Analysis of GABRB3 Protein Level After Administration of Valerian Extract (Valeriana officinalis) in BALB/c mice

Background: Valeriana officinalis is most commonly used as traditional medicine. Valerenic acid is the primary component of Valerian officinalis which inhibits the catabolism of enzyme induced breakdown of gamma amino butyric acid (GABA) in the brain, resulting in sedation. The aim of this study is to determine the level of GABRB3 protein, as part of major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, after administration of Valerian extracts in BALB/c mice. Materials and Methods: This is an experimental study using animal model with post test-only controlled group design. Twenty healthy adult male BALB/c mice were randomly divided into four groups, negative control group (Aquadest), positive control group (Diazepam 0.025 mg/10 g), first treatment group (Valerian extract 2.5 mg/10 g) and second treatment group (Valerian extract 5 mg/10 g). The drugs were administered via gastric gavage for seven consecutive days. The blood was drawn from each mice on the first day (before treatment) and on the seventh day of experiment (2 hours after treatment). The blood sample was examined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to determine the GABRB3 protein level. Results: GABRB3 protein level in BALB/c mice after administration of Valerian extract was increased significantly in both treatment group (p <0.0001). The highest increment in protein levels was found in the first treatment group with an increase of 2.988 μmol/L, compared with the second treatment group with an increase of 2.146 μmol/L. Conclusion: GABRB3 protein level in BALB/c mice were increased after administration of Valerian extract. Administration of higher dose does not yield in higher GABRB3 protein level nor sedative effect.