Vol. 7, Issue 2, Part A (2025)

Gentamicin, while widely utilized for its efficacy against Gram-negative bacterial infections, is associated with kidney toxicity primarily driven by oxidative damage and inflammatory responses. This study explores the protective influence of Syzygium cumini fruit extract on renal injury induced by gentamicin in Wistar rats, particularly emphasizing alterations in the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway. All selected Wistar rats were divided into five (5) groups: a control group, a gentamicin received group, and two (2) treatment groups that received gentamicin combined with (200 mg/kg) and high (400 mg/kg) dose of S. cumini and one standard group. Biochemical profiling, tissue analysis, and molecular investigations collectively showed that S. cumini significantly improved kidney function and reduced markers of oxidative stress and inflammation. A notable increase in Nrf2 expression along with suppression of Keap1 expression indicated the activation of cellular antioxidant responses. These outcomes indicate the potential of S. cumini as a promising plant-based cure for protecting against drug-induced renal damage.