Role of zinc and vitamin D in modulating diabetic nephropathy in experimental models

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) manifests itself in consistently high blood glucose concentrations as a result of insufficient insulin secretion, action, or both. This can result in long-term complications, including diabetic nephropathy (DN). The aim of this study was to examine the impact of a four-week administration of zinc sulfate (Zn) and vitamin D (Vit D) in controlling glycemia and preventing renal damage in an experimental model of DM. Material and methods: A total of 55 rats, each weighing between 100 and 150 grams, were grouped into 11 groups: diabetic control rats, healthy control rats, and diabetic rats that had received Zn, Vit D and metformin as reference medication before and after alloxan injection. Results: DM induced by alloxan led to notable rises in blood urea nitrogen, creatinine and uric acid concentrations. Moreover, it caused damage to kidney tissues, with severe morphological damage in the renal tissues of diabetic rats. Elevated levels of kidney function markers and other biochemical parameters were decreased by administering zinc and Vit D, but Zn produced the greatest reduction. Additionally, histopathological examination of the excised kidneys revealed increased protection following supplementation. Conclusions: The findings of this study suggest that Zn and Vit D are effective in managing DM and protecting against DN.