The role of Quercetin in the treatment of kidney diseases: A comprehensive review

Abstract

Kidney diseases resulting from genetic predisposition, immune dysfunction, hypertension, diabetes, malignancies, hyperuricemia, and unhealthy lifestyle factors are garnering increasing attention due to the essential role of the kidney in maintaining systemic homeostasis. Quercetin (QCT), a polyhydroxy flavonoid abundantly present in the flowers, leaves, and fruits of numerous plants, including over 100 species of Chinese herbs such as Sophora japonica and Tansy, exhibits diverse biological activities and significant medicinal properties. These properties include antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, hypoglycemic, antihypertensive, immunomodulatory, and cardiovascular protective effects. QCT, generally recognized as safe, confers multiple health benefits, particularly in managing cardiovascular disorders, chronic bronchitis, hypertension, diabetes, and cancer. However, excessive intake may result in side effects. Notably, QCT has demonstrated efficacy in alleviating renal parenchymal injury and fibrosis, and it plays a pivotal role in treating diabetic nephropathy and cardiovascular diseases. • QCT mitigates AKI and renal fibrosis through anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and ferroptosis-inhibitory mechanisms. • QCT attenuates inflammation, oxidative stress, and fibrotic in diabetic nephropathy, thereby preserving renal function. • QCT's poor oral bioavailability from low solubility is overcome by nanoparticle formulations that boost stability and delivery. • QCT exhibits low toxicity, with a high LD 50 in rats (> 6000 mg/kg) and moderate toxicity in mice (160 mg/kg). • QCT nanoparticles improve solubility and facilitate targeted renal delivery, enhancing therapeutic efficacy.

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