Molecular docking analysis of Polyscias scutellaria active compounds as inhibitor of dopamine D₂ receptors to increase prolactin secretion

Shield Aralia (Polyscias scutellaria) is one of the plants that grows in Indonesia and has many benefits, especially for health. P. scutellaria contains active compounds derivate the flavonoids class. Based on ethnobotany studies, Shield Aralia leaf is widely consumed by nursing mothers with the aim to increase breast milk production. Unfortunately, research related to P. scutellaria leaves and their function to increase milk production are rarely done. The aim of this study to determine the potential of active compounds contained in P. scutellaria leaves as a dopamine D2 receptor (D2R) inhibitor through molecular docking studies. Based on the results of molecular docking on the D2R protein, it shows the binding value of the drug control affinity (risperidone) −6.9 kcal/mol, afzelin −6.1 kcal/mol, quercetin −6.3 kcal/mol, quercitrin -6.1 kcal/mol, and rutin −7.0 kcal/mol. Inhibitory activity on D2R has an impact on increasing prolactin secretion; thus, it can elevate breast milk production. Based on these results showed that the P. scutellaria active compounds can be used as a drug candidate to increase breast milk production.