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Comparison of the Antibacterial Activity of Lime Mistletoe Extract (Dendrophthoe petandra (L.) Miq.) Against Staphylococcus aureus with Standard Antibiotics Lisa Savitri; Mila Putri Daniati; Kharisma Rahmasari; Syntia Tanu Juwita
Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry Vol 14, No 2 (2025)
Publisher : Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University & Society for Indonesian Biodiversity

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.14421/biomedich.2025.142.1285-1288

Abstract

Staphylococcus aureus remains a major cause of infections worldwide and is increasingly resistant to antibiotics. Natural products, particularly medicinal plants, are valuable sources of alternative antibacterial agents. Lime mistletoe (Dendrophthoe pentandra (L.) Miq.), traditionally used in Indonesian medicine, contains diverse phytochemicals that may exhibit antibacterial activity. Leaves of D. pentandra were collected, dried, and extracted using 96% ethanol. The crude extract was screened for phytochemicals and tested against S. aureus (ATCC 25923) using disk diffusion, broth microdilution, and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) assays. Oxacillin and vancomycin served as positive controls, while 1% DMSO was used as a negative control. All tests were performed in triplicate, and data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA with significance set at p < 0.05. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, saponins, and terpenoids. The extract produced inhibition zones of 8.5 ± 0.3 mm, 12.7 ± 0.5 mm, and 16.3 ± 0.6 mm at 25%, 50%, and 100% concentrations, respectively. MIC and MBC values were determined to be 250 µg/mL and 500 µg/mL, with an MBC/MIC ratio of 2, indicating bactericidal activity. Inhibition zones of the extract at its highest concentration were comparable to oxacillin, though vancomycin exhibited superior activity. Ethanol extract of D. pentandra demonstrated moderate yet significant antibacterial activity against S. aureus. Its bactericidal potential and phytochemical diversity support its role as a candidate for further development, especially in topical applications or as a source of active lead compounds. Further research should investigate activity against resistant strains, cytotoxicity, and in vivo efficacy.
In Silico Molecular Docking and ADMET Evaluation of Active Compounds from Acalypha indica L. Against the HER2 Breast Cancer Target Lisa Savitri; Kharisul Ihsan; Elfred Rinaldo Kasimo; Rochmad Krissanjaya
Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry Vol 15, No 1 (2026)
Publisher : Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University & Society for Indonesian Biodiversity

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.14421/biomedich.2026.151.45-51

Abstract

Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality in women worldwide, and overexpression of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is associated with aggressive tumor progression, poor prognosis, and treatment resistance. Natural compounds are increasingly explored as safer anticancer candidates due to their structural diversity and lower toxicity profiles. Acalypha indica L., a traditional medicinal plant widely used in Asia, contains numerous phytochemicals with reported antioxidant and cytotoxic activities. This study investigates the binding affinity and pharmacokinetic potential of major A. indica phytochemicals against HER2 using in silico molecular docking and ADMET predictions. Twelve bioactive compounds were selected: quercetin, kaempferol, luteolin, rutin, isoquercitrin, caffeic acid, ferulic acid, esculetin, lupeol, beta-sitosterol, stigmasterol, and acalyphin. Docking was performed using AutoDock Vina against HER2 (PDB ID: 3PP0). Kaempferol (-10.2 kcal/mol), quercetin (-9.8 kcal/mol), and luteolin (-9.3 kcal/mol) showed the highest affinity, interacting strongly with key residues within the HER2 ATP-binding pocket. ADMET analysis indicated that kaempferol, quercetin, and luteolin possessed favorable oral bioavailability and safety characteristics. These findings suggest that A. indica contains promising HER2-targeting phytochemicals that warrant further investigation through in vitro and in vivo studies.
In Silico Study of the Antibacterial Activity of Acalypha indica L. Compounds Against Staphylococcus aureus DNA Gyrase Protein Lisa Savitri; Kharisul Ihsan; Elfred Rinaldo Kasimo
Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry Vol 15, No 1 (2026)
Publisher : Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University & Society for Indonesian Biodiversity

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.14421/biomedich.2026.151.137-141

Abstract

Flavonoids from Acalypha indica exhibit potential antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, particularly through inhibition of DNA gyrase B. This study evaluated molecular interactions of mauritanin, acalyphin, quercetin, and kaempferol using in silico approaches, including molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation, and ADMET prediction. Docking results showed that mauritanin had the lowest binding energy (-8.5 kcal/mol) and formed stable interactions with key residues in the active site, corroborated by 50 ns molecular dynamics simulations. Pharmacokinetic and drug-likeness predictions indicated that mauritanin and acalyphin had favorable profiles, with high gastrointestinal absorption and low toxicity risk. The other flavonoids showed higher permeability across the central nervous system, potentially beneficial for CNS-targeted therapies. These findings support mauritanin as a promising lead compound for novel antibacterial agent development, warranting further in vitro and in vivo validation.
Isolation and Identification of Dermatophytes from Toenails and Interdigital Spaces of Students Using Czapek Yeast Extract Agar Lisa Savitri; Kharisul Ihsan; Rochmad Krissanjaya; Elfred Rinaldo Kasimo; Novirma Yanti; Mochamad Hanif Hilmi
Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry Vol 14, No 2 (2025)
Publisher : Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University & Society for Indonesian Biodiversity

