Aqueous extract of Annona squamosa (L.) ameliorates renal failure induced by 5/6 nephrectomy in rat

OBJECTIVE: To assess the renoprotective activity of the water extract of Annona squamosa in 5/6 nephrectomized animals. MATERIALS AND METHODS: For evaluating the renoprotective effects of Annona squamosa, 5/6 nephrectomized rats were used as a model for renal failure. The effects of hot-water extract of leaves of Annona squamosa L. (A. squamosa) at a dose 300 mg/kg bw on biochemical and urinary parameters like plasma urea, plasma creatinine, and urine creatinine were analyzed. For elucidating its effect on oxidative stress, renal superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were measured. RESULTS: Nephrectomized rats (5/6) showed a significant rise in plasma urea and creatinine levels with a stable fall in urine creatinine. Treatment with A. squamosa extract (300 mg/kg bw) lead to a significant fall in the plasma urea and creatinine values with partial restoration to normal values along with a significant rise in the activity of SOD. CONCLUSION: Thus, therapeutic strategies against oxidative stress could be effective in renal diseases. This study provides an indication to investigate further the efficacy of A. squamosa as a novel agent for alleviating renal failure.