Ethyl Acetate Fraction of Momordica Charantia L. Fruits Induce the Phagocytosis Activity and Capacity of Rat Peritoneal Macrophages

Abstract

Phagocytosis is one of the body's immune mechanisms in the elimination of antigens, including bacteria. Its mechanism is affected by many factors, such as the inducers. The present study aims to elaborate on the effect of ethyl acetate fraction of Momordica charantia L fruits on the activity and capacity of rat peritoneal macrophages on a non-A Staphylococcus aureus, including the white blood cell percentage. A series of M. charantia ethyl acetate extract concentrations of 25 mg/kg BW, 50 mg/kg BW, and 100 mg/kg BW were used to identify the phagocytosis activity and capacity, as well as the percentage of white blood cells (WBC). The result showed that the concentration of 50 mg/kg BW had the highest phagocytic activity and capacity compared to other concentrations (P < 0.05), while for the WBC percentage, there were no significant differences among the concentrations (P > 0.05). The conclusion of the present study is M. charantia ethyl acetate extract has the potential to be used as a natural immunostimulant.