Quercetin and vitamin C co-therapy preserves renal function and electrolyte balance in potassium bromate-induced nephrotoxicity

Abstract

Background: Amajor constituent of most ethno-medicinal plants is flavonoid. Today, over 600 flavonoids have been isolated and studied across different systems. Aim and Objectives: This study investigated the protective effects of quercetin (a major flavonoid) and vitamin C, both individually and in combination, on renal function, oxidative stress, inflammation, and electrolyte homeostasis in potassium bromate (KBrO₃)-induced nephrotoxicity. Material and Methods: Adult male Wistar rats were divided into control, KBrO₃-only, and treatment groups receiving quercetin (40 or 80 mg/kg), vitamin C (10 mg/kg), or a combination, for 21 days post-KBrO₃ administration. Renal function markers, oxidative stress indices, inflammatory cytokines, electrolyte levels, and histopathology were assessed. Correlation analyses explored mechanistic relationships. Results: KBrO₃ induced significant renal impairment, oxidative damage, pro-inflammatory cytokine elevation, and electrolyte imbalance. Treatments, particularly quercetin 80 mg/kg and quercetin 40 mg/kg plus vitamin C, significantly restored glomerular filtration rate, antioxidant enzyme activity, and electrolyte balance, while reducing malondialdehyde and TNF-α levels. Correlations revealed inverse relationships between malondialdehyde and renal function/antioxidant markers, and between TNF-α and antioxidant capacity. Histology confirmed preserved tubular integrity in treated groups. Conclusion: Quercetin and vitamin C exhibit dose-dependent, synergistic nephroprotection against KBrO₃ toxicity via antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and electrolyte-stabilizing mechanisms.