Water Extract of Arabic Gum Ameliorates the Gentamicin-Induced Nephrotoxicity, Hepatotoxicity, Oxidative Stress Markers andCytokine Levels in Mice

Abstract

Arabic gum is a natural exudate from Acacia trees, primarily composed of arabinogalactan, water soluble plan product that is rich in many important elements for the human body health such as K+, Mg2+ Ca2+ and others. The aim of this study is to investigate the beneficial effect of water extract of Arabic gum on the nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity induced by gentamicin. Forty mice were used to conduct this study which divided into five groups. The effects of the Arabic gum on the kidney and liver functions were estimated by investigating their function markers (AST, ALT, creatinine, urea). Oxidative stress was also investigated in liver tissues. The current results showed that gentamicin caused a state of hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity denoted by increasing liver enzymes AST and ALT, creatinine, urea, increased level of oxidative stress markers MDA, GSH and CAT and levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor alpha and Interleukin 6 (TNF-α and IL-6).and anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-4 and IL-10, while the water extract of Arabic gum reduced the oxidative stress that increased by gentamicin. Arabic gum extract also found to modulate the kidney and liver function mediated by liver enzymes (AST and ALT) and kidney function markers, creatinine and urea. Results also stated that Arabic gum extract adjust the gentamicin-induced inflammation by regulating the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNF-α, and anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-4 and IL-10. The current study suggested that Arabic gum can be added to the food as food supplements. However, further studies should be conducted for the approval of its safety.