Abstract

Background: Success of reproduction in oviparous animals is determined by the optimum vitellogenin deposition in the follicles. Vitellogenin is synthesized by hepatocytes in response to estrogen stimulation. Hepatocyte functionalities are important for the production of vitellogenin. This research was designed to increase liver function using catfish as a model.
Aim: Hepatocyte function can be improved by katuk extract, turmeric powder, and vitamin C supplementation.
Methods: The experiment consisted of 8 treatments and 3 repetitions. The treatments were administered for 8 weeks. The parameters measured were the hepatosomatic index (HSI), histology of the liver, concentrations of serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD).
Results: HSI in catfish supplemented with a combination of katuk extract, turmeric powder, and vitamin C showed the highest values. The liver histology of catfish supplemented with turmeric powder showed the lowest level of hepatocyte vacuolization compared with the findings for all treatments without turmeric supplementation. The SOD values were increased in the groups of catfish supplemented with turmeric powder with SGPT, whereas the SGOT values were decreased compared with those of catfish without turmeric powder supplementation.
Conclusion: It is concluded that turmeric powder supplementation can improve hepatocyte capacity and function to support vitellogenin synthesis to be deposited in growing and developing oocytes. This research will increase the production of farmed fish.

Key words: Catfish, Hepatocyte health, Katuk, Tumeric powder, Vitamin C