NKD2 and renal fibrosis: MZGCY was found to improve mitochondrial edema and alleviate mitochondrial damage, possibly associated with the effects of Oroxylin A. Rhein, the primary active component of Rhubarb, can significantly enhance renal function and reverse markers of renal fibrosis such as FN1, collagen αI, α-SMA, NF-κB, and NKD2, effectively inhibiting the production of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β, while suppressing NF-κB activation and NKD2 expression (65), aligning with the findings of this study.