Evaluation of nephroprotective activity of Capsicum annuum in rifampicin induced nephrotoxicity

Abstract

The nephroprotective effect of methanolic extract of Capsicum annuum fruits is experimentally evaluated by rat model. In the present study, the methanolic extract of Capsicum annuum fruits significantly reduced the toxicant elevated levels of urea uric acid creatinine parameters and increase in the levels of protein in blood and urine, methanolic extract of Capsicum annuum fruits is found to reduce such changes in kidney histology induced by Rifampicin, indicating nephroprotection. Further documented reports reveal that, plant material containing phenols, flavonoids, triterpenoids, alkaloids and saponins offers organ protection by virtue of their free radical scavenging activity. Phytochemical analysis showed the presence of phenols, flavonoids, triterpenoids, alkaloids and saponins as phytoconstituents. Hence, the role of these phytoconstituents as free radical scavengers and consequent nephroprotection cannot be ruled out. Based on improvement in serum and urine marker levels, histopathological studies, level of antioxidant enzymes and presence of phytoconstituents, it is concluded that the methanolic extract of Capsicum annuum fruits possesses nephroprotective activity and thus supports the traditional application of the same under the light of modern science.