ABSTRACT:
Polysaccharide is widely distributed around the world and rapidly garnered attention in biotechnology. Noni fruit (Morinda citrifolia) has been acknowledged for its usefulness in promoting health, and this natural polysaccharide is relatively safe compared to another source like bacteria or synthesis1,2. In the previous study, SPF syrup formula, which can increase the activity of macrophages and lymphocyte proliferation, had been successfully developed3. Therefore, it is necessary to elucidate the molecular mechanism of Standardized Polysaccharide Fraction (SPF) syrup on related cytokines (IL-2 and IFN-?) and its safety by evaluating the histology of spleen and skin allergy potency. The SPF syrup is prepared according to the previous research method3,4. Wistar rats aged 9-10 weeks were used in this study. SPF syrup was given in 3 different dosages (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg body weight). Cytokines level was evaluated using FineTest® ELISA kit. Hematoxylin-eosin stain was used for spleen histology, while toluidine blue stain was used to evaluate skin allergy potency mediated by mast cell degranulation. Results indicated that SPF syrup dosage 100 mg/kg body weight can modulate cytokines by increasing IFN-? level. There is a decreasing tendency for IL-2 level, although not statistically significant. Histological evaluation showed that SPF syrup was safe to use based on histology of rat spleen organ and skin allergy potency mediated by mast cell degranulation.