Comparative In Vitro Analysis of Protozoan Genus Responses to Antiprotozoal Agents from Extracts, Sengon Leaf Flour, and Commercial Saponin Ahmad Ulul Bisri Husni1 , Hartutik1, and Muhammad Halim Natsir1
Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Brawijaya, East Java, Indonesian
Abstract
Abstract. This study aimed to compare the in vitro antiprotozoal activity of Albizia chinensis leaf flour, extract of Albizia chinensis, and a commercial saponin against rumen protozoa. Rumen fluid from Peranakan Etawa goats was incubated with each treatment for six hours under controlled anaerobic conditions. DNA was extracted and amplified using 18S rRNA primers, and amplicons were sequenced through Oxford Nanopore technology to identify protozoan genera composition. Comparative analysis revealed that all treatments inhibited several protozoan genera, with variations in spectrum and intensity. Commercial saponin exhibited the strongest and broadest suppression, eliminating genera such as Entamoeba and Isotricha. Sengon leaf extract showed selective inhibition, while the crude flour displayed mild but broader effects, likely due to synergism among saponins, flavonoids, and fiber matrices. The results indicate that the degree of processing strongly influences the specificity and potency of antiprotozoal activity. Although commercial saponin demonstrated the highest efficacy, sengon-based products offer sustainable, plant-derived alternatives that may reduce rumen protozoa and methane production. Further studies on bioactive compound profiling and in vivo validation are recommended to optimize the application of A. chinensis as a natural feed additive for ruminant microbial management.
