This study reports the green synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles using kalamansi peel extract (Citrus microcarpa Bunge) as a natural reducing and stabilizing agent, followed by evaluation of their photocatalytic activity toward methyl orange degradation under sunlight irradiation. The synthesis was carried out via a precipitation method using extract concentrations of 2%, 4%, and 6% (w/v) to investigate the effect of bioactive compound content on the structural and photocatalytic properties of ZnO. Higher extract concentrations were expected to provide more phytochemical compounds, which could improve crystal growth control and particle stabilization during synthesis. Characterization by FTIR confirmed the presence of Zn-O and Zn-OH vibrations at 882 cm-¹. XRD analysis revealed diffraction patterns corresponding to the hexagonal wurtzite ZnO phase, with crystallinity increasing from 84.62% to 91.08% as extract concentration increased. SEM observations showed that ZnO synthesized with 2% extract experienced significant agglomeration, while 4% and 6% extract concentrations promoted the formation of irregular tube-like and nanorod morphologies with better particle distribution. EDS analysis verified the presence of Zn and O elements in all samples. Photocatalytic tests demonstrated that ZnO synthesized using 6% extract exhibited the highest degradation efficiency of methyl orange (67.8% after 120 min), which was attributed to its higher crystallinity, reduced agglomeration, and improved nanorod morphology that enhanced light absorption and reactive species generation. These results indicate that extract concentration plays a crucial role in determining the physicochemical properties and photocatalytic performance of green-synthesized ZnO nanoparticles.
Hyperglycemia is a medical condition characterized by elevated blood glucose levels above normal, which is a characteristic of several diseases, particularly diabetes mellitus (DM) and other conditions. In DM, hyperglycemia is associated with inflammation that increases TNF-α and IL-1β cytokines through NF-kB activation. DM treatment with antidiabetic drugs has side effects, such as diarrhea, vomiting, and peripheral edema, necessitating alternative therapies like andalas tree bark extract. This study aimed to determine the effect of andalas tree bark extract (Morus macroura Miq.) on IL-1β gene transcript expression in the pancreas of hyperglycemic rats. This experimental study utilized 24 rats divided into 6 groups: normal control (K-), hyperglycemic control (K+), metformin 500mg control (K), and three treatment groups(P1, P2, P3) with extract doses of 100, 200, and 300 mg/kgBW. Results showed that the mean IL-1β gene concentrations in K-, K+, K, P1, P2, and P3 were 0.09, 1.24, 0.38, 0.12, 1.12, and 1.76 respectively, with significant differences observed (p=0.032). The andalas tree bark extract (Morus macroura Miq.) was most effective at a dose of 100 mg/kg BW for reducing IL-1β expression, while a dose of 200 mg/kg BW was effective in reducing blood glucose levels and increasing body weight in hyperglycemic rats.
Noni fruit (Morinda citrifolia), also known as noni, is widely used in Indonesia for its antioxidant and antibacterial benefits. This study evaluated the antioxidant and antibacterial activities of ethanol-extracted Noni fruit. Antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH method, showing an IC50 value of 28.82 μg/mL. Antibacterial activity was tested using the Resazurin Microtiter Assay (REMA), revealing MIC values against Bacillus subtilis (2.5 mg/mL), Staphylococcus aureus (10 mg/mL), Salmonella typhi (10 mg/mL), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (>10 mg/mL), and Propionibacterium acnes (0.63 mg/mL). The results indicate that Noni fruit extract has potential as a natural source of antioxidants and antibacterials.
Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder caused by damage to the pancreas, insulin resistance, or other factors. α-glucosidase inhibitors are compounds that can prevent the breakdown of complex carbohydrates into glucose, so α-glucosidase inhibitors have the potential to be used as diabetes drugs. One of the natural marine ingredients that has the potential to act as an antidiabetic is the macroalgae Eucheuma cottoniii. This research aims to determine the potential of Eucheuma cottoniii extract in inhibiting the activity of the α-glucosidase enzyme extract using an in vitro approach. Eucheuma cottoniii was extracted by a multistage maceration method used n-hexane, ethyl acetate and 70% ethanol as solvents. Extracts were characterized by the TLC method. The α-glucosidase inhibitory activity was tested in vitro used a microplate reader at 405 nm. TLC analysis results showed that the extract of Eucheuma cottonii contained flavonoid, phenol, alkaloid, steroids, and terpenoid. The α-glucosidase enzyme inhibition activity test showed that the IC50 values of the n-hexane, ethyl acetate and 70% ethanol extracts were 567.84; 174.32 and 99.57 μg/mL, while the IC50 of acarbose as a comparison was 64.41 μg/mL. It can be concluded that Eucheuma cottoniii extract with 70% ethanol has strong α-glucosidase enzyme inhibitory activity, so it has the potential to be developed as an alternative in antidiabetic treatment.
Tuberculosis (TB) remains a global health challenge with increasing drug resistance. This study aims to explore the potential of Andrographis paniculata as an alternative anti-TB therapy through an in silico approach. The study was conducted using the molecular docking method using Biovia Discovery Studio, AutoDock 1.5.7, and ChemDraw 3D software. The target proteins analyzed were 1TYP and 3R6C. which play a role in the biosynthesis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis cell walls. The docking results showed that dehydroandrographolide and neoandrographolide compounds have lower binding energies than ethambutol, with ΔG values of -9.54 kcal/mol and -9.04 kcal/mol at 3R6C, respectively. Stable hydrogen and non-hydrogen interactions indicate a stronger inhibitory potential against protein targets. Pharmacokinetic analysis through SwissADME and PKCMS confirmed that this compound meets Lipinski's Rule of 5 criteria, and has lower toxicity compared to conventional TB drugs. Thus, this study provides new insights into the development of natural compound-based TB therapy, which is potentially more effective and has minimal side effects. Further studies are needed to confirm the activity of this compound through in vitro and in vivo tests.
Ficus racemosa, also known as the fig plant, is renowned for its diverse medicinal properties. In light of this, our research aims to study the phytochemical compounds present in several extracts of fruits and barks of Ficus racemosa, as well as the antioxidant activity explored in the gradual solvent polarities (methanol, ethyl acetate, and hexane). The dried fruit and bark of Ficus racemosa were utilized, and extraction was obtained through successive extraction at room temperature following the cold maceration technique. Preliminary phytochemical screening of fruit and bark extracts revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, and tannins. The extracts were subjected to antioxidant activities by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) assay. Antioxidant capacity revealed the IC50 value of the methanol and ethyl acetate fruit extract of Ficus racemosa, which offered a strong capacity of 67.114 μg/mL and 69.149 μg/mL. These results indicate that the crude extract from Ficus racemosa fruit could serve as a candidate for a natural antioxidant against free radicals.
Senggugu has the potential to be a source of natural medicine through its compounds. Using in silico approaches is an effective strategy for exploring compounds from natural products in the screening process. In vivo studies on senggugu have indicated that the plant has antidiabetic activity, although the active compounds involved in this activity are unknown. This study aims to explore the content of bioactive compounds of Senggugu (Clerodendrum serratum (L.) Moon) and its mechanism of action as an antidiabetic in silico with Molegro Virtual Docker software, ChemDraw, visualization with Discovery Studio, and ADMET prediction with pkCSM. The study was conducted by simulating the molecular docking of 31 bioactive compounds in Senggugu (Clerodendrum serratum (L.) Moon) with comparison compounds using glibenclamide, miglitol, rosiglitazone, linagliptin, and empagliflozin. The validated target proteins comprised 5 (five) receptors with PDB ID codes 4YVP, 5NN6, 7AWC, 6Y0F, and 7VSI. Based on this study, the compound predicted to be active as an antidiabetic is [(1S,2S,6R,7S,11R)-11-hydroxy-5,9,13-trimethylidene-4-oxo-3,14-dioxatricyclo [9.2.1.02,6] tetradecan-7-yl]2-methylprop-2-enoate at receptor 4YVP with a rerank score of -107.663 kcal/mol with glibenclamide -94.8299 kcal/mol and [3-hydroxy-4-[(2R)-6-methylhept-5-en-2yl]phenyl]methyl3-methylbut-2-enoate at 5NN6 receptor with a rerank score of -87.8719 with miglitol -64.7212 kcal/mol.
