Ultrasound assisted extraction enhances phytochemical profile and functional properties of moringa leaf extract with protection against gentamicin induced nephrotoxicity

Moringa oleifera is a rich source of therapeutic bioactive compounds, which may protect renal function against gentamicin (GN) induced toxicity. This study applied green hydroethanolic extraction utilizing 50% (MU-50) and 70% (MU-70) to obtain bioactive compounds from Moringa leaves. The extracts were characterized and quantified using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Additionally, this study investigated their hepato-renal protection against gentamicin toxicity alongside their suitability for orange juice fortification. MU-50 exhibited stronger antioxidant activity (IC₅₀ = 46.72 µg/mL) and higher phenolic (15.42 ± 0.9 mg GAE/g) and flavonoid (107 ± 0.07 µg QE/g) content compared to MU-70. FTIR analysis identified functional groups such as phenols, alkanes, ethers, esters, aromatic compounds, C-Br, and nitro compounds. GC-MS analysis identified several compounds for the first time in MU-50, including 9-oxabicyclo (3,3,1) nonan-2-one desulphosinigrin and 2-aminoethanethiol hydrogen sulfate. HPLC revealed higher concentrations of nineteen key phenolic compounds in MU-50, including chlorogenic acid, pyrocatechol and gallic acid, compared to MU-70. An in vivo study demonstrated that MU-50 at 400 ppm effectively reduced urea, creatinine, malondialdehyde (MDA), and nitrite levels in both the kidney and liver, while also restoring superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, compared to the gentamicin group. Additionally, it significantly improved (p > 0.05) the physicochemical and phytochemical parameters, as well as microbial stability, while maintaining sensory acceptability in orange juice. The results highlighted that incorporating these eco-friendly hydroethanolic extracts could be a strategic move for food and beverage manufacturers as natural therapeutic agents against drug-induced toxicity.