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.14421/biomedich.2025.142.795-798

Abstract

Dermatophytosis remains a common superficial fungal infection affecting nails and interdigital spaces, with Trichophyton rubrum and T. mentagrophytes as the predominant etiologic agents. The recent emergence of terbinafine-resistant T. indotineae has raised new challenges in diagnosis and treatment. Although Sabouraud Dextrose Agar is the conventional medium for fungal culture, alternative media such as Czapek Yeast Extract Agar (CYA) may provide additional advantages for dermatophyte isolation and morphological identification. This study aimed to isolate and identify dermatophytes from toenails and interdigital spaces of university students using CYA medium and to evaluate its applicability in dermatophyte culture. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 100 university students aged 18–24 years. Specimens were collected from toenails (n = 60) and interdigital spaces (n = 40). Direct microscopy was performed using 20% KOH preparation. Samples were cultured on CYA supplemented with chloramphenicol and cycloheximide, and incubated at 28 ± 2 °C for up to 21 days. Fungal isolates were identified based on macroscopic and microscopic morphology. Data were analyzed descriptively, and associations were tested using the chi-square test. Fungal elements were detected in 65% of samples by KOH examination, and dermatophyte growth was confirmed in 52% of cultures. The most frequently isolated species were T. rubrum (28%) and T. mentagrophytes (18%). Notably, T. indotineae was detected in 5% of samples. No significant difference was found between toenail and interdigital isolates (p = 0.26). Dermatophytes are prevalent among university students, with T. rubrum as the dominant species. The detection of T. indotineae highlights its emerging role in young populations. CYA proved effective for dermatophyte isolation and may serve as an alternative culture medium in academic and diagnostic laboratories.
Onychomycosis in Students: An Overview of Nail Care Practices and Personal Hygiene Lisa Savitri; Kharisul Ihsan; Rochmad Krissanjaya; Elfred Rinaldo Kasimo; Novirma Yanti; Mochamad Hanif Hilmi
Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry Vol 14, No 2 (2025)
Publisher : Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University & Society for Indonesian Biodiversity

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.14421/biomedich.2025.142.1015-1019

Abstract

Onychomycosis is a common nail disorder caused by dermatophytes, yeasts, and non-dermatophyte molds, with increasing prevalence among young adults. Poor nail care and personal hygiene habits are essential predisposing factors that contribute to infection. Despite its clinical relevance, data on onychomycosis in student populations remain limited. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 undergraduate students from the Faculty of Health Sciences, aged 18–25 years. Nail specimens were collected from individuals presenting with suspected onychomycosis. Direct microscopy was performed using a 20% potassium hydroxide (KOH) preparation, and samples were cultured on Sabouraud Dextrose Agar supplemented with chloramphenicol and cycloheximide. Fungal isolates were identified based on macroscopic and microscopic characteristics. Sociodemographic data, nail care habits, and hygiene practices were collected through structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed descriptively, and associations were assessed using chi-square tests. Onychomycosis was confirmed in 27 students (18%). Dermatophytes were the most frequent isolates, with Trichophyton rubrum (9%) and T. mentagrophytes (5%) predominating, followed by Candida albicans (3%) and Aspergillus spp. (1%). Risk factors significantly associated with infection included irregular nail trimming (p = 0.01), sharing of nail clippers (p = 0.03), and prolonged use of closed footwear (p = 0.02). No significant associations were observed with gender or age. Onychomycosis is prevalent among university students, with dermatophytes as the leading causative agents. Inadequate nail care and poor hygiene practices play a critical role in the occurrence of diseases. Health education and preventive interventions should be prioritized to reduce infection rates in young adults. Further studies employing molecular methods are recommended to refine species identification and improve epidemiological insights.
The Influence of Strain Type and Female Age on the Receptivity of Female Drosophila melanogaster in Homogamous Crosses Lisa Savitri; Kharisul Ihsan; Rochmad Krissanjaya; Elfred Rinaldo Kasimo
Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry Vol 14, No 2 (2025)
Publisher : Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University & Society for Indonesian Biodiversity

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.14421/biomedich.2025.142.937-941

