Moringa Leaves Extract Relieves Oxidative Stress and Improves Kidneys Impairment due to Lead Toxicity in Rats

The kidneys are the main target of lead toxicity as lead is accumulated in and excreted through the kidneys. The main lead toxicity occurs through oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation, causing cellular damage in the kidneys. Moringa leaves contain high levels of flavonoids, with antioxidant effects that are useful in treating diseases accompanied by oxidative stress due to toxicity. Our goal was to analyze the attenuation effects of Moringa leaves extract on lead-induced nephrotoxicity in male Wistar rats.

This research was conducted based on an experimental design and post-tests. Forty-eight Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups as follows: control group (K), which was given lead acetate at 750 mg/kg/day for 7 days, and three other groups of P1, P2 and P3, which were given lead acetate at the same dose for 7 days followed by administering with the ethanolic extract of Moringa leaves at 1,000, 1,500, and 2,000 mg/kg/day doses orally for 14 days, respectively.

There were improvements in oxidative stress in the kidneys of the study rats, marked by an increase in the serum levels of GSH, GPx, CAT, and SOD, and a decrease in the kidney MDA levels. Kidney disorders can be improved by administering ethanol extract from Moringa leaves, which is characterized by a significant decrease in blood BUN and creatinine levels.

All doses of the ethanolic extract of Moringa leaves reduced the oxidative stress and improved the kidney function impaired due to acute exposure to lead in male Wistar rats.