Inflammation is a reaction of the body whenever the integrity of its morphological and biological constants is threatened. All diseases affecting the great vital functions imply in their manifestation inflammation mediators. For the treatment, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and glucocorticoids are used. Although efficient, NSAIDs most often have side effects that hinder their long-term use. In Burkina Faso, medicinal plants combining anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities could be an alternative in anti-inflammatory therapy. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of aquous extract of Sarcocephalus latifolius on gentamicin induced nephrotoxicity in experimental animal models.
Methodology: Nephrotoxicity was induced in wistar rats by intraperitoneal injection of gentamicin (80 mg/kg). The effects of S. latifolius by oral administration during 8 consecutive days with the doses of 100, 250, and 500 mg/kg were evaluated on renal and oxidative markers.
Results: Gentamicin was induced nephrotoxicity marked by biochemical changes, increased lipid peroxidation and reduced antioxidant enzyme activity in renal tissues. Aqueous extracts of S. latifolius were showed a nephroprotective effect by decreasing elevated urea, uric acid, albumin, creatinine, total protein and blood glucose levels and normalized serum Na+, K+, Cl-, Ca2+, Mg2+ and PO42- electrolyte levels in gentamicin intoxicated rats. The extracts were significantly increased the activities of renal antioxidant enzymes (catalase, glutathione) in gentamicin intoxicated rats.
Conclusion: These studies give strong support to the hypothesis that S. latifolius fruits extracts have nephroprotective activity against gentamicin- induced acute nephritis in rats. S. latifolius can therefore be used in preventive applications.

Nephrotoxicity, Gentamicin, Sarcocephalus latifolius, Electrolytes, Oxidative stress