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&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.