Ultrasound-Assisted Moringa Leaf Extracts: Phytochemical Profile, Biological Activities, Functional Properties and Protective Effects Against Gentamicin- Induced Nephrotoxicity

Moringa oleifera is rich in bioactive compounds with therapeutic properties. It could be may help renal protection against gentamicin (GN) side effects. This study inquired into the eco-friendly hydroethanolic extraction of bioactive components from Moringa leaves utilizing 50% (MU-50) and 70% (MU-70). The extracts were characterized and quantified using FTIR, GC-MS, and HPLC. Additionally, this study investigated their protective effects on gentamicin-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity in albino rats, as well as explored their potential as functional additives in orange juice. MU-50 was 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, 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. In vivo study showed that, MU-50 at 400 ppm reduced urea, creatinine, malondialdehyde (MDA), and nitrite levels in the kidney as well as liver enzyme levels plus restoring superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity compared with gentamicin group. Additionally, it improved significantly ( p>0.05 ) the physicochemical, phytochemical parameters, and 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 .