Effects of black mulberry molasses on gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats

Aim: The kidneys are one of the target organs of drug-induced toxicity. This study aimed to investigate the possible protective effects of the black mulberry plant, which has antioxidant effects according to the available data and is used in traditional folk medicine, on the kidneys in rats with a gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity model. Material and Method: An experimental model with six groups was created by using 48 rats in total for two different doses of black mulberry molasses whose pharmaceutical composition was analyzed. The experiment was completed, and the serum BUN and creatinine levels were measured. The oxidant/antioxidant and anti-inflammatory biochemical markers MDA, GPX, GSH, CAT, SOD, TAS, TOS, OSI, TNF-α and IL-6 were studied in kidney tissues. Results: Serum BUN and creatinine values used in the clinical follow-up of acute renal failure were increased in the injury group; It was determined that it decreased in the damage groups given molasses. When we look at biochemical oxidative stress markers, it was observed that GSH, SOD, CAT, GPx and TAS values decreased in the damage group and increased in the molasses-given groups. It was observed that MDA, TOS and OSI levels increased in the damage group and decreased again in the groups given molasses. There was no change in TNF-α level related to the inflammatory state was observed. Inflammation was also suppressed with IL-6 level black mulberry molasses. This situation was also supported histopathologically. Conclusion: According to our results, it was seen that gentamicin-related damage occurred, and black mulberry molasses reduced the level of oxidative stress, thus reducing organ damage and loss of function. In addition, it was concluded that further studies at the molecular level should be conducted to reveal the mechanism underlying the protective effect and to clarify the dose issue, as it can form the basis for clinical studies. Keywords: Acute kidney injury, antioxidants, oxidative stress, rat