Nephroprotective Activity of Pistachio Kernels in STZ-Induced Diabetic Rats

Different parts of pistachio are precious sources for preparing new candidates for bio-molecule drugs to manage diseases such as cancer, obesity and diabetes. According to our previous study, the protein hydrolysates of pistachio kernels (PHPK) are capable of inhibiting the mechanism of the diabetes. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of PHPK on kidney biochemical and histopathological indices in STZ induced diabetic and high-sugar diet-fed rats.

Ninety-six Wistar male rats weighing approximately 250-300g were randomly divided into 12 groups of eight: three control groups and nine target groups (including rats with normal diet, rats with high-sugar diet and streptozotocin-diabetic rats with a normal diet), which were fed with different doses of PHPK for 8 weeks. Then the kidney function was measured using biochemical and histopathological assays.

The results demonstrated a reduction in the level of creatinine due to recovery in the glomerular filtration and repair of the cell damage caused by STZ. The PHPK and the ingredients showed therapeutic potential for kidney injuries preceded by STZ. In all dosages of PHPK, urea and creatinine levels decreased significantly, which is possibly correlated with the better protection of the kidneys (P≤0.05). After PHPK treatment, the levels of urea and creatinine decreased and the renal function improved.

Treatment with PHPK demonstrated a potential diabetes mellitus therapeutic effect. Specifically, higher treatment with dose corresponds to better renal function and better activity through the mechanistic action to reduce creatinine and urea levels in STZ-injected Wistar rats.