Molekul: Jurnal Ilmiah Kimia
The MOLEKUL is dedicated to fostering advancements in all branches of chemistry and its diverse sub-disciplines. It aims to publish high-quality research encompassing a wide range of topics, including but not limited to Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Biological Activities of Synthetic Drugs, Environmental Chemistry, Biochemistry, Polymer Chemistry, Petroleum Chemistry, and Agricultural Chemistry. By providing a platform for rigorous scientific inquiry and dissemination of knowledge, the journal strives to contribute to the understanding, innovation, and practical applications of chemistry in various fields. We encourage submissions that explore new methodologies, elucidate fundamental principles, address pressing challenges, and demonstrate the potential for real-world impact. Our journal welcomes original research articles, reviews, and perspectives from researchers, scholars, and professionals across the global scientific community, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and the advancement of chemical sciences. The scope of this journal encompasses a wide range of topics within the field of chemistry, with a particular focus on advancing knowledge and innovation in the following areas: 1. Theoretical Chemistry and Environmental Chemistry: This includes theoretical studies, computational modeling, and experimental investigations related to chemical reactivity, molecular structures, spectroscopy, and the environmental fate and impact of chemicals. 2. Materials Synthesis for Energy and Environmental Applications: The journal welcomes research on the synthesis, characterization, and application of materials for energy storage, catalysis, solar energy conversion, pollution mitigation, and sustainable environmental technologies. 3. Isolation, Purification, and Modification of Biomolecules: Manuscripts addressing the isolation, purification, and modification of biomolecules, such as proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids, along with their applications in areas such as biotechnology, drug discovery, and diagnostics, are of particular interest. 4. Fabrication, Development, and Validation of Analytical Methods: The journal encourages submissions focusing on the development and optimization of analytical techniques, including chromatography, spectroscopy, electrochemistry, and mass spectrometry. Topics may include method validation, sample preparation, quality control, and applications in diverse fields.
Articles
218 Documents
Biochemical Composition and Digestive Enzyme Activity of Anguilla bicolor McClelland 1844 on Reproductive Phase
Rachmawati, Farida Nur;
Susilo, Untung;
Hana, Hana
Molekul Vol 20 No 1 (2025)
Publisher : Universitas Jenderal Soedirman
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DOI: 10.20884/1.jm.2025.20.1.12940
ABSTRACT. The critical problems in eel cultivation are slow growth due to low digestibility and high feed conversion. This shows the need to understand the biochemical composition of eel to obtain information about the physiological condition, energetic adaptation, habits, nutritional value, and industrial uses. Nutritional data are also essential to develop a suitable processing method that enables eel to be consumed throughout the year while respecting state-imposed limitations to protect the species. Despite the significant contribution, there has been no data about the biochemical composition and the digestive enzyme activity of eel species such as Anguilla bicolor McClelland 1844, during the reproductive phase. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the biochemical composition of A. bicolor McClelland and the digestive enzyme activity during the reproductive phase. The experiment was conducted through a survey on eels in the reproductive phase with an average weight and length of yellow (106.00 ± 38.1 g and 42.00± 5.78 cm) and silver eel (362.89 ± 88.93 g and 59.86 ± 7.39 cm) respectively. The results showed that Nitrogen Free Extract (NFE) did not substantially alter between different phases, while the percent protein, lipid, ash, and fiber had significant variation (p<0.05). The activity of pepsin differed in various phases (p<0.05), while the activity of trypsin, amylase, and lipase of A. bicolor did not vary (p>0.05). The yellow eel had a higher body protein composition and pepsin activity than the silver eel, although the biochemical composition and other enzyme activities were similar. In summary, the biochemical compositions, and digestive enzymes of A. bicolor varied depending on their phases. Moreover, further studies were recommended to understand the biochemical composition of A. bicolor and digestive enzyme activity during the reproductive phase. Keywords: Anguilla bicolor, Digestive enzyme activity, Proximate analysis
Regional Variations in rpoB Gene Mutations and Their Association with Rifampicin Resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Widodo, Widodo;
Wahyono, Daniel Joko;
