Abstract

Podocyte injury is a common pathological feature of kidney diseases and contributes to renal dysfunction. Shen Qi Wan, a traditional Chinese medicine formulation, has been used for centuries in the management of kidney diseases. This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of Shen Qi Wan on adenine-induced podocyte injury. In vitro experiments were conducted using cultured podocytes exposed to adenine, while in vivo experiments utilized an adenine-induced podocyte injury animal model. The viability, morphology, and function of podocytes were assessed, along with renal function, histopathological changes, and molecular markers of podocyte injury. The results showed that Shen Qi Wan treatment significantly improved podocyte viability, preserved podocyte morphology, and enhanced podocyte function in vitro. In the animal model, Shen Qi Wan administration attenuated renal dysfunction, ameliorated histopathological changes, and reduced molecular markers of podocyte injury. These findings demonstrate the protective effect of Shen Qi Wan on adenine-induced podocyte injury, highlighting its potential therapeutic application in kidney diseases.