Phytochemical Characterization and Nephroprotective Activity of Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper Seed Extract Against Rifampicin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Wistar Rats

Abstract

The present study investigated the phytochemical composition and nephroprotective activity of aqueous seed extract of Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper against rifampicin-induced renal toxicity in Wistar rats. Seeds were subjected to pharmacognostic evaluation, physicochemical analysis, fluorescence analysis, qualitative phytochemical screening, thin-layer chromatography (TLC), paper chromatography, HPLC, FAB-MS and NMR characterization. Nephroprotective activity was evaluated using rifampicin-induced nephrotoxic rats by estimating body weight, blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine and serum uric acid. Histopathological examination of kidney tissues was also performed. Phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of flavonoids, phenolic compounds, tannins, alkaloids, glycosides, saponins and carbohydrates. Analytical studies identified raffinose family oligosaccharides including ajugose. Administration of aqueous extract significantly improved renal biochemical parameters compared with rifampicin-treated animals. Blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine and serum uric acid levels were markedly reduced following treatment with the extract. Histological observations further supported protection against tubular degeneration and inflammatory changes. The nephroprotective activity may be attributed to antioxidant phenolic constituents and flavonoids that reduce oxidative stress and preserve renal function. These findings suggest that Vigna mungo seeds possess promising nephroprotective properties and may serve as a valuable natural source for the development of renal protective agents.