Background:
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a progressive global health issue marked by
impaired kidney function and metabolic disturbances. A key complication of CKD
is the disruption of calcium and vitamin D balance. Declining kidney function
limits the activation of vitamin D, causing hypocalcemia and related
complications. Chronic Kidney Disease–Mineral and Bone Disorder (CKD-MBD)
commonly arises in CKD, characterized by abnormal mineral metabolism, bone
turnover, and vascular calcification, significantly increasing risks of
cardiovascular disease and mortality. Recently, plant-based therapies like
Moringa oleifera, rich in polyphenols and flavonoids with antioxidant and
anti-inflammatory effects, have gained attention for their potential to improve
calcium regulation. This study evaluated the effect of vitamin D and the ethyl
acetate fraction of Moringa oleifera leaves on serum calcium levels in a CKD
rat model.Methods:
This experimental study involved 25 male white rats (Rattus norvegicus) divided
into five groups (n=5 per group): negative control (normal/NC), positive
control (CKD-induced/PC), and three CKD-induced treatment groups (P1, P2, P3).
P1 received vitamin D (72 IU/200g/day), P2 received Moringa oleifera extract
(20 mg/200g/day), and P3 received both treatments. CKD was induced via
unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO), followed by 10 days of induction and 20
days of treatment. Serum calcium was measured using spectrophotometry (CPC
method). Statistical analysis determined differences among groups and the
impact of treatments.Results:
CKD induction significantly reduced serum calcium levels compared to normal
controls. Treatment with vitamin D moderately increased calcium levels, while
Moringa oleifera extract alone led to a slightly higher increase. The
combination treatment showed the greatest improvement, with calcium levels
nearing normal values. All treatment groups had significantly higher calcium
levels than the untreated CKD group, with the combined therapy being the most
effective.Conclusion:
Vitamin D and Moringa oleifera extract effectively improved serum calcium
levels in CKD rats. Their combination produced the strongest effect, suggesting
a synergistic benefit. This supports the potential integration of conventional
and plant-based therapies for managing calcium imbalance in CKD-MBD
Keywords:
Moringa oleifera, CKD-MBD, Calcium, Vitamin D