THERAPEUTIC EXPLORATION OF TYLOPHORA INDICA: ANTIOXIDANT PROPERTIES, ACUTE TOXICITY, AND ANTIUROLITHIC POTENTIAL IN A SODIUM OXALATE-INDUCED MODEL

Abstract

Background: Urolithiasis, or kidney stone formation, is a prevalent condition with rising global incidence, often attributed to dietary and lifestyle factors. Conventional treatments pose limitations, necessitating exploration of alternative herbal therapies. Tylophora indica Merr. is a traditionally used medicinal plant, but its antiurolithic properties remain underexplored.

Objective: To evaluate the antioxidant, acute oral toxicity, and antiurolithic activities of hydroalcoholic extracts of T. indica leaves using sodium oxalate-induced urolithiasis models.

Methodology: Hydroalcoholic extracts of T. indica were prepared using Soxhlet extraction. Antioxidant activity was assessed via hydrogen peroxide scavenging and lipid peroxidation assays. Acute oral toxicity studies were conducted in Wistar rats at doses up to 2000 mg/kg body weight. In-vivo antiurolithic activity was evaluated in sodium oxalate-induced urolithiasis models, with groups receiving preventive and curative doses (200 and 400 mg/kg). Urine, serum, and kidney histopathological parameters were analyzed for oxalate, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and lactate dehydrogenase levels.

Results: The extract demonstrated significant antioxidant activity (IC50: 291.175 µg/mL for hydrogen peroxide scavenging; 273.6 µg/mL for lipid peroxidation). Acute toxicity studies confirmed the extract\u2019s safety up to 2000 mg/kg. In urolithiasis models, the 400 mg/kg dose effectively reduced urinary oxalate and calcium while increasing magnesium levels and urine volume, comparable to the standard drug Cystone. Histopathological analysis revealed reduced crystal deposition and renal tissue damage in treated groups.

Conclusion: T. indica exhibits promising antioxidant and antiurolithic properties, supporting its potential as a safe and effective herbal remedy for urolithiasis.