EFFECT OF AQUEOUS LEAF EXTRACT OF MANIHOT ESCULENTA ON KIDNEY FUNCTION PARAMETERS IN STREPTOZOTOCIN (STZ)-INDUCED DIABETIC RATS.

ABSTRACT This study evaluated the nephroprotective effects of aqueous leaf extract of Manihot esculenta (cassava) in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Diabetes mellitus is a growing global health burden, with diabetic nephropathy being one of its most severe complications. Although cassava leaves are widely used in traditional medicine for diabetes management, their renal- protective properties require further scientific validation. In this experiment, diabetes was induced in albino rats with STZ, followed by treatment with different doses (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) of cassava leaf extract. Kidney function biomarkers, including serum and renal creatinine, urea, and uric acid, were assessed, alongside histopathological examinations, and compared with both untreated diabetic rats and a metformin-treated control. Results showed that STZ significantly impaired kidney function and altered renal histology. Treatment with Manihot esculenta extract improved biochemical and histological parameters in a dose-dependent manner, with the 400 mg/kg dose producing effects comparable to metformin. These findings suggest that Manihot esculenta leaf extract possesses reno-restorative properties, potentially mediated through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic activities, making it a promising natural therapeutic option for diabetic nephropathy, particularly in resource-limited regions.