Zircon sand mining in Indonesia generates magnetic waste rich in magnetite (Fe₃O₄), which has semiconductor properties, making it an effective catalyst for degrading organic pollutants. This study explores the synthesis and application of Fe₃O₄ derived from zircon mining waste as a photo-Fenton catalyst for humic acid (HA) degradation in peat water. The Fe₃O₄ catalyst was synthesized using a co-precipitation method, confirmed by FTIR and XRD analyses. FTIR identified Fe–O bonds at 537 cm-1 and 419 cm-1, while XRD showed a spinel crystal structure with peaks at 2θ angles of 30.14°, 35.51°, 43.19°, and 56.96°. The catalytic activity was tested under UV light with varying H₂O₂ volumes and Fe₃O₄ masses. The optimized condition, using 0.03 g Fe₃O₄ and 1 mL H₂O₂, achieved a maximum HA degradation efficiency of 87.06% in 100 minutes. Kinetic analysis revealed second-order kinetics, with a rate constant (k) of 8.29 × 10-4 M-1.min-1 and R² = 0.9911, showing a strong correlation. The high efficiency is attributed to Fe₃O₄'s semiconductor properties, which facilitate hydroxyl radical formation and enhance electron transfer. These findings demonstrate the potential of Fe₃O₄ from zircon mining waste as a sustainable catalyst for environmental applications, particularly in treating organic pollutants in peat water.
Empty fruit bunches (EFB), a substantial agricultural waste, offer great potential for value. This study aimed to use cellulose of EFB as a source of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) is considerable because cellulose-based waste is categorized as the most abundant waste in nature and is easy to obtain. Cellulose was then converted to the CMC process in several steps, including cellulose alkalization, and carboxymethylation. The resulting CMC was characterized to determine its degree of substitution, viscosity, and other physicochemical properties. Characterization with Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) verified the effect of NaOH concentration on this property. The highest degree of substitution (DS=1.34) was observed in 50 % NaOH of carboxymethylation. Cellulose can be correctly extracted from EFB and converted to CMC. Based on the cellulose of the EFB characteristic, the proper amount of NaOH was found to get a high DS. CMC has considerable features for application on biodegradable polymer materials.
Dye-sensitised solar cells (DSSCs) use dyes to absorb sunlight. Tannin is an eco-friendly natural dye alternative. However, the efficiency of tannin-based DSSCs is still low due to the limited number of conjugated double bonds. This study aims to improve the efficiency of DSSCs by polymerising tannin in two steps: Formaldehyde condensation under acidic conditions and glutaraldehyde crosslinking in alkaline medium. Parameter variations included initiator concentration (KOH vs. NaOH), crosslinking agent volume, polymerization time and temperature, and tannin monomer concentration. Characterization by FTIR and UV-Vis showed an increase in light absorption after polymerisation. The best results were obtained at 120°C, 2% NaOH initiator, 2.5 mL glutaraldehyde volume and 90 min reaction time, with DSSC efficiency reaching 9.18%, a fourfold increase compared to pure tannin (2.18%). This study shows that tannin polymerization significantly improves the efficiency of DSSCs, so it has the potential to be developed as a more efficient natural dye for photovoltaic applications.
