The Evaluating Nephrotoxic Effects of Gentamicin on Wister Rat

Background: Gentamicin, an aminoglycoside antibiotic, is widely used for severe bacterial infections but is limited by its nephrotoxic effects. This study investigates gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in Wistar rats across varying dosages.Methods: Eight male Wistar rats were divided into four groups. The control group (n=2) received no treatment. Group 1 (n=2) was administered 0.2 ml of 80 mg/kg gentamicin, Group 2 (n=2) received 0.4 ml of 80 mg/kg, and Group 3 (n=2) received 0.7 ml of 80 mg/kg, all intraperitoneally once daily for 30 days. Renal function was evaluated through serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and histopathological examination of kidney tissues. Oxidative stress markers and inflammatory cytokines were measured to explore nephrotoxicity mechanisms.Results: A dose-dependent increase in serum creatinine and BUN levels was observed in gentamicin-treated groups compared to controls, indicating renal impairment. Histopathological analysis revealed mild to moderate renal damage in Group 1, while Groups 2 and 3 exhibited significant tubular necrosis, glomerular congestion, and interstitial inflammation. Oxidative stress markers and pro-inflammatory cytokines were elevated in all treated groups, with the highest levels in Group 3, suggesting oxidative stress and inflammation as key contributors to nephrotoxicity.Conclusion: Gentamicin induces dose-dependent nephrotoxicity in Wistar rats, confirmed by biochemical, histopathological, and molecular evidence. These findings highlight the need for careful renal function monitoring during gentamicin therapy and suggest exploring nephroprotective strategies to enhance its safety. Future studies should focus on identifying agents to mitigate gentamicin-induced renal damage, ensuring safer clinical use.