KIDNEY FUNCTION

This study investigated the effects of controlled consumption of Predator energy drink on kidney function among healthy young adults in the University of Benin. Energy drinks contain caffeine, taurine, sugars and several additives that may influence renal physiology. The study assessed both plasma and urinary biomarkers to determine whether short term intake could produce early changes in renal function. A total of young adult participants were assigned into three groups which included a control group, a group that consumed one bottle of Predator energy drink daily and another group that consumed two bottles daily for one week. Blood and urine samples were collected after the intervention and analysed using standard biochemical methods. The results showed that cystatin C levels increased significantly in both energy drink groups, indicating early glomerular stress. Plasma creatinine and plasma electrolytes did not show significant changes, suggesting that the kidneys were still able to maintain filtration and electrolyte balance during this short exposure period. Urinary findings showed significant changes in urine pH, urinary bicarbonate, urinary potassium and urinary creatinine, which indicated early tubular alterations and increased renal workload. Urinary albumin remained unchanged across all groups, showing that structural glomerular integrity was preserved. The study concludes that short term consumption of Predator energy drink can cause mild renal stress that is detectable through sensitive biomarkers even when traditional renal markers remain within normal limits. These findings highlight the importance of moderate intake among young adults to prevent possible long term renal complications. It is recommended that regular consumers undergo periodic health checks and that more extended studies be carried out to determine the long term effects of frequent energy drink consumption.

This study investigated the effects of Acanthus montanus leaf extract on kidney function in an experimental animal model. The research also aimed to scientifically validate the ethnomedicinal use of the plant in managing renal disorders. Fresh leaves of Acanthus montanus were collected, authenticated, air-dried, and extracted using distilled water. The animals (Male Wistar rats) were divided into control and treatment groups, respectively. The extract was administered at graded doses, and serum biochemical parameters, including Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), bilirubin, urea, and creatinine, were measured. Results indicated significant (p<0.05) dose-dependent reductions in elevated serum enzyme levels and improved renal function markers among treated groups compared to the control. The study provides scientific support for the traditional use of Acanthus montanus in managing kidney disorders. The results highlight its potential as a natural source of therapeutic agents for oxidative stress-related organ damage.

Sphenocentrum jollyanum is an important West African medicinal plant traditionally used for treating fever, digestive disorders, and metabolic ailments. Despite its widespread use, limited information exists regarding its biochemical safety and systemic effects during prolonged exposure. This study investigated the effect of aqueous leaf extract of Sphenocentrum jollyanum on renal and hepatic biochemical parameters in Wistar rats following 28 days of sub-chronic oral administration. Twenty male Wistar rats were divided into four groups of five animals each: a control group that received distilled water and three experimental groups treated with 200 mg/kg, 400 mg/kg, and 800 mg/kg of the aqueous leaf extract, respectively, for 28 consecutive days. Blood samples were analyzed for creatinine, urea, uric acid, and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) using standard spectrophotometric methods. The mean biochemical values obtained were as follows: creatinine (4.25 ± 2.07–8.96 ± 3.32 mg/dL), urea (99.82 ± 7.00–161.54 ± 22.92 mg/dL), uric acid (8.18 ± 3.75–13.57 ± 3.88 mg/dL), and AST (54.41 ± 7.28–74.03 ± 18.06 U/L). The results showed no statistically significant differences (p > 0.05) between treated and control groups across all parameters. A slight, non-dose-dependent variation in creatinine and a mild reduction in urea and AST levels at higher doses indicated stable renal and hepatic function. These findings suggest that the extract does not induce nephrotoxicity or hepatotoxicity but may
support metabolic and antioxidant balance. In conclusion, sub-chronic administration of S. jollyanum aqueous extract in Wistar rats was well tolerated and biochemically safe at all tested doses. The study validates the plant’s traditional use as a detoxifying and restorative agent and supports its potential as a natural source of hepatoprotective and nephroprotective compounds.

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is an incretin hormone widely recognized for its role in enhancing insulin secretion and improving glycemic control. Beyond its antidiabetic effects, emerging evidence suggests that GLP-1 may influence renal physiology, hematological and glucose levels. This study investigates the subacute toxicity effects of MaxGLP-1 a novel analogue of GLP-1 administration on the kidney, hematological and blood glucose levels in experimental models over a 28 day period. A total of 20 rats were divided into four groups and were fed and given water daily. Group 1 was the control and was exposed to standard feeding and water only, Group 2 was administered 10mg/kg of MaxGLP-1, Group 3 was administered 60mg/kg MaxGLP-1 drug while Group 3 was administered 600mg/kg doses of MaxGLP-1. At the end of the study, animals were sacrificed, the kidneys were harvested and taken to the laboratory to be examined, blood samples were also collected and centrifuged to obtain the serum and were subjected to biochemical assays. Findings showed dose-related changes in serum creatinine and urea, indicating possible renal stress. Haematological analysis revealed mild but notable shifts in erythrocyte and leukocyte indices, while glucose levels decreased significantly across treatment groups. Overall, Max GLP- 1 exhibited hypoglycaemic effects with minimal haematological disturbances, though higher doses suggested early signs of renal compromise. These results highlight the need for cautious dose optimization and further investigation into long-term safety