Exploring hydrophilic and lipophilic components of Ceterach officinarum Willd. in calcium oxalate crystal transformation for renal protection

This study investigates the aqueous extract of Ceterach officinarum (Co-AE) for its potential to regulate calcium oxalate crystallization, a key factor in kidney stone formation. Fractionation of Co-AE into hydrophilic and lipophilic components revealed their synergic roles in inhibiting calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM) crystal formation while promoting calcium oxalate dihydrate (COD) crystals. Time-resolved light scattering revealed that high molecular weight fractions (Co-CONC) were highly effective in inhibiting COM formation, achieving an EC of 0.3 ± 0.1 µg/mL. Conversely, low molecular weight fractions (Co-UF) demonstrated limited efficacy. Analytical techniques including Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and mass spectrometry identified key active components, including polysaccharides and lipids. Polysaccharides and lipids, particularly waxes and phthalates, displayed significant activity in reducing crystal size and inducing COD formation influencing crystal morphology. Additionally, Co-AE and its fractions exhibited robust antioxidant and iron-chelating capacities, as demonstrated by DPPH and ORAC assays. The iron-chelating activity of phenolic compounds, including chlorogenic acid, may further contribute to reducing oxidative stress and modifying crystal growth pathways. This research highlights the synergistic effects of polysaccharides and lipids in Co-AE, providing new insights into its mechanistic role in kidney stone prevention. The findings suggest that Co-AE holds promise as a natural therapeutic agent, with further studies needed to explore its clinical applications.