Protective effect of Pueraria tuberosa DC. embedded biscuit on cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in mice.

Recently, the nephroprotective property of Pueraria tuberosa DC. tuber (PT) has been reported by our group. Here, PT-embedded biscuits were prepared and tested on cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in Swiss albino mice. The PT powder was characterized by RAPD (random amplified polymorphic DNA) to ascertain its authenticity and PT biscuits were prepared in different concentrations (1, 2, or 4 g of PT powder). These biscuits were given as diet for a total of 10 days, but on the 7th day cisplatin injection (8 mg/kg bw, i.p.) was given. On the 10th day animals were killed to collect kidneys for assessment of antioxidant status. Blood samples were collected on both the 7th and 10th days for assessment of liver and kidney functions. In mice, PT biscuit showed significant protection against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity, but there was a transient rise in alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase at the dose of 4 g PT biscuit. Therefore, it is suggested that PT biscuit might be an effective food supplement for cancer patients undergoing cisplatin-chemotherapy. However, periodical liver function monitoring is required, especially when PT is used for longer periods or at higher doses.