Protective role of hydroalcoholic extract of Ficus carica in gentamicin induced nephrotoxicity in rats

Abstract

Gentamicin (GM)-induced nephrotoxicity limits its long-term clinical use. Several agents/strategies were attempted to prevent GM nephrotoxicity but were not found suitable for clinical practice. Hydroalcohalic extract of ficus carica (HEFC) retard the progression of certain types of cancers, cardiovascular and renal disorders. We aimed to evaluate protective effect of HEFC on GM-induced renal proximal tubular damage. The rats were pre-fed experimental diets for 8 days and then received GM (100 mg/kg body weight/day) treatment for 8 days while still on diet. Serum parameters, oxidative stress in rat kidney were analyzed. GM nephrotoxicity was recorded by increased serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen. GM increased MDA level whereas decreased catalase, reduced glutathione. In contrast, HEFC alone increased CAT concentration, GSH content and decreased MDA level. HEFC supplementation ameliorated GM-induced specific metabolic alterations and oxidative damage due to its intrinsic biochemical/antioxidant properties.