Clinical application and mechanisms of action of Astragalus root in treating diabetic nephropathy

doi:10.3969/j.issn.1674-490X.2026.02.004

Abstract

Abstract: Developments on the clinical application and experimental studies of Astragalus root and its preparations(such as compound formulas, polysaccharides, astragaloside Ⅳ, injections)in the prevention and treatment of diabetic nephropathy(DN)are summarized. Improvements in clinical symptoms in DN patients, effective reductions in proteinuria levels and urinary albumin excretion rate(UAER), and improved renal function and metabolic disorders have been observed with Astragalus root, its compound formulas, or preparations, often serving as an adjuvant therapy to enhance overall therapeutic efficacy. Experimental research has shown that Astragalus root and its main active components Astragalus polysaccharide(APS), Astragaloside Ⅳ(AS-Ⅳ)exert renoprotective effects via multiple targets. The underlying mechanisms include alleviating oxidative stress, inhibiting inflammatory responses, reducing renal fibrosis, protecting podocytes, modulating endoplasmic reticulum(ER)stress, and improving mitochondrial function. Significant potential for Astragalus root as an adjuvant therapy in the comprehensive management of DN is suggested; however, its definitive efficacy requires confirmation through high-quality clinical trials, along with further elucidation of its mechanisms of action.

Key words: Astragalus root, diabetic nephropathy, mechanism of action, Astragalus polysaccharide, Astragaloside Ⅳ

CLC Number:

ZHENG Shaoyong. Clinical application and mechanisms of action of Astragalus root in treating diabetic nephropathy[J]. Journal of Hebei Medical College for Continuing Education, 2026, 43(2): 26-32.

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