Mitigation of Lead-Induced Renal Dysfunction and Tissue Damage by Microwave-Assisted Extracts of Silybum marianum: Impact on Systemic Growth, Blood Profiles, and Renal Architecture
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Lead is a widespread environmental toxicant that induces nephrotoxicity primarily through oxidative stress and disruption of cellular homeostasis. Natural antioxidants such as Silybum marianum have gained attention for their protective potential against heavy metal toxicity. Thirty adult male Wistar rats were divided into five groups (n = 6): normal control, lead acetate-treated (100 mg/kg), lead + Silybum marianum (100 mg/kg), lead + Silybum marianum (200 mg/kg), and lead + glutathione + vitamin C. Treatments were administered orally for 30 days. Biochemical parameters including serum urea, creatinine, lipid profile, and blood lead levels were measured. The kidney tissues were also examined histopathologically.Lead exposure significantly elevated blood lead levels, serum urea, creatinine, total cholesterol, LDL, VLDL, and triglycerides, while reducing HDL levels. Treatment with Silybum marianum extract demonstrated a dose-dependent protective effect, with the high dose showing near normalization of biochemical and histological parameters.Silybum marianum seed extract exerts significant nephroprotective effects against lead-induced toxicity, likely via antioxidant mechanisms, and may serve as a promising natural therapeutic agent for managing lead-induced renal damage
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