The Role of Bioinformatics in the Discovery of Traditional Indonesian Medicines for the Treatment of Metabolic Syndrome

Abstract

Metabolic syndrome, characterized by a range of risk factors, including increased waist circumference, elevated blood triglyceride levels, reduced HDL cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, and glucose intolerance, poses a significant global health challenge. Amidst rising obesity rates worldwide, metabolic syndrome emerges as a critical health crisis, with Indonesia showing a notable prevalence. The country's rich biodiversity, hosting a vast array of medicinal plants, presents a unique repository for traditional medicine options. This research aims to explore the potential of Indonesian Traditional Medicine in treating Metabolic Syndrome and examine the role of bioinformatics in discovering these medicines. The methodology integrates document analysis and systematic review, employing a systematic literature search across databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar with keywords such as "Metabolic Syndrome," "Indonesian Traditional Medicine," and "Bioinformatics." Results indicate significant potential in selected medicinal plants such as Allium sativum (Garlic), Momordica charantia (Bitter Melon), Cinnamomum verum (Cinnamon), Morinda citrifolia (Noni), and Curcuma longa (Turmeric) in managing metabolic syndrome's symptoms. These plants demonstrate therapeutic effects in both preclinical and clinical settings, suggesting their utility in treating metabolic syndrome effectively. Bioinformatics emerges as a pivotal tool for the discovery process, enabling the identification of molecular targets and analysis of active compounds, thus accelerating the development of new therapies. Through a combined approach of document analysis and systematic review, the research elucidates the substantial potential of Indonesian traditional medicine and bioinformatics in addressing metabolic syndrome, offering insights into their mechanisms of action and therapeutic efficacy.