Investigation of the molecular and cellular effects of Shilajit on 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-induced nephrotoxicity in rats

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Kafkas University Medical School, Department of Urology, Kars, Türkiye

2 Kafkas University Department of Chemistry, Faculty Science and Letter, Kars, Türkiye

3 Department of Chemistry and Chemical Processing Technologies, Kars Vocational High School Kafkas University, Kars, Türkiye

4 Kafkas University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Biochemistry, Kars, Türkiye

5 Kafkas University Health Research and Application Hospital, Pathology Laboratory, Kars, Türkiye

Abstract

Objective(s): This study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of shilajit on 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-induced nephrotoxicity in a rat model.
Materials and Methods: Twenty male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into four groups: Control, 5-FU, shilajit, and 5-FU + shilajit. 5-FU was administered intraperitoneally at 200 mg/kg, while shilajit was given orally at 200 mg/kg. Kidney tissues were analyzed for oxidative stress markers, protein expression (SIRT2, SIRT3, β-catenin, E-cadherin, and caspase-3), and histopathological changes.
Results: 5-FU significantly increased oxidative stress parameters and kidney damage markers. Shilajit co-administration with 5-FU reduced oxidative stress and increased anti-oxidant status and SIRT2, SIRT3, and cell adhesion protein expression. Histopathological evaluation showed reduced renal damage in the shilajit + 5-FU group compared to the 5-FU group.
Conclusion: Shilajit exhibited significant protective effects against 5-FU-induced nephrotoxicity, improving oxidative parameters, protein expression, and kidney histopathology. Further studies are needed to elucidate its molecular mechanism and therapeutic potential.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Iranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences
Volume 28, Issue 5
May 2025
Pages 565-574

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