The preventive effect of berberis vulgaris extract on contrast-induced acute kidney injury

Abstract

Background: Oxygen free radicals are known as one of the causes of kidney injury. Therefore, Berberis vulgaris which has high level of antioxidant activity may be able to prevent this injury by elimination of free radicals. Objectives: This study was aimed to investigate the protective effect of B. vulgaris extract on contrast media-induced nephrotoxicity. Materials and Methods: To conduct this experimental study, 30 male rats were randomized to three groups; Control, contrast media, and contrast media + B. vulgaris extract. After the treatment, histopathological damages to the kidney tissues were comparatively studied. Results: Tissue damage was greater in the contrast media-treated group than the other two groups (P < 0.001). In group treated with B. vulgaris extract, the rate of tissue damage deceased significantly (P < 0.001). Conclusions: This study showed the positive effects of B. vulgaris on contrast media-induced nephrotoxicity. This inexpensive and non-toxic medicinal plant might be used as an effective agent for people at risk of contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI).