Renoprotective effect of Capsicum annum against ethanol‐induced oxidative stress and renal apoptosis

The present study explored the ameliorative potency of aqueous extract of Capsicum annum (AqCA), against oxidative imbalance and renal toxicity induced by ethanol. Randomly grouped male Wistar rats (n = 6), were marked as ethanol‐treated (2 g/kg bw, i.p.), CA₁₂₅ (125 mg/kg bw, i.p.), CA₂₅₀ (250 mg/kg bw, i.p.), ethanol pre‐treated with CA (similar doses), and control (0.5 ml normal saline, i.p.), and treated for 30 consecutive days. Biochemical analysis of tissue and serum parameters was performed, along with histopathological and histochemical studies. Also, we performed TUNEL assay and western blotting for our experimental groups. Statistical analysis revealed significant (p ≤ .001) alteration in the levels of antioxidant enzymes, serum urea, creatinine, pro‐inflammatory cytokines, and cleaved caspases, along with histopathological alterations in the ethanol‐treated group. Prior treatment with AqCA prevented ethanol‐induced alterations in tissue and serum parameters. These findings indicate that the extract of CA can protect renal cells from ethanol‐induced damage by inhibiting oxidative stress, inflammatory response, and apoptosis. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Chronic alcohol consumption is a major public health concern that leads to various diseases and social problems as well. It affects both the affluent and non‐affluent society equally. Alcohol (ethanol) is a renowned hepato‐toxicant and a well‐documented risk factor for oxidative stress, with less known effect on the kidney. Thus, it is essential to investigate the effect of alcohol metabolism on the kidney to find a remedy to prevent it. The present investigation depicts the anti‐oxidative and anti‐inflammatory role of Capsicum annum against ethanol‐induced renal damage. The outcome of this study can be utilized in the future for phytotherapeutic herbal drug formulation. Besides, the bioactive components identified in the study can be further explored by researchers or pharmaceutical corporates for potential therapeutic purpose against renal impairment.