induced nephrotoxicity has been evaluated.

Materials and methods: Sixty NMRI male mause were randomly divided into 6 groups. Control group received normal saline.  Curcuma longa group received 1000 mg/kg of the extract of the plants, positive control group received 500 mg/kg acetaminophen. Acetaminophen and Curcuma longa extract at doses of 400, 800 and 1000 mg/kg were administered to the tested groups (T₁- T₃) at the same time. The jugular arteries of the mice were cut for biochemical testes after 48 hours and the kidney removed in 10% formalin solution for histopathology testes.

 Results: BUN, Cr and Uric acid reduced significantly in the T₃ group (p<0.05). Necrosis of kidney reduced in test groups especially in T₃ group.

Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that Curcuma longa extract may protect kidney against acetaminophen - induced tubular necrosis in mice.