Abstract
BACKGROUND: Sacha inchi (Plukenetia volubilis) seed is a rich source of polyunsaturated fatty acids, 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 1,000 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 1,000 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 < 0.05), with the highest levels recorded in the untreated group (G2), followed by the 250 mg/kg body weight therapy group (G3). The mice in the groups treated with 500 mg/kg body weight (G4) and 1,000 mg/kg body weight (G5) showed a decrease, and the value was even close to the control group (G1). However, no significant changes in Il-6 levels were observed across the groups. CONCLUSION: Sacha inchi seed oil has the potential to modulate the immune response of P. berghei-infected mice through the inhibition of parasite growth and reduction of the proinflammatory cytokine levels Il-12 and Il-8, depending on the dose. A dose of 500 mg/kg body weight effectively reduced parasite growth and the levels of observed proinflammatory cytokines.