Effect of Crataegus and Hyperoside on renal dysfunction and renin release in L-NAME-induced hypertensive rats

Abstract

Crataegus has long been used as a folk medicine all around the world. The pharmacological effects of Crataegus have mainly been attributed to the flavonoids. Epidemiological studies have been suggested that flavonoids decrease death from coronary heart disease and stroke incidence. In this study, we investigated the effect of Crataegus tanacetifolia (CT) and hyperoside on renal dysfunction and renin release in L-NAME-induced hypertensive rats. Twenty-eight male Wistar albino rats were used in this study. Rats were divided randomyl info four groups. Group 1: Saline control group (n=8); Group 2: Nω nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) (50 mg/kg)-induced hypertensive group (n=8); Group 3: L-NAME+Crataegus tanacetifolia (CT) (100 mg/kg/day by gavage) group (n=6); Group 4: L-NAME+Hyperoside (6 mg/kg/day by gavage) group (n=6). To produce long-term hypertension, L-NAME was dissolved in the drinking water at a concentration of 0.5 gr/L and then given to three groups for four weeks. Mean arterial blood pressure decreased significantly in CT and hyperoside groups, compared to non-treated L-NAME hypertensive rats. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR), urine osmolality (Uosm), water, Na+ and Cl- excretion, number of renin-positive areas in kidney cortex were increased in L-NAME+CT group compared to hypertensive group. Urinary excretion of water (UV) decreased significantly while GFR and urine osmolality showed a significant increase in hyperoside treatment group compared to hypertensive group. However, renin-positive areas were significantly increased in kidney cortex in this group. In conclusion, in this study showed that CT especially the hyperoside can be partially prevented L-NAME-induced renal injury and increased renin granule in rats.

Keywords: Crataegus tanacetifolia, Hyperoside, Kidney Structure, Renin, L-NAME