Oedjijono, Oedjijono;
Pramono, Hendro
Molekul Vol 20 No 1 (2025)
Publisher : Universitas Jenderal Soedirman
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DOI: 10.20884/1.jm.2025.20.1.13215
ABSTRACT. The increasing incidence of tuberculosis (TB) remains a global challenge, driven by the emergence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis resistance to antituberculosis drugs. This study investigated the relationship between rpoB gene mutations, rifampicin resistance levels, and the geographic origin of multidrug-resistant M. tuberculosis (MDR-TB) isolates. A total of 30 MDR-TB isolates were collected from the Central Java Provincial Health and Calibration Testing Laboratory between January and December 2023. Rifampicin resistance levels ranged from 5 to 80 µg/mL and were assessed using the microculture method, while DNA sequencing identified rpoB mutations. The results showed that rifampicin exposure significantly influenced rpoB mutation frequencies, with Ser531Leu (50%), His526 (16.7%), Leu511 (6%), Leu533 (6%), and Gln513 (6%) being the most common. Geographic variations were observed, with isolates from the ex-residencies Pekalongan, Pati, and Banyumas Residencies harboring seven, six, and four distinct mutations, respectively. Mutations such as Leu511Arg+His526Ser and Asp516Val were detected at low rifampicin concentrations (5–10 µg/mL), whereas Ser531Leu mutations dominated at moderate levels (20–80 µg/mL). These findings confirmed that rpoB mutations were influenced by both the region of origin and rifampicin resistance levels, providing critical insights for improving TB diagnosis and optimizing MDR-TB treatment strategies. Keywords: Mycobacterium tuberculosis, rifampicin resistance, rpoB gene mutation
Study on Properties Influence of Carbon Fiber-reinforced Polyimide Composites using Melamine as a Crosslinking Agent
Shiediqque, Apang Djafar;
Widarman, Agung;
Suriaman, Irwan;
Zahra, Ghefira Iftina;
Maesaroh, Kiki;
Edwin, Rudiawan;
Laksmono, Joddy Arya
Molekul Vol 20 No 1 (2025)
Publisher : Universitas Jenderal Soedirman
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DOI: 10.20884/1.jm.2025.20.1.13317
ABSTRACT: Advances in carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) technology remain critical, particularly in meeting the demand for lightweight and durable materials in the transportation industry. With the advent of electric vehicles (EVs), there is a pressing need for composite materials that offer not only exceptional mechanical strength but also high-temperature stability and heat resistance. Polyimide, known for its excellent heat resistance and flame retardancy properties, is an optimal choice for developing such composites. Furthermore, the incorporation of melamine as a crosslinker in polyimide has been shown to significantly enhance its performance. Our study involved the production of a carbon fiber reinforced composite with a melamine crosslinked polyimide matrix (CFMPI), to meet these critical requirements. The composite showed a tensile strength of 84.17 MPa, a tensile modulus of 1899.14 MPa at 1.5% mole substitution of 4,4’‑oxydianiline by melamine as a crosslinker for polyimide with thermal stability up to 562 °C. These results indicated that this composite material is highly suitable for use in EVs. Keywords: advanced composites, carbon fiber reinforced polymer, lightweight materials, melamine-crosslinker, polyimide composites.
Kojic Acid from the Ethyl Acetate Fraction of Terminalia catappa Linn Fruit Flesh and its anti-cancer activity against HeLa cells
Chasani, Moch.;
Widyaningsih, Senny;
Rastuti, Undri;
Hanafi, Muhammad;
Fauzi, Kevin Azhar;
Azahra, Silena
Molekul Vol 20 No 1 (2025)
Publisher : Universitas Jenderal Soedirman
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DOI: 10.20884/1.jm.2025.20.1.13579
ABSTRACT. The ethyl acetate fraction of Terminalia catappa Linn. fruit flesh has anti-cancer activity against HeLa cells, with IC50 value is =165.37 ppm. The aim of this research is to isolate active anticancer compound from the ethyl acetate fraction of T. catappa fruit flesh. Anti-cancer active compounds from the ethyl acetate fraction of T. catappa fruit flesh were purified using column chromatography and continued with recrystallization. The compound isolate from the ethyl acetate fraction is clear yellowish crystals and has a melting point 150 ± 2 oC, has anti-cancer activity against HeLa cells of IC50 =413.695 ppm. Results of molecular structure identification using UV spectroscopy; FTIR; 1HNMR, 13CNMR and LC-MS are thought to be the compound 5-Hydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)-4H-pyran-4- one (Kojic acid) with a molecular weight of 142.36 gram/mol. The Kojic acid content in T. catappa Linn fruit flesh was found to provide information on the potential use of T. catappa fruit flesh extract in the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries. Keywords: Anticancer activity, HeLa cells, Kojic acid, T. catappa Linn.