Biofouling commonly occurred due to the accumulation of bacteria that blocked membrane pores, especially in fungal-derived membrane technology. Surface modification of Cerrena caperata fungal membrane was carried out in this study to enhance its antibacterial activity, which can be expected to prevent biofouling on the membrane surface. This modification is crucial to ensure the ability of the membrane to inhibit or kill pathogenic bacteria during water purification, ultimately producing safer water in the future. The membrane was synthesized from C. caperata mycelium cultured in potato dextrose broth for 4 weeks. Two modification treatments were applied: 1) deacetylation with 50% NaOH and 2) coating the membrane surface with 1% stearic acid. Both unmodified and modified membranes were characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. Antibacterial activity was tested against Escherichia coli, Bacillus cereus, and Staphylococcus aureus. The results showed that the most effective treatment for improving the antibacterial activity of membranes was deacetylation with 50% NaOH for 90 min, it might be caused the structure transformation of chitin to chitosan which have ability for antimicrobial efficacy. This research is expected to highlight the potential of fungi as a natural and sustainable raw material in the production of filtration membranes that are not only effective in water purification but also safer for both the environment and human health.
Dyera polyphylla (Miq.) Steenis, or jelutung rawa, is an endemic tree species native to Indonesia’s tropical peat swamp forests. While related species such as Dyera costulata have been reported to contain various bioactive compounds particularly phenolics with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, there has not been phytochemical studies on D. polyphylla. This study aimed to investigate the phenolic compound profile and total phenolic content in the stem wood, stem bark, and leaves of D. polyphylla. Extraction was carried out using total and stratified maceration methods with n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol as solvents. Qualitative analysis involved phytochemical screening by using phenolic specific reagents, thin-layer chromatography (TLC) with FeCl₃ reagents, and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Total phenolic content was quantified using the Folin–Ciocalteu spectrophotometric method. Phenolic compounds were detected in all plant parts, particularly in the ethyl acetate and methanol extracts. HPLC analysis showed that the chromatographic profile of the methanol extract from stem wood closely resembled that of the leaves. The highest phenolic content was observed in the methanol extract of the leaves (29.02 mg GAE/g). These results suggested that D. polyphylla, particularly its leaves, is a promising natural source of phenolic compounds with potential antioxidant and therapeutic value.
The starch content in avocado seeds is quite high, which is 79.45% with an amylose content of 29.55% and amylopectin of 49.9%. Avocado seeds contain polyphenols, flavonoids, triterpenoids, quinones, saponins, tannins, monoterpenoids and sesquiterpenoids. The high starch content in avocado seeds allows avocado seeds to be one of the alternative starch sources. The starch content in avocado seeds can be used as a raw material for making bio plastics, thereby reducing the amount of unused avocado seed waste. Bio plastic is an innovation to reduce plastic waste that is difficult to decompose. The main components of bio plastics are hydrocolloids or lipids or composites. Additional materials used in the manufacture of bio plastics are chitosan and plasticizers. Chitosan is useful for improving the tensile strength, elongation, and degradation properties of bio plastics, while plasticizers are useful for increasing the elasticity value of bio plastics. The purpose of this study was to determine the volume ratio of plasticizers and the effect of plasticizer types on the manufacture of bio plastics from avocado seed starch. This research also proves that the type and volume of plasticizer used can successfully produce bio plastics that meet the characteristic testing standards conducted. The results of functional group analysis using FTIR can form O-H bonds in bio plastics among starch, plasticizer and chitosan. Biodegradable results by utilizing soil microorganisms as assistants in the degradation process, bio plastics can be completely degraded for 20 days, as evidenced by perfectly degraded bio plastic sheets in the soil.
Nickel (II) hydroxide (Ni(OH)₂) nanoparticles have attracted significant research interest due to their potential in applications such as supercapacitors, batteries, and electrocatalysis. However, conventional synthesis methods often face challenges related to high costs and complex instrumentation. This study presents a simple, low-cost, and controllable approach for synthesizing Ni(OH)₂ nanoparticles using a surfactant-assisted electrochemical method. The synthesis was conducted through electrolysis at 100°C in an aqueous solution containing sodium citrate, with Tween 20 employed as a structure-directing agent, Tween 20 was effective in producing smaller, dispersed, quasi-spherical particles while preventing severe agglomeration. The resulting nanoparticles were characterized using various analytical techniques, including UV-Vis and FTIR spectroscopy, X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA), and electron microscopy (TEM/SEM). UV-Vis analysis showed a characteristic absorption peak at 387 nm, confirming nanoparticle formation. XRD analysis validated the synthesis of a nanocrystalline hexagonal Ni(OH)₂ phase. Electron microscopy revealed a hierarchical, flower-like morphology composed of nanosheets and demonstrated that Tween 20 was effective in producing smaller, dispersed, quasi-spherical particles while preventing severe agglomeration. Furthermore, the thermal decomposition of Ni(OH)₂ into highly crystalline cubic, NiO via calcination was confirmed by TGA, XRD, and FTIR analyses, with the main decomposition occurring at approximately 335°C. This research demonstrates an effective and economical route for producing Ni(OH)₂ nanoparticles with controlled morphology, enhancing their potential for practical applications.
