Phytochemical Strategies to Counteract Nephrotoxicity and Hepatotoxicity in Diabetic Models

Nambi Namusisi H.

School of Natural and Applied Sciences Kampala International University Uganda

ABSTRACT

Diabetes mellitus is associated with long-term complications, including nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity, largely due to hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress and inflammation. Persistent hyperglycemia generates excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS), disrupts mitochondrial function, and activates various pro-inflammatory signaling pathways, such as NF-κB and MAPKs. These processes contribute to cellular injury, fibrosis, and organ dysfunction, especially in the kidneys and liver. Diabetic nephropathy manifests as glomerular hypertrophy, mesangial expansion, and proteinuria, whereas diabetic hepatopathy is characterized by hepatic steatosis, inflammation, and elevated transaminase levels. Conventional pharmacotherapies often inadequately address these complications and may present undesirable side effects. As such, there is a growing interest in natural therapeutic alternatives. Phytochemicals, the bioactive compounds derived from plants, have emerged as promising therapeutic agents due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and organ-protective properties. Compounds such as curcumin, resveratrol, quercetin, and berberine have demonstrated significant efficacy in mitigating diabetes-induced renal and hepatic damage in preclinical studies. These agents modulate multiple cellular pathways, enhance endogenous antioxidant defenses, and improve glycemic control. This article reviews recent advances in phytochemical-based strategies for counteracting nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity in diabetic models, highlighting their mechanisms of action, experimental evidence, and potential for clinical translation. A comprehensive understanding of these strategies can inform the development of integrative therapeutic approaches in diabetes management

Keywords: Phytochemicals, Diabetes Mellitus, Nephrotoxicity, Hepatotoxicity, Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, Curcumin, Resveratrol, Nanotherapy

CITE AS: Nambi Namusisi H. (2025). Phytochemical Strategies to Counteract Nephrotoxicity and Hepatotoxicity in Diabetic Models. IAA Journal of Applied Sciences 13(2):43-50. https://doi.org/10.59298/IAAJAS/2025/435000