Study on the influence of caffeic acid against sodium valproate–induced nephrotoxicity in rats

Renal injury is a hallmark adverse reaction to sodium valproate (SVP), and caffeic acid (CAFF) is a phenolic compound that has anti‐inflammatory and antioxsidant properties. So, this investigation was assessed to evaluate the nephrotoxic potential of SVP and the defensive impact of CAFF against SVP nephrotoxicity. SVP was given at a dose of 500 mg/kg (i.p.) once daily for 2 weeks, while CAFF was given at a dose of 50 mg/kg (orally), simultaneously with SVP. Concurrent treatment with CAFF reduced urea and creatinine, lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α), interferon gamma (IFN‐γ), nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB/p65), and transforming growth factor β (TGF‐β) levels. However, with increased glutathione content, CAFF also halted the activated Notch signaling cascade. Furthermore, CAFF suppressed caspase‐3 and inducible nitric oxide synthase expressions. To conclude, on the basis of the results obtained, CAFF proved to protect against SVP‐induced nephrotoxicity via its antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and antiapoptotic properties.