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    Is aristolochic acid nephropathy a widespread problem in developing countries? A case study of Aristolochia indica L. in Bangladesh using an ethnobotanical - phytochemical approach

    Michl, J. and Jennings, H.M. and Kite, G.C. and Ingrouille, Martin J. and Simmonds, M.S.J. and Heinrich, M. (2013) Is aristolochic acid nephropathy a widespread problem in developing countries? A case study of Aristolochia indica L. in Bangladesh using an ethnobotanical - phytochemical approach. Journal of Ethnopharmacology 149 (1), pp. 235-244. ISSN 0378-8741.

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    Abstract

    Ethnopharmacological relevance: Species of Aristolochia are associated with aristolochic acid nephropathy (AAN), a renal interstitial fibrosis and upper urinary tract cancer (UUC). Aristolochic acid nephropathy has been reported in ten countries but its true incidence is unknown and most likely underestimated. By combining an ethnobotanical and phytochemical approach we provide evidence for the risk of AAN occurring in Bangladesh. More specifically, we assess the intra-specific variation of aristolochic acid analogues in medicinally used A. indica samples from Bangladesh. Materials and Methods: Ethnobotanical information was collected from 16 kavirajes (traditional healers) in different study locations in Bangladesh. Plant samples were obtained from native habitats, botanical gardens, herbal markets and pharmaceutical companies. The samples were extracted using 70% methanol and were analysed using LC-DAD-MS and 1H-NMR. Results: Roots as well as leaves are commonly used for symptoms such as snake bites and sexual problems. Among the informants knowledge about toxicity or side effects is very limited and A. indica is often administered in very high doses. Replacement of A. indica with other medicinal plants such as Rauvolfia serpentina (L.) Benth. ex Kurz was common. A. indica samples contained a variety of aristolochic acid analogues such as aristolochic acid I, aristolochic acid II, cepharadione A and related compounds. Conclusions: AAN cases are likely to occur in Bangladesh and more awareness needs to be raised about the health risks associated with the use of A. indica and other species of Aristolochia as herbal medicines.

    Metadata

    Item Type: Article
    Keyword(s) / Subject(s): Metabolomics, Aristolochic acid, Toxicity, Kidney, Bangladesh, Aristolochia indica
    School: Birkbeck Faculties and Schools > Faculty of Science > School of Natural Sciences
    Depositing User: Administrator
    Date Deposited: 25 Jun 2013 08:52
    Last Modified: 02 Aug 2023 17:05
    URI: https://eprints.bbk.ac.uk/id/eprint/7561

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