EMERGENT LIFE SCIENCES RESEARCH - Vol 9, Issue 2, Published on 31, December 2023

Pages: 340-348
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Assessment of in vitro anti-urolithiasis potential of Berberis aristata DC.

Author: Sonu Ambwani, Rashmi Goswami, Nandita Fuloria, Roopali Tandon, Tanuj Kumar Ambwani

Category: Research Article

Abstract:

Urolithiasis is a highly prevalent and excruciating urological condition characterized by the accumulation of stones within the urinary system's walls. Kidney stones also referred to as nephrolithiasis, urolithiasis, or ureterolithiasis, are classified based on their specific location within the urinary system. Traditional approaches to manage urolithiasis include allopathic medications, surgical interventions, and shockwave lithotripsy, all of which are associated with various side effects. Due to these associated drawbacks, increased focus on exploring natural medicine for both prevention and management of urolithiasis has taken momentum. Anti-urolithiatic activity encompasses the capacity of specific plants and their extracts to prevent or alleviate urolithiasis, commonly known as kidney stones. Throughout various cultures, numerous plants have traditionally been employed as natural interventions to ward off or address kidney stones. One such potential herbal plant for the management of urolithiasis is Berberis aristata (Indian barberry or Tree Turmeric) which is known for its use in the management of urolithiasis in folk medicine. This plant is notably rich in alkaloids, with berberine being the primary alkaloid that contributes to its antioxidant as well as anti-inflammatory effects. In the present in vitro study, aqueous root extract of Berberis aristata (BAE) at varying concentrations, was examined for its effectiveness in preventing the formation of calcium oxalate crystals when introduced alongside the extract. The results revealed the effectiveness of the extract in preventing crystallization, suggesting its potential utility in managing urinary stone formation. Nevertheless, further investigation is required, particularly in suitable animal models, to comprehensively assess the anti-urolithiatic activity of Berberis aristata.

Keywords: aggregation assay, calcium oxalate, simultaneous flow static model, urolithiasis

DOI URL: https://doi.org/10.31783/elsr.2023.92340348