Evaluation of Lens Culinaris Extract Antioxidant Capacity and Validation Capacity and Valof Chronic Resrtraint Stress Model in Adult Mice

Abstract

This report summarizes the total of 65 days internship project at Indonesia International Institute for Life Sciences (i3L) under biomedicine department. Major depressive disorder is a highly disabling psychological disorder and to date there are still no effective treatments. Lentils or Lens culinaris are legumes widely consumed as the primary dietary source of carbohydrate and protein worldwide. Consuming lentils are hypothesized to serve as preventive and alternative antidepressants due to its potential antioxidative capacity. Lentil was extracted using solvent mixture with a ratio of acetone/water/acetic acid 70:29.5:0.5, v/v/v. The phytochemicals were analysed qualitatively and quantitatively. Furthermore, the crude lentil extract was tested for its antioxidant activity. The chronic restraint stress (CRS) mice model was tested using forced swimming test (FST) and sucrose preference test (SPT). The extraction yields 9.05 g of crude lentil extract. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of saponin, alkaloid, and low amount of flavonoid. Corresponding to the low level of phytochemicals, the antioxidant activity was found to be poor. After conducting FST and SPT, three hour of CRS for two weeks was found to be effective to induce depressive-like behavior in mice. In conclusion, lentil extract might not have a beneficial effect against major depressive disorder. For further in vivo study, 3h CRS for two weeks can be used to induce depressive-like behavior in mice. Lastly, the internship was a memorable and valuable experience. The intern learned more about her strengths and weaknesses when placed in a working environment. The intern hoped she could use all the knowledge she obtained for her future career.