Role of Polyphenol in Diabetic Nephropathy

What is it about?

Diabetic Nephropathy (DN) is known as one of the driving sources of End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). DN prevalence continues to increase in every corner of the world andthat has been a major concern to healthcare professionals as DN is the key driver of Diabetes Mellitus (DM) morbidity and mortality. Hyperglycaemia is closely connected with the production of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) that cause oxidative stress response as well as numerous cellular and molecular modifications. Oxidative stress is a significant causative factor to renal damage, as it can activate other immunological pathways, such as inflammatory, fibrosis, and apoptosis pathways. These pathways can lead to cellular impairment and death as well as cellular senescence. Natural substances containing bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, have been reported to exert valuable effects on various pathological conditions, including DM. The role of polyphenols in alleviating DN conditions has been documented in many studies. In this review, the potential of polyphenols in ameliorating the progression of DN via modulation of oxidative stress, inflammation, fibrosis, and apoptosis, as well as cellular senescence, has been addressed. This information may be used as the strategies for the management of DN and development as nutraceutical products to overcome DN development.

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Photo by Alexandr Podvalny on Unsplash

Photo by Alexandr Podvalny on Unsplash

Why is it important?

DN is one of the DM complications caused by oxidative stress, inflammation, fibrosis, and apoptosis pathways. Hyperglycaemia will cause an imbalance of antioxidants and free radicals and consequently lead to oxidative stress. Discovery of new successful therapeutic interventions is indeed required. In the last few decades, consumers’ interest in the usage of natural products has been growing. Polyphenols are recognised among numerous bioactive compounds as a remarkable source with a diverse composition. Studies have shown that polyphenols can protect DN by preventing oxidative stress, inflammation, fibrosis, and apoptosis. Polyphenols could be incorporated as adjuvant therapy for the management of DN. Therefore, the therapeutic approach in limiting diabetic conditions may curb the development and progression of DN. Even though polyphenol is a potential candidate to be developed as senotherapy, the study that correlates with cellular senescence and polyphenol in DN is still scarce.