Immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic effect of Solidago virgaurea extract against experimental Doxorubicin-induced nephrotoxicity

Abstract

Aim DOX is a widely used chemotherapeutic agent, but its severe nephrotoxicity limits its clinical use. This study evaluates the potential protective effects of Solidago virgaurea extract against DOX-induced kidney damage in rats. Methods Animals were classified into four groups, with 8 rats in each group: control, extract-only, DOX, and DOX plus extract (DOX + Solidago virgaurea extract). Results After 14 days, DOX administration led to significant renal impairment, demonstrated by elevated serum Cr and BUN levels, along with histopathological disruption. DOX also induced oxidative stress by increasing MDA levels and reducing TAC. Furthermore, it triggered renal inflammation by upregulating pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β, while downregulating anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10, TGF-β, IL-35). Additionally, DOX promoted renal apoptosis by increasing the levels of apoptotic markers (Caspase-3, BAX) and decreasing the anti-apoptotic BCL-2 protein levels. Co-treatment with Solidago virgaurea extract effectively mitigated these adverse effects by reversing the previously observed changes in these parameters. Histopathological analysis further confirmed the preservation of renal architecture compared with the DOX-only group. Conclusion These results suggest that Solidago virgaurea extract exhibits strong nephroprotective potential, making it a promising adjunctive therapy for preventing chemotherapy-induced kidney injury.