Evaluating the Impact of Organic and Synthetic Monosodium Glutamate on Obesity in Pregnant Rats: Lee Index Analysis

¹ Biology Education Department, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta. Jl. A. Yani Tromol Pos I, Pabelan, Kartasura, Surakarta 57162, Jawa Tengah, Indonesia
² Master’s Program in Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Airlangga University, Kampus C Jl. Mulyorejo, Surabaya 60115, Jawa Timur, Indonesia
³ Department of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Airlangga University, Kampus C Jl. Mulyorejo, Surabaya 60115, Jawa Timur, Indonesia
⁴ Department of Veterinary Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Airlangga University, Kampus C Jl. Mulyorejo, Surabaya 60115, Jawa Timur, Indonesia

Abstract

Our study aims to elucidate this relationship by analysing the Lee Index in various treatment groups of pregnant Wistar rats that were given different doses of MSG for 13 days. Forty-two eight-week-old pregnant Wistar rats, weighing between 140 and 160 grams, were randomly divided into seven experimental groups (n = 6). One group was designated as the control group, while the remaining seven groups were designated to receive organic and synthetic MSG, respectively. Three groups received doses of 60, 120 and, 240 mg/kg body weight, respectively. MSG was administered daily from the sixth day of pregnancy for 13 days, and the rats were weighed daily until the 20 day of pregnancy for analysis. Our findings revealed significant differences in body weight and Lee Index values among the groups. Notably, there was no evidence of obesity in any treatment group as all values remained below the obesity threshold of 350 g. Organic MSG at a dose of 120 mg/kg BW was found to increase appetite, whereas synthetic MSG had the least effect on appetite stimulation. These results suggest that, contrary to common assumptions, MSG may not increase obesity in pregnant rats.