Abstract:
Abstract. Protein malnutrition may affect changes in morphology, neurochemistry,
neurogenesis and immune system in the brain. Pasak bumi is often used as an aphrodisiac which
is almost the same as Ginseng. The neurogenesis development can be stimulated by ginseng
extract intervention. This study aimed to prove the effect of pasak bumi on neurogenesis and
neuroinflammation in post-protein malnutrition rats. Experimental research design, rats were
divided into 6 groups: KN=normal rats+standard feed, P1=malnutrition rats+aquadest,
P2=malnutrition rats + 70% ethanol extract of pasak bumi (EPB) 7.5 mg/kg BW,
P3=malnutrition rats + EPB 15 mg/kg BW, P4=malnutrition rats + EPB 22.5 mg/kg BW,
P5=malnutrition rats + EPB 30 mg/kg BW. EPB administration for 5 weeks. Parameters
examined were levels of BDNF, IL6, TNFα, and serotonin by ELISA method. Statistical analysis
using ANOVA and Kruskal Wallis test with 95% confidence level. The results of the study: the
mean BDNF level in the P3 group was significantly highest (p=0.047). However, there was no
significant difference between groups in IL6, TNFα, and serotonin. Conclusion: The 70%
ethanol extract of pasak bumi did not affect neuroinflammation and brain serotonin levels in
post-malnutrition rats, but increased BDNF levels in post-malnourished rats at a dose of 22.5
mg/kg BW
