Effect of Melinjo Seed Extract on GSH Levels of Hyperuricemic Wistar Rats

Abstract

Background: Hyperuricemia is a condition where uric acid levels are above normal. The biosynthesis of uric acid by the enzyme xanthine oxidase (XO) produces free radicals that cause oxidative stress. Oxidative stress lowers cellular GSH levels. Gnetum gnemon L. or melinjo seeds contain stilbenoids and flavonoids that can act as natural XO inhibitors. Objective: To study the effect of melinjo seed extract on GSH levels.Methods: This research was a true experimental with pre and post-test controlled group design. Thirty six male wistar rats were randomly divided into 6 groups consisting of a healthy control (KS), negative control (K1), positive control (K2), treatment 1 (P1) extract 250 mg/kgBW, treatment 2 (P2) extract 500 mg/kgBW, treatment 3 (P3) extract 2000 mg/kgBW. Hyperuricemia was induced by the administration of Maggie® block broth and potassium oxonate. Measurement was carried out on the 21st and 35th day of treatment, then analyzed using Paired-Sample T Test, continued with One-Way Anova test and Post Hoc LSD test. Results: Administration of melinjo seed extract at P1, P2, and P3 significantly increased GSH levels (P<0.05) from 1.23±0.10 to 1.55±0.16; 1.22±0.06 to 1.73±0.16; and 1.21±0.08 to 1.88±0.08. There was significant difference between the three doses with a dose of 250 mg/kgBW melinjo seed extract being more effective than allopurinol 90 mg/kgBW. Conclusion: Melinjo seed extract could increase GSH levels with the most effective dose of 250 mg/kgBB.