Biol. Pharm. Bull. 28(5) 919—920 (2005)

life-changing complications in virtually every system of the body. Several candidate mechanisms contributing to diabetic complications have been proposed. These mechanisms are accepted widely and include the polyol pathway and glycation. Furthermore, the hyperaggregability of platelets, as well as their hypercoagulability in diabetic patients has also been reported. We previously reported the effectivity of Chinese crude drugs, marine algae and traditional Turkish folk medicines against these risk factors. In this research we focused on effectivity of the style of Zea mays L. (Gramineae) on diabetic nephropathy. The style of Z. mays is commonly known as corn silk and has been used in folk medicine as a decoction for diuretic treatment in Japan and China. We earlier reported the isolation of new flavone C-glycosides from this material. In one dictionary on traditional Chinese medicines the anti-hyperglycemic effect and its improvement of chronic nephropathy of this material were also described. However, there is a lack of reliable data to explain these effects. The kidneys are vital for ridding the body of toxic waste products, and maintaining fluid, mineral and electrolytes at levels compatible with life. Elevated blood glucose can damage the cells and micro blood vessels of the kidney. Advanced kidney damage results in the need for artificial filtration of the blood by dialysis and potentially the need for a kidney transplant.