The textile industry's rapid growth has increased dye waste; therefore, effective treatment solutions are needed. Photocatalysis technology has emerged as a promising approach due to its efficiency and environmentally friendly properties. Aurivillius-structured compounds have shown potential as photocatalysts because their ferroelectric properties can inhibit recombinant rate electron-hole. In this research, we synthesized Sr₂Bi₄Ti₅O₁₈ (one of the five-layer Aurivillius compound classes) using the molten salt method. Then, we tested its application for adsorption-photocatalysis degradation of rhodamine B. The diffractogram showed that the Sr2Bi4Ti5O18 phase was successfully synthesized with minor impurities (Bi2O3 and TiO2) attributed to incomplete reaction processes. The SEM image showed plate-like particles with non-uniform particle sizes was obtained. The Kubelka-Munk result showed that the band gap energy of Sr2Bi4Ti5O18 is 3.27 eV. Adsorption tests demonstrated that Sr2Bi4Ti5O18 reduced rhodamine B concentration by 52.5% for 30 minutes, which corresponds to its good adsorption capability. Further adsorption-photocatalysis experiments under light exposure showed ~60% reduction in rhodamine B concentration for 60 minutes. The comparison between adsorption and photocatalysis results suggests that adsorption dominates in decreasing rhodamine B concentration. This is likely due to the large number of rhodamine B molecules adsorbed on the surface of Sr2Bi4Ti5O18, which prevents light from reaching the Sr2Bi4Ti5O18 surface, thereby hindering the degradation of rhodamine B through the photocatalysis mechanism.
Virgin coconut oil (VCO) has various health benefits. In the VCO production process using fermentation, a by-product is produced as a solid called oil cake. In this study, lactic acid bacteria were isolated from oil cake VCO, characterized and tested for antimicrobial activity against E. coli and S. aureus bacteria. Screening of enzymatic activity was also carried out as amylolytic, proteolytic, and lipolytic activities. From the study, four isolates were obtained, namely BL1, BL2, BL3, and BL4. The isolates have the characteristics of lactic acid bacteria in the form of circular colonies, white and milky white, gram-positive and do not have catalase activity. Based on observations, it is suspected that the bacterial isolates belong to the Lactobacillaceae and Streptococcaceae families. Four isolates have moderate antibacterial activity against S. aureus. The largest inhibition zone owned by isolate BL1 about 9.5 mm in diameters. Four isolates have antibacterial activity against E. coli with a weak category. The enzymatic potential test shows that isolate BL 1 has amylase and protease enzyme activity, while isolates BL2 and BL3 only have amylase enzyme activity.
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by increased blood glucose levels (hyperglycemia). Efforts to treat and prevent DM are made by using antidiabetics, usually synthetic drugs. However, continuous use may cause side effects. Other alternatives are needed to handle DM by utilizing plants as antidiabetics, such as the vegetable fern (Diplazium esculentum S.). Therefore, this research aims to analyze the components of a vegetable fern leaf extract and determine its effectiveness as an antidiabetic through in silico and in vivo assays. The sample was macerated using 98% ethanol for 3x24 hours. Phytochemical screening and LC-MS/MS analysis were performed on the extract. In vivo studies were conducted on mice with extract doses of 200, 400, and 600 mg/BW along with positive (Glibenclamide) and negative controls. An in silico study was conducted by molecular docking against the ɑ-glucosidase receptor with PDB ID 5KZW, which was docked to 18 compounds from the extract. The analysis revealed that the D. esculentum S. leaf extract contained 22 compounds, including flavonoids, terpenoids, steroids, and phenolics. The best dosage for the in vivo antidiabetic efficacy assays was 400 mg/BW of extract, which significantly reduced glucose levels for 21 days, reaching 30%, which was better than Glibenclamide's 27%. Based on in silico tests, the molecules kaempferol 3-rhamno-glucoside and 4,4-Bis[2,2-bis(4-methoxyphenyl)vinyl]biphenyl had the highest affinity, with a value of -6.3 kcal/mol. Dantaxusin A and Phorone A came in second and third, respectively, with -6.0 and -5.9 kcal/mol. These results suggest the potential antidiabetic effects of D. esculentum S. leaf extract.
