Ficus Carica Prevents Oxidative Stress in Kidney Rats Induced by Chronic Intermittent Hypoxia

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to determine puree of Ficus carica (PFC) as a source of exogenous antioxidants in protecting the kidneys of rats induced by chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) 

Methodology/approach: Rats induced by CIH a 4-hour hypoxia cycle in hypoxia chambers                         (10% oxygen and 90% nitrogen) and puree Ficus carica (PFC) administration. Twenty-four Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into 6 groups (n=4): neutral control (NC) group, chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) group, CIH and vitamin E (CIH-E) group, and three PFC intervention groups with different doses (CIHF-1.25; CIHF-2.5; CIHF 5.0) ml/200gBW/d. Serum urea, creatinine levels, Malondialdehyde (MDA), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels of the kidney were assessed.

Results/findings: The levels of MDA, SOD, and SOD/MDA ratio of the kidney showed significant differences in the CIHF-5.0 group compared to the negative control. Urea serum was lower in the      CIHF-5,0 group and creatinine serum in the CIHF 2,5 group. Urea and creatinine serum had a significant difference compared to the negative control group. 

Limitations: This study did not explore the specific bioactive compounds in Ficus carica that can influence several parameters in the kidney. In general, this study showed that Ficus carica intervention was better than administering Vitamin E.

Contribution: This study contributes to the development of science, particularly preventative medicine, by employing antioxidant chemicals in Ficus carica to mitigate the effects of chronic hypoxia.

Novelty: There has never been any research into the use of functional foods derived from Ficus carica to alleviate the effects of chronic hypoxia on the kidney organ.