Kaempferol: A Dietary Flavonoid with Potential Protective Effects Against Kidney Diseases

Globally, kidney diseases represent a significant public health challenge, with high mortality rates and a considerable threat to human health. Despite the widespread use of pharmacological treatments, renal dialysis, and renal transplantation in the treatment of kidney diseases, these approaches often fail to address patients' therapeutic needs fully. As a result, the development of novel preventive tactics and specialized treatment approaches is crucial. Kaempferol, a flavonoid compound with various biological activities, has gained attention for its potential in treating neurological, cardiovascular, metabolic, and cancer-related conditions, owing to its exceptional anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-apoptotic properties. Studies have shown that kaempferol is highly effective in protecting the kidneys and can effectively address a range of kidney diseases, including diabetic nephropathy, renal fibrosis, urinary stones, and renal cell carcinoma. Furthermore, it has been demonstrated to markedly enhance renal damage resulting from sepsis, pharmaceutical agents, and heavy metals. This review comprehensively reviews the available evidence on the therapeutic role of kaempferol in various common kidney diseases and elucidates the specific molecular mechanisms of kaempferol's nephroprotective effects. In addition, it provides insights and references for further scientific research, clinical drug development, and nutritional supplementation of kaempferol in kidney diseases.