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Abstract: FR-PO0504

Lime Extract Reduces Albuminuria and Protects Kidney Function in Diabetic Kidney Disease

Session Information

Category: Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic Health

  • 602 Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic Health: Clinical

Authors

  • Dissayabutra, Thasinas, Chulalongkorn University Faculty of Medicine, Bangkok, Thailand
  • Srisawat, Nattachai, Chulalongkorn University Faculty of Medicine, Bangkok, Thailand
  • Tosukhowong, Piyaratana, Chulalongkorn University Faculty of Medicine, Bangkok, Thailand

Group or Team Name

  • Center of Excellence on Kidney-Liver-Microbiota
Background

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a common microvascular complication of diabetes and a leading cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease globally. Albuminuria is a key marker of kidney damage and disease progression. Citrus fruits, especially lime (Citrus aurantifolia), contain bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, polyphenols, and vitamin C, which have antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and vascular protective effects. This study evaluated the potential kidney-protective effects of a standardized lime extract on albuminuria and renal injury.

Methods

An experimental study was conducted using diabetic Wistar rats induced by streptozotocin and a high-fat diet. Rats were treated with lime extract (0.6 g/day) for 12 weeks. In parallel, a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial was performed in patients with type 2 diabetes and CKD. A total of 59 participants were assigned to either a placebo group (15 g maltodextrin; n=31) or a lime extract group (15 g/day; n=28) for 6 months.

Results

In diabetic rats, lime extract improved insulin resistance, reduced urinary albumin excretion, and preserved kidney function without affecting blood glucose levels or causing toxicity. In the clinical study, patients receiving lime extract showed a significant 29.6% reduction in urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR), while no significant change was observed in the placebo group. Serum protein carbonyl levels, as a marker of oxidative stress, were also reduced. No adverse effects were detected in kidney function, electrolytes, or insulin resistance indices.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that lime-derived bioactive compounds may provide a safe and effective adjunct therapy for mitigating albuminuria and preserving renal function in patients with diabetic kidney disease.

Acknowledgment

This research was supported by the Ratchadapiseksompotch Fund, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University (grant number CU_GR_63_114_30_21 and RA-MF-34/64), and the Thematic Innovation Fund, National Innovation Agency, Thailand (grant number PE0108-02-63-06-0222).