Protective Effect of <i>Fumaria</i> Extract on Molecular and Histological Damage and Oxidative Stress Induced by Ischemia/Reperfusion in Adult Rat Kidneys

Objectives: Ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury significantly contributes to kidney damage, often leading to oxidative stress and molecular disruption. This study aims to explore the protective effects of Fumaria extract on oxidative stress, histological damage, and molecular alterations in the kidneys of adult rats subjected to I/R injury. Materials and Methods: Thirty-two male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to four groups: Sham, I/R, I/R with Fumaria extract (IRF), and Fumaria only (F). The experimental groups received either saline or Fumaria extract (250 mg/kg) orally for four weeks. Subsequently, a right nephrectomy was performed, followed by a 45-minute clamping of the left renal artery and 24 hours of reperfusion. Renal function was assessed by measuring serum creatinine (Cr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels. Oxidative stress markers, including catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA) activities, were evaluated. Histological damage was analyzed using H&amp;E staining, and changes in gene expression were also examined. Results: Fumaria extract significantly lowered serum Cr and BUN levels in the IRF group compared to the I/R group. It also reduced oxidative stress by enhancing CAT and SOD activities while decreasing MDA levels. Histopathological analysis revealed less tissue damage in the IRF group. Gene expression studies indicated a protective molecular effect of Fumaria extract. Conclusions: Fumaria extract protects against I/R-induced kidney injury in rats by improving renal function, reducing oxidative stress, and mitigating both molecular and histological damage. These findings suggest its potential as a therapeutic agent for kidney I/R injury.