Nephro-protective potential of Morus alba, a prospective experimental study on animal models

AbstractContext: Morus alba L. (Moraceae) is traditionally used for the treatment of urinary incontinency due its strong diuretic properties.Objective: The present study explores the renal protective effects of M. alba, due to its free radical scavenging properties, in order to provide experimental evidence for its established use.Materials and methods: Ethanolic extract (200 mg/kg/d) derived from M. alba fruit was employed in rabbits as a co-therapy (GM-al) with gentamicin (80 mg/kg/d) for a period of 3 weeks. Biochemical kidney functioning parameters, urinary isozymes, and histopathological examination were performed.Results: The results showed that ethanol extract of Morus alba L. prevented alterations in serum creatinine (4.02 ± 0.14, p < 0.0001), blood urea nitrogen (54.18 ± 2.60, p < 0.0001), and serum uric acid levels (2.34 ± 0.12, p < 0.001). However, a decrease in creatinine clearance and urinary volume was observed in experimental groups. Histopathological examination and urinary enzymes excreti...