Background and purpose: Goreisan, a Kampo medicine, has been used to treat edema, such as heart failure, due to its diuretic effects. However, few studies have investigated the effects of Kampo medicine on chronic kidney disease (CKD). We examined the effects of Goreisan on CKD.
Methods: We examined a mouse model of folic acid (FA)-induced CKD to investigate the preventive effects of goreisan. Mice were treated with food containing Goreisan (1.5% or 3 %) at 48 h after FA intraperitoneal injection (AKI phase). Tissue samples were collected on day 14 and analyzed.
Results: Histological analysis, as well as renal function and renal injury markers, deteriorated in mice with FA-induced CKD, which was ameliorated by goreisan treatment. The increased levels of inflammatory cytokines and macrophage infiltration were also alleviated in mice treated with Goreisan. Renal fibrosis was induced by FA administration and inhibited by Goreisan treatment.
Conclusion: Goreisan may have a novel preventive effect against inflammation, oxidative stress, and fibrosis, contributing to innovation in the treatment of CKD.