Protective Effect of Boldine Against Diclofenac-Induced Renal Damage in Rats

This study investigated the protective effect of alkaloid boldine against diclofenac-induced kidney damage in normotensive female rats. Animals were divided into three groups: naive, vehicle+diclofenac (50 mg/kg), and boldine+diclofenac (boldine 0.1 mg/kg+diclofenac 50 mg/kg). Treatments were administered orally once daily for 2 days. The vehicle+diclofenac group showed reduced urinary volume and sodium excretion. In contrast, the boldine+diclofenac group restored both parameters to levels similar to the naive group. Other urinary electrolytes indicated imbalance in diclofenac-treated animals, regardless of boldine co-treatment. Plasma analysis showed no alterations. Kidney tissue from diclofenac-treated groups revealed increased glutathione and decreased lipid hydroperoxides. Histology showed that vehicle+diclofenac resulted in a reduction in glomerular size, thickening of Bowman’s capsule, and mesangial disarray, while these changes were less pronounced with boldine co-treatment. Molecular docking analysis indicated that boldine may interact with important proteins related to renal hemodynamics, sodium regulation, and inflammatory processes pointing to a multi-target mechanism. Boldine attenuated renal damage induced by diclofenac, improving urinary parameters and reducing histological alterations. Further studies are necessary to elucidate its protective mechanisms and impact on renal hemodynamics.