Use of humic acids in the treatment of genitourinary diseases

Abstract

Currently, diseases of the urogenital system has acquired medical and social importance. This is primarily due to the significant prevalence of this group of diseases in the structure of general morbidity, disability, and mortality and their frequent recurrence and effect on the somatic and emotional state of the patient. In addition to socio-demographic problems, urogenital disorders have significant economic consequences. The total annual costs of treating uronephrological diseases, including accompanying therapy, are estimated at 40 billion US dollars. However, according to expert forecasts, by 2030, the prevalence of this group of diseases is expected to increase by 25%, as well as direct costs of disease treatment and indirect costs associated with partial or total disability due to disease development and premature death. Thus, searching for and developing new drugs for the treatment of diseases of the urogenital organs are crucial. Chemical compounds, potentially significant in this aspect, can be obtained by organic synthesis and isolated from natural sources. Thus, exploring the potential of natural compounds that have high biological activity and favorable safety profile is a significant reason to realize and address this issue. An interesting but understudied groups of natural compounds of plant origin are humic substances. Recent preclinical studies have shown that they are able to exert antitumor, nephroprotective, and diuretic effects and exhibit antibacterial and antifungal properties. This review aimed to summarize and systematize currently available information on the known pharmacological effects and possible mechanisms of action of humic acids and the prospects for their use in the treatment and prevention of genitourinary diseases.