The Effect of Jatropha curcas L Seed Extract on AST/ALT Activity and The Central Vein Thickness in Liver

Background: Jatropha is known as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-fungal, anti-cancer, and has coagulant activity. Jatropha curcas (Jatropha curcas L.) contains toxic compounds such as cursin, ricin and gallic acid. The liver has an important role in the process of metabolism and detoxification of xenobiotic substances. Repeated exposure to toxic compounds can damage hepatic hepatocytes. If the hepatocyte cells are injured, the AST/ALT enzyme is excreted and goes into the blood vessels, as an indicator of liver damage. This is also indicated by changes in the thickness of the central veins. This study aims to determine the effect of giving jatropha seed extract (Jatropha curcas L.) on AST/ALT activity and the central vein thickness in the liver. Materials and Methods: The research design was experimental, using male rats (Rattus novergicus L) Sprague Dawley strain. The rats were given Jatropha seed extract at doses of 0, 5, 25, 50, and 250 mg/ KgBW for 28 days. To assess liver damage, measurements of AST/ ALT activity and thickness of the central vein in the liver were performed. Results: Jatropha seed extract increased ALT activity at doses of 25.50, and 250 mg / KgBW compared to the control group (1.207; 1.62; 1.548 IU/L/ mg tissue x 10^-3); and increased AST activity at doses of 5, 25, 50, and 250 mg / KgBW compared to the control group (0.769; 0.974; 1.449; 1.185 IU/L/ mg tissue x 10^-3); Central vein thickness increased at doses of 25 and 50 mg/KgBW (6.17 and 4.9 μm) (Kruskal Wallis; p> 0.05). Conclusion: Jatropha curcas L. seed extract increased the activity of AST/ALT and the thickness of the central vein in the liver.