POTENTIAL OF SNAKEHEAD FISH (OPHIOCEPHALUS STRIATUS) IN ACCELERATING WOUND HEALING

Robert Tungadi

doi:10.22270/ujpr.v4i5.316

Robert Tungadi Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Sport and Health, State University of Gorontalo, Gorontalo, Indonesia

10.22270/ujpr.v4i5.316

Keywords:

Albumin, glycine, snakehead fish, wound, zinc

Abstract

Snakehead fish (Ophiocephalus striatus) (SF) is a type of fish that lives in fresh water and is widely known by the public. The properties and uses of SF have been scientifically proven to increase albumin levels and immune system as well as speed up the process of post-operative wound healing. The nutritional content of SF consists of albumin protein, amino acids, unsaturated fatty acids and minerals. Bioactive compounds that play a role in accelerating the wound healing process are albumin, glycine, and zinc (Zn). Wound healing is very dependent on the biochemical processes that occur on the skin involving intrinsic and extrinsic factors. This healing process will be accelerated with the help of dried SF extract which is designed in topical form such as cream or gel. Among albumin, glycine and Zn are important for wound healing because this protein is able to bind Zn and carry it in blood plasma. Zn deficiency reduces the wound healing process. Because of this nutrient, and other vitamins, it is present in SF extract so that it can trigger the formation of Endothelial Progenitor Cells (EPC) and accelerate wound healing. The presence of Zn in SF extract is likely to be a key factor playing a role in wound healing and also increases the appetite of children. Zn is an important mineral in the structure and function of cell membranes. Zn supplementation can limit membrane damage which is caused by free radicals during inflammation. Furthermore, Zn is also involved in the immune system, from the defense system by the skin to the regulation of genes in lymphocytes.