Multifaceted Nephroprotection: Exploring Nettle (Urtica dioica) extract Role in Combating Cisplatin-Induced Renal Injury

Cisplatin is a widely used chemotherapeutic agent, but its clinical application is often limited by nephrotoxicity, characterized by oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in renal tissues. This study investigates the potential protective effects of Urtica dioica (nettle) ethanolic extract against cisplatin-induced kidney damage in a rat model. Thirty-two rats were divided into four groups: control, nettle-treated, cisplatin-treated, and cisplatin plus nettle extract-treated. Renal function markers, oxidative stress parameters, inflammatory mediators, and apoptotic markers were analyzed. The results show that cisplatin administration led to significant renal dysfunction, evident from elevated serum creatinine and BUN levels, increased oxidative stress markers (MDA), and decreased antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, CAT, and GSH). Additionally, cisplatin upregulated NF-κB and proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6), as well as intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic markers (caspase-3, caspase-8, caspase-9, cytochrome c, and Bax), while downregulating the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2. Conversely, nettle extract significantly ameliorated cisplatin-induced renal impairment by improving kidney function, enhancing antioxidant enzyme activity, reducing NF-κB and proinflammatory cytokine levels, and restoring apoptotic balance. These findings suggest that Urtica dioica possesses strong nephroprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic properties, potentially offering a therapeutic approach to mitigate cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. Further research is necessary to elucidate its precise mechanisms and clinical applicability.