EFFECT OF GONGRONEMA LATIFOLIUM ON THE KIDNEY OF ADULT MALE WISTAR RAT FOLLOWING NICKEL TOXICITY

This study evaluates the nephroprotective potential of Gongronema latifolium against nickel-induced kidney damage in adult male Wistar rats. Nickel is a prevalent environmental contaminant known to accumulate in kidneys, causing nephrotoxicity through oxidative stress and inflammation. The protective role of Gongronema latifolium, a traditional medicinal plant with strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, was investigated using histopathological analysis and body weight monitoring. Twenty-six Wistar rats were divided into five groups: Group 1 received both nickel and low-dose Gongronema latifolium, Group 2 received only Gongronema latifolium, Group 3 received nickel and high-dose Gongronema latifolium, Group 4 received nickel only, and Group 5 served as the control. Nickel was administered for 21 days to induce toxicity, followed by treatment with Gongronema latifolium for 14 days. Histopathological evaluation showed no significant renal damage in the nickel-treated group, contradicting expectations based on the known nephrotoxic effects of nickel. Body weight analysis, however, indicated that rats exposed to nickel experienced weight loss, which was improved by Gongronema latifolium in a dose-dependent manner, suggesting its potential in mitigating nickel toxicity. The study concludes that while Gongronema latifolium demonstrates protective effects on body weight, its nephroprotective role against nickel-induced histological changes in renal tissues remains inconclusive. Further research is recommended to explore the detailed mechanisms of action and optimize therapeutic dosing.