Protective Potential of Bryoplhyllum Pinnatum Leaf Extract Against Microplastics Induced Changes in the Kidney of Rats

Microplastics, small plastic particles prevalent in the environment, pose significant health risks due to their ability to induce oxidative stress and inflammation, particularly in vital organs such as the kidneys. This study investigates the nephroprotective effects of Bryophyllum pinnatum (BP) leaf extract against microplastics-induced kidney damage in rats.A total of 36 rats were randomized into six groups: Group I: control group, Group II:microplastic group; Group III: microplastic + 50 mg/kg(BP) leaf extract, Group IV: microplastic + 100 mg/kg (BP) leaf extract, Group V: microplastic + 200 mg/kg (BP) leaf extract and Group VI: microplastic + 500 mg/kg (BP) leaf extract. The rats was exposed to microplastics for 28 days while the treatment lasted for 21 days. Kidney tissues were analyzed for gene expression (Cystatin C and paraoxonase), oxidative stress markers, and histopathological changes. Results showed that microplastic exposure suppressed protective gene expression and caused significant oxidative stress and inflammation. BP treatment, particularly at 50 mg/kg, enhanced gene expression for cystatin c gene and mitigated tissue damage, with higher doses showing reduced efficacy. While Paroxonase gene was significantly downward regulated. The findings highlight BP's potential as a natural therapeutic for kidney protection against microplastic-induced toxicity, emphasizing its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.