Anti-urolithiatic activity of saponin rich fraction from the methanolic extract of Achyranthes aspera against ethylene glycol induced urolithiasis in Wistar rats

Abstract

Achyranthes aspera is growing as a weed and is widely dispersed. The diuretic and anti-urolithiatic properties of this plant’s leaves and roots are mentioned in ancient literature by the Ayurvedic system of medicine. This report was planned to explain the usage of A. aspera in the dissolution of kidney stones. Materials and methods: The saponin-rich fraction was originated from the methanolic extract of the aeriform portions of A. aspera and its anti-urolithiatic efficacy was evaluated by In-vitro and In-vivo screening. Two distinct dosages (200 and 400 mg/kg, p.o., for 28 days) of the saponin-rich fraction were chosen, and ethylene glycol (EG, 0.75% in drinking water for 28 days) induced urolithiasis model. Several biochemical markers were assessed in kidney homogenate, urine, and serum after 28 days. Similarly, kidneys were exposed toward histological examination. Saponin-rich fraction of A. aspera (SAA) bridged the nucleation and aggregation of calcium oxalate crystals (CaOx) when they were formed in In-vitro. The lithogenic treatment caused oxidative stress and damaged renal function. It was evidenced by increased urinary defecation of urea, uric acid, calcium, serum creatinine, and BUN levels. Increased malondialdehyde and reduced kidney catalase antioxidant enzyme activities that were stopped by concurrent administration of SAA. CaOx deposition in renal tissue was observed in histopathology. Administration of a dosage regimen of SAA has the potential to prevent the pathological variations in lithiogenic treatment. The present work revealed that the saponin-rich segment of the methanolic extract of A. aspera efficiently dissolves CaOx renal stones. Less CaOx was deposited, which made it harder for stones to form by the curative effect of SAA. Findings from this study rationalize the medicinal use of this extract in urolithiasis.