Objective: To determine the histological effects of Nigella sativa on kidneys against aspirin-induced nephrotoxicity in albino rats.
Study design: An experimental study.
Place and duration of study: Anatomy Department, University of Health Sciences, Lahore, from January 2014 to December 2015.
Methodology: Thirty-two rats were equally divided into four groups A, B, C and D of eight animals each. Group A (control) was provided with single oral dose of 10 mg/100 gm body weight of 1% methyl cellulose. Group B (experimental group) and C (self recovery group) were provided with single oral dose of 1000 mg/kg aspirin. Group D was provided with 250 mg/kg ethanolic extract of Nigella sativa followed by 1000 mg/kg aspirin by oral gavage, after that only extract of Nigella sativa was given for seven days. Animals of groups A, C and D were sacrificed on the 8th day of experiment and that of group B on the second day of experiment. Kidneys were excised and fixed in 10% formalin solution. Hematoxylin, eosin and periodic acid Schiff's reagents were used to stain the kidney tissues. Histological slides were prepared to study proximal convoluted tubules.
Results: Histological parameters were normal in control group A. Significant impairment was present in group B. There was no self-recovery in group C. Significant improvement was present in all the parameters of group D.
Conclusion: Nigella sativa has protective effect on aspirin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats.