Renoprotective Role of Thymol-loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles in Cholestatic Rats

Introduction: Acute kidney damage (AKI) in cirrhosis, encompassing hepatorenal syndrome (HRS), is a prevalent and severe complication among cirrhotic patients, resulting in considerable morbidity and mortality. Thymol is derived from thyme extract and has numerous advantageous qualities, including antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, and antibacterial activities. The current study aims to augment the therapeutic efficacy of thymol against acute renal injury generated by bile duct ligation (BDL) through its encapsulation in chitosan nanoparticles. Methods: Thirty rats were categorized into five groups: sham, BDL, and cholestatic rats administered chitosan, thymol, and CS-thymol nanoparticles. Results: The administration of CS-thymol nanoparticles significantly improved renal function, as indicated by decreased levels of urea, creatinine, and uric acid. Furthermore, CS-thymol nanoparticles induced an increase in glutathione reductase (GSH) and catalase (CAT), while simultaneously reducing the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO). The administration of CSthymol nanoparticles diminished DNA damage and partially rehabilitated the abnormal structure of renal tissues in cholestatic rats. The immunohistochemistry analysis revealed a significant reduction in tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and Caspase-3 expression. discussion: The inclusion of thymol into chitosan nanoparticles improves their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties, ultimately enhancing kidney function and structure in cholestatic rats. Discussion: CS-thymol nanoparticles demonstrated their potential in antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and anti-apoptotic capabilities that safeguard the kidneys against cholestatic damage. Conclusion: The inclusion of thymol into chitosan nanoparticles improves their antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties, ultimately enhancing kidney function and structure in cholestatic rats.