Pengaruh Kombucha Biji Pinang (Areca Catechu) terhadap Mikrobiota Usus dan Bio-Penanda Inflamasi Mencit Tua

Abstract

Background: Aging is associated with chronic low-grade inflammation, known as inflammaging. This condition is characterized by elevated levels of pro- inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-6 and TNF-α, which contribute to various age-related conditions. Beyond elevated pro-inflammatory cytokines, aging also brings about dysbiosis—an imbalance of the body’s microbiota, particularly in the gut. The interaction between gut microbiota and inflammation has become a central focus for understanding health conditions in older adults. Accordingly, maintaining gut microbiota balance necessitates the intake of probiotics and antioxidants. Notably, among emerging functional beverages, kombucha—a fermented tea rich in probiotics and antioxidants—has gained increasing popularity thanks to its potential health benefits. Similarly, Areca catechu seeds (commonly known as red betel nut seeds), which are also rich in antioxidants, are believed to provide additional support against oxidative stress and to improve gut health. Objective: To evaluate the effects of Areca catechu Seed Kombucha (KBAC) on gut microbiota diversity, IL-6, TNF-α levels, and the degree of inflammation based on histopathological findings. Methods: KBAC was prepared through fermentation using a Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast (SCOBY). To evaluate its effects, male mice were divided into six groups. K1 served as the normal group, while K2 functioned as the negative control. Groups P1, P3, and P5 received 0.36, 0.55, and 0.73 mL/20 g body weight, respectively, for 4 weeks. Groups P2, P4, and P6 received the same doses for 8 weeks. Gut microbiota composition was assessed using 16S rRNA sequencing. IL-6 and TNF-α levels were measured by ELISA, and hematoxylin– eosin (H&E) staining was used to assess the degree of inflammation. Data were analyzed using GraphPad Prism version 10.5.0. Results: Treatment groups P1 and P3–P6 demonstrated increased gut microbiota diversity, whereas P2 showed a microbiota profile similar to that of K2. Furthermore, all KBAC-treated groups (P1–P6) exhibited significantly lower IL-6 levels compared with K2 (p < 0.001), and TNF-α levels were also significantly lower in all KBAC-treated groups compared with K2 (p < 0.05). However, despite these biochemical changes, histopathological examination revealed no improvement in intestinal tissue in any of the study groups. Conclusion: KBAC increases gut microbiota diversity and reduces IL-6 and TNF-α levels but does not affect intestinal histopathology (duodenum, jejunum, ileum and colon), highlighting its selective benefits.