Nickel Phosphate (NiP) has been successfully synthesized through the precipitation method. The effect of pH, stirring temperature, and Ni:P molar ratio on NiP formation has been studied. The optimization showed that NiP is formed at pH 6, stirring temperature of 90 °C, and a molar ratio of Ni:P of 3:6. Then, the obtained powder was calcined at a temperature of 350-800 °C. The synthesised NiP was characterized using X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, nitrogen adsorption-desorption, and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The characterization results showed that the NiP structure was amorphous at 350-600 °C and transformed into a monoclinic crystalline of Ni₃(PO₄)₂ at 800 °C. Nitrogen adsorption isotherms showed that the NiP result had a predominance of micropores with little mesoporous contribution. Sample NiP_350 shows the highest surface area (9.94 m2/g) with a more uniform pore distribution. FTIR-pyridine analysis identified the existence of both Lewis and Brønsted acid sites, with the predominance of Brønsted acid at low calcination temperatures. The increase in calcination temperature resulted in reduced surface area and total acidity due to pore coalescence and dehydration, which was in line with the results of SEM, which showed a denser morphology. Overall, these results confirm that variations in synthesis and calcination conditions play an important role in determining the textural properties, acidity, and structure of NiP, which makes them potential candidates for catalysis and adsorption applications.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a widespread global health issue, characterized by insulin resistance and impaired a-amylase activity—an enzyme essential for carbohydrate metabolism. Phenolic compounds derived from brown macroalgae have been identified as potential a-amylase inhibitors and are promising candidates for the development of novel antidiabetic agents. This study aimed to explore the molecular interactions between phlorotannin-derived metabolites from Sargassum sp. and the α-amylase enzyme (PDB ID: 1B2Y) through in silico approaches, including molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations. Molecular docking was performed using AutoDock 4.2, followed by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations using GROMACS to assess the stability of the ligand–enzyme complexes. The results revealed that dieckol (S06) and 6,6′-bieckol (S07) showed the strongest binding affinity with a docking score of -9.57 and -8.95 kcal/mol, respectively and the most favorable binding free energy (ΔTOTAL -56.87 kcal/mol), suggesting its strong potential for stable interaction with the enzyme. These results highlight the potential of dieckol and 6,6′-bieckol as effective α-amylase inhibitors.
In this research, preparation of chitosan/alginate film incorporated with Moringa oleifera leaf extract (MOE) was successfully developed. These films were characterized using FTIR spectrophotometer to investigate interaction between chitosan-alginate and the extract. Physical characteristics of these films were also identified including thickness, water content, film solubility, and water vapor permeability (WVP). Film characterization showed that chitosan/alginate films with Moringa oleifera extract had been formed. Addition of crude extract of Moringa oleifera did not affect the thickness of films significantly. Addition of Moringa oleifera leaf extract at higher level concentration increased film solubility of films. Meanwhile, water content and water vapor permeability (WVP) decreased with higher concentration of extract. Antioxidant performance, measured using UV-Vis spectrophotometer, revealed that the film with the highest extract concentration achived the greatest radical scavenging activity (RSA), reaching 43.65% after 48 hours. Furthermore, the application of on grapes demonstrated the potential of chitosan-alginate films with Moringa oleifera extract as effective active packaging.
