Effects of algerian nettle (Urtica dioica L.) on benign prostatic hyperplasia and their mechanism of action elucidation: in vivo and in silico approaches

This study investigated the effect of Urtica dioica roots etheric extract (UDEE) on oxidative stress, and urine obstruction with histopathological examinations of prostatic and renal tissues,and suggests computational methods as a complementary method, to make a hypothesis on the overall effect of UDEE in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry was utilised to characterise UDEE.BPH was induced in rats through daily subcutaneous injections of testosterone propionate. Rats were also orally administered UDEE or a vehicle. After four weeks, prostate weight, urine output, and biochemical markers were evaluated. UDEE treatment demonstrated significant regression of prostatic enlargement, improved biochemical and histopathological characteristics, and regulation of antioxidant activity levels. Phytosteroids stand out, act by inhibiting 5 alpha-reductase and aromatase. This study provides an insight into treatment of BPH, demonstrating safety of this compound towards the kidney compared to finasteride without severe side effects.{Graphical Abstract}