Abstract

Drosophila melanogaster is a widely used model organism in genetic research due to its short life cycle and the presence of many genes homologous to those found in humans. It plays an important role in studies related to genetic inheritance, gene interaction, sex determination, and developmental genetics. One key aspect of its reproductive biology is female receptivity—the willingness of a female to accept mating—which is influenced by various internal and external factors. External factors include environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity, as well as male courtship signals like wing vibrations and chemical cues. Internal factors are mainly related to the female's sexual maturity and mating status. Generally, female receptivity increases with age after eclosion, reaches a peak, and gradually declines. This study investigates the impact of strain type and female age on receptivity in homogamous crosses of D. melanogaster, using two mutant strains: dp (with a wing mutation) and wa (with an eye color mutation). Receptivity was measured by the presence or absence of F1 offspring following crosses between males and females of the same strain, with females tested at different ages ranging from 10 to 60 hours after eclosion. The results indicate that strain type does not have a significant effect on female receptivity. In contrast, female age plays a clear role: individuals aged 30 years and older were more receptive and more likely to produce offspring. No significant interaction was found between strain type and age. These findings suggest that female receptivity in D. melanogaster is more strongly influenced by sexual maturity (as indicated by age) than by genetic differences between strains.
Academic Stress and Blood Glucose Levels: A Correlational Study Among Medical Laboratory Technology Students Lisa Savitri; Mochamad Hanif Hilmi; Elfred Rinaldo Kasimo; Rochmad Krissanjaya; Kharisul Ihsan
Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry Vol 14, No 2 (2025)
Publisher : Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University & Society for Indonesian Biodiversity

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.14421/biomedich.2025.142.977-981

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by elevated blood glucose levels, often influenced by various physiological and psychological factors. One such factor is stress, particularly academic stress among university students. This study aims to explore the potential correlation between academic stress levels and random blood glucose levels among Medical Laboratory Technology (D.IV) students at Kadiri University. A cross-sectional, quantitative approach was used in this study. A total of 28 eligible students participated. Academic stress levels were assessed using the Perceived Sources of Academic Stress (PSAS) questionnaire, while random blood glucose levels were measured using spectrophotometric methods with glucose GOD FS reagents. Data were analyzed using the Pearson correlation test to determine the relationship between the two variables. The majority of students experienced moderate academic stress (71.43%), while the rest (28.57%) experienced high stress. No students reported low stress levels. Regarding blood glucose, 53.57% of participants had normal levels, and 46.43% had elevated levels. The Pearson correlation coefficient was 0.045 with a p-value of 0.819, indicating no statistically significant relationship between academic stress levels and blood glucose levels. Regression analysis also confirmed that while there was a slight positive trend (suggesting that higher stress may slightly raise glucose levels), the effect was negligible and not statistically significant. This study found no significant correlation between academic stress and random blood glucose levels among Medical Laboratory Technology students. Although stress may contribute to changes in glucose levels through hormonal mechanisms, other factors—such as diet, physical activity, and individual coping strategies—likely play a more substantial role. Interventions focusing on stress management, healthy lifestyle habits, and regular health monitoring are recommended to maintain both psychological well-being and metabolic health in students.
In Silico Study of Bioactive Compounds from Acalypha indica L. Interacting with the COX-2 Receptor as Potential Anti-Inflammatory Candidates Lisa Savitri; Kharisul Ihsan; Rochmad Krissanjaya; Elfred Rinaldo Kasimo
Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry Vol 15, No 1 (2026)
Publisher : Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University & Society for Indonesian Biodiversity

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.14421/biomedich.2026.151.31-37

Abstract

Acalypha indica L. is a medicinal herb traditionally used across Asia for treating inflammation-related conditions. Although several studies report anti-inflammatory activity in its extracts, little is known about the molecular interaction of its individual phytochemicals with cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2)—a validated therapeutic target for inflammatory diseases. This study fills this gap by performing a comprehensive in silico analysis of 20 major bioactive compounds of A. indica using molecular docking, binding interaction profiling, and ADMET predictions. Docking against the COX-2 receptor (PDB: 3LN1) using AutoDock Vina revealed that rutin (-10.4 kcal/mol), kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside (-10.1 kcal/mol), quercetin (-9.6 kcal/mol), and luteolin (-9.3 kcal/mol) demonstrated strong predicted affinity and stable interactions with key residues Arg120, Tyr355, and Tyr385, comparable to celecoxib (-10.8 kcal/mol). ADMET profiling showed that aglycone flavonoids possessed more favorable drug-likeness properties than glycosides. These results suggest that A. indica contains multiple promising lead compounds for future COX-2 inhibition studies and highlight the molecular mechanisms supporting its ethnomedicinal use as an anti-inflammatory agent.
Laboratory Detection of Toenail Onychomycosis Using Malt Extract Agar in Students Lisa Savitri; Kharisul Ihsan; Elfred Rinaldo Kasimo
Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry Vol 14, No 2 (2025)
Publisher : Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University & Society for Indonesian Biodiversity

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.14421/biomedich.2025.142.1325-1330

Abstract

Onychomycosis is a common nail disorder caused by dermatophytes, non-dermatophyte molds, and yeasts. Despite being more prevalent in older adults, it is increasingly reported among younger populations, including university students, due to lifestyle factors and communal exposures. Rapid and accurate diagnosis is critical for effective management, but conventional methods remain limited in sensitivity. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and etiological profile of toenail onychomycosis among university students using potassium hydroxide (KOH) microscopy and Malt Extract Agar (MEA) culture. A total of 98 students with clinical signs of onychomycosis provided toenail specimens. Direct microscopy examination with 20% KOH was performed, followed by culture on MEA at 28–30 °C for up to 21 days. Fungal isolates were identified based on macroscopic and microscopic morphology. Statistical analysis assessed associations between clinical features and culture results. KOH microscopy detected fungal elements in 59.2% of specimens, while MEA culture yielded growth in 63.3%. When combined, the overall prevalence of confirmed onychomycosis was 71.4%. Trichophyton rubrum was the most frequent isolate (35.5% of positive cultures), followed by non-dermatophyte molds such as Aspergillus and Fusarium, and yeasts including Candida albicans and Candida parapsilosis. Nail thickening and discoloration were significantly associated with culture positivity (p < 0.05). Onychomycosis is prevalent among university students, with MEA culture providing superior diagnostic yield compared to KOH microscopy alone. The identification of non-dermatophyte molds and yeasts underscores the importance of comprehensive diagnostic strategies for guiding effective treatment. Future studies should combine culture and molecular methods to enhance detection accuracy and clarify the clinical significance of emerging pathogens.
Co-Authors Afrilla, Rananda Agung Dwi Wahyu Widodo Agustanti, Khalimatus Nur Eka Alimansur, Moh Alves, Silvina Sandra X. Amanda, Cornelia Aminah Alfiani Ana Retnowati Anjarwati, Aprilia Antoro, Ester Lianawati Apriana, Dita Arif Budi Setiawan Besan, Emma Jayanti Datin An Nisa Sukmawati Dhony Hermanto Edda, Ilda Rambu Eka Wahyuningtiyas Elfred Rinaldo Kasimo Elfred Rinaldo Kasimo Elfred Rinaldo Kasimo Elfred Rinaldo Kasimo Elfred Rinaldo Kasimo, Elfred Rinaldo Elly Megasari Ester Lianawati Antoro Ester Lianawati Antoro Ester Lianawati Antoro Ester Lianawati Antoro Evi Laela Sari Farabi, Meka Faizal Fendy Prasetyawan Fitri, Devi Nor Freitas, João Gregório Freitas, Maria Do Carmo Da Costa Herman Hilmi, Mochammad Hanif Ida Septika Wulansari Ida Septika Wulansari Ida Septika Wulansari Ida Septika Wulansari Ihsan, Kharisul Indrayanti, Dian Iza Dwi Muslikha Juan Vega Mahardhika Juwita, Syntia Tanu Kadir, Mujtahid Bin Abd Kadir, Mujtahid Bin And Kasimo, Elfred Khalimatus Nur Eka Agustanti Kharisma Rahmasari Kharisul Ihsan Kharisul Ihsan Kholis, Akbar Nur Kholis, Muhammad Akbar Nur Laili, Nur Fahma La’ally Maula Lian Pandu Farendra Loviana, Novi Maria Do Carmo Da Costa Freitas Masyhuri, Aga Adi Mebung, Konradus Klala Megasari, Elly Meri, Meri Mika Tri Kumala Swandari, Mika Tri Kumala Mila Putri Daniati Mochamad Hanif Hilmi Mosse1, Yosep Muhammad Nurul Fadel Muslikha, Iza Dwi Muttaqin, Saiful Neni Probosiwi Novirma Yanti Novyananda Salmasfattah Novyananda Salmasfattah Nur Fahma Laili Nur Fahma Laili Nurul Ismillayli Ornai, Andre Mario Sequeira Alves Rasyadan Taufiq Probojati Renaldi Umbu Ndamung Kale Restyana, Anggi Restyana, Anggy Retnowati, Ana Rochmad Krissanjaya Salmasfattah, Novyananda Sanjaya, Rochmad Kris Shinta Mayasari Shinta Mayasari Sueb Sugeng Santoso Syntia Tanu Juwita Syntia Tanu Juwita Syntia Tanu Juwita Syntia Tanu Juwita Syntia Tanu Juwita Tiyas, Eka Wahyuning Tridoso Sapto A Tsamrotul Ilmi Willy Sandhika Wulansari, Ida Septika Yanti, Novirma Yosep Mosse yunadi, frisca dewi Yuneka Saristiana