Effect of Quyu Chencuo Formula () on Renal Fibrosis in Obstructive Nephropathy Rats

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Pathology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Obstructive nephropathy is a leading cause of kidney disease.
• Renal fibrosis is a common pathological feature of chronic kidney disease.
• Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas are increasingly investigated for therapeutic potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of Quyu Chencuo Formula (QCF) in ameliorating renal fibrosis.
• To evaluate the molecular mechanisms underlying QCF's effects on obstructive nephropathy in a rat model.

Main Methods:

• A rat model of unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) was established.
• Animals were divided into sham operation, UUO model, and QCF-treated UUO groups.
• Renal tissues were analyzed using Hematoxylin-Eosin (HE) and Masson staining.
• Immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, and RT-PCR were employed to assess protein and mRNA expression of TGF-β1, α-SMA, and E-cadherin.

Main Results:

• UUO induced significant renal interstitial fibrosis, increased TGF-β1 and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression, and decreased E-cadherin expression.
• QCF treatment attenuated interstitial fibrosis and reduced the expression of TGF-β1 and α-SMA.
• QCF treatment significantly increased E-cadherin expression compared to the model group.

Conclusions:

• Quyu Chencuo Formula demonstrates a protective effect against renal fibrosis in obstructive nephropathy.
• QCF may exert its therapeutic benefits by modulating the expression of TGF-β1, α-SMA, and E-cadherin.
• These findings suggest QCF's potential as a therapeutic agent for preventing kidney fibrosis progression.