Optimization of Chitosan-Based Edible Film with the Addition of Velvet Bean Aqueous Extract and Cinnamon Essential Oil for Antibacterial Packaging
Ariani, Sri Retno Dwi;
Sholihah, Khoirur Rohmaniatush;
Susilowati, Endang;
Setyowati, Widiastuti Agustina Eko;
Munifah, Ifah;
Rohmatun, Tyas Dwi;
Safitri, Nadia Indri
Molekul Vol 20 No 1 (2025)
Publisher : Universitas Jenderal Soedirman
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DOI: 10.20884/1.jm.2025.20.1.13671
ABSTRACT. The current global warming issue has encouraged a lot of research on edible films. The use of edible films has become an international trend and is now essential for our products to compete in the global market. Bioactive compounds from plants can be incorporated into edible films to enhance their biological activity, including their antibacterial properties. This study developed a chitosan-based edible film with the addition of velvet bean aqueous extract (VAE) and cinnamon essential oil (CEO), aiming for high antibacterial activity. The objectives of this study were to isolate and identify the chemical components of CEO, test its antibacterial activity, find the most optimum formulation of a chitosan-based edible film with VAE and CEO in terms of antibacterial activity (Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923), and analyze the physical and morphological properties of the resulting edible film. The research methods included a literature review and laboratory experiments, with procedures involving the isolation and GC-MS-based identification of CEO chemical components, antibacterial activity testing of CEO, optimization of a chitosan-based edible film formulation with the addition of VAE and CEO based on antibacterial activity test against E. coli ATCC 25922 and S. aureus ATCC 25923 (well diffusion method), and characterization of the best film’s physical properties (thickness, tensile strength, elongation, solubility, WVP, and WVTR) and morphological analysis (SEM method). The results of this study were as follows: (a) CEO contained cinnamaldehyde (52.86%) and 2- methoxycinnamaldehyde (47.06%); (b) CEO had very strong antibacterial activity against E. coli ATCC 25922 and S. aureus ATCC 25923, with inhibition zones of 46.28 mm and 47.95 mm, respectively; (c) the most optimal edible film formulation consisted of chitosan with 30.0% VAE and 4.0% CEO, yielding strong antibacterial activity against E. coli ATCC 25922 (15.50 mm inhibition) and S. aureus ATCC 25923 (16.71 mm inhibition), with a thickness of 0.15 mm, tensile strength of 0.32 Mpa, elongation of 0.32%, solubility of 4.89%, WVP of 8.82 g/m2.h), and WVTR of 3.92 g/m.h. Morphological analysis of the edible film showed a relatively flat and smooth surface with minor cracks in some areas. Keywords: antibacterial packaging, chitosan, cinnamon essential oil, edible film, velvet bean aqueous extract
Synthesis of TiO2-Activated Carbon from Coffee Dregs by Hydrothermal Method for Photodegradation of Diazinon
Haryati, Tanti;
Zakaria, Helmy Ahmad;
Sutisna, Sutisna;
Suwardiyanto, Suwardiyanto;
Sulistiyo, Yudi Aris;
Andarini, Novita
Molekul Vol 20 No 1 (2025)
Publisher : Universitas Jenderal Soedirman
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DOI: 10.20884/1.jm.2025.20.1.13714
ABSTRACT. The photocatalytic activity of TiO₂ can be enhanced by binding it to materials with high adsorption capacity. The synthesis began with the mixture of 5 mL TTIP, 30 mL ethanol, and H₂O 30 mL stirred for 1 hour. Activated carbon made from coffee grounds in varying amounts (5 g, 10 g, and 15 g) was then added to the TTIP solution, and the mixture was stirred for 2 hours. The mixture was then placed in an autoclave, heated at 180°C for 12 hours, dried, and then calcined at 500°C for 3 hours. SEM morphological analysis showed that TiO₂ particles were attached to the surface of the activated carbon, which was further confirmed by EDX data showing the presence of Ti and O elements in the synthesized material. Furthermore, crystallinity and gap analyses demonstrated that the material was exclusively in the anatase phase. The largest surface area, 286.10 m²/g, was observed on titanium dioxide-activated carbon/10 (TiO₂-AC/10), exhibiting a mesoporous structure and microporous features. Photocatalytic tests for diazinon degradation demonstrated that TiO₂-AC/10 exhibited the most significant photocatalytic activity of 65.18%. The composite material's degradation capability diminished by 9-13% from the initial to the third cycle. The residual titanium elements within the composite material maintained stability, suggesting the integrity and durability of TiO₂ particles affixed to the surface of activated carbon. Keywords: TiO2-AC, Coffee Dregs, Diazinon, Photocatalysis, Reusability
Response Surface Methodology to Optimize Laccase Produced from Pleurotus ostreatus Using Corn Cob and Rice Bran as Substrate
Hermansyah, Hermansyah;
Gozali, Maftuh;
Julinar, Julinar;
Fanani, Zainal;
Loekitowati Hariani, Poedji
Molekul Vol 20 No 1 (2025)
Publisher : Universitas Jenderal Soedirman
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DOI: 10.20884/1.jm.2025.20.1.14472
ABSTRACT. Laccase is an industrially significant enzyme capable of oxidizing a broad range of phenolic compounds, making it valuable for applications such as bioremediation, textile dye decolorization, and pulp bleaching. Therefore, this study aimed to optimize laccase production from Pleurotus ostreatus using agricultural waste substrates corn cob (BJ), rice bran (DP), and their 1:1 mixture (BJ:DP) through Response Surface Methodology (RSM). Extracellular laccase was obtained by centrifuging the cultured medium, followed by ammonium sulfate precipitation and dialysis. The enