Abstract

Abstract:
Sacha inchi (Plukenetia volubilis) seed is a rich source of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), namely omega-3 and omega-6, which provide various health benefits, especially in the prevention of inflammatory diseases. Malaria, caused by Plasmodium species, triggers inflammasome activation, leading to the release of proinflammatory cytokines.

Aim:
This study aimed to reveal the immunomodulatory potential effect of Sacha inchi seed oil (SISO) on parasite growth and proinflammatory cytokine expression (Interleukin-6, Il-8, and Il-12) in Plasmodium berghei-infected mice.

Methods:
Twenty-five BALB/c mice were divided into five groups,including the control group (G1), infected and untreated group (G2), and three infected groups treated with SISO at doses of 250 mg/kg body weight (G3), 500 mg/kg body weight (G4), and 1000 mg/kg body weight (G5). Parasitemia levels were determined by calculating the percentage of infected red blood cells, whereas cytokine levels were measured using ELISA.

Results:
SISO treatment significantly reduced parasite growth in the 500 mg/kg body weight (18.12%) and 1000 mg/kg body weight (17.12%) groups compared with the untreated group (30.18%). Levels of Il-8 and Il-12 showed significant differences (p

Key words: Immunomodulatory, Malaria, Parasite growth, Proinflammatory cytokines, Sacha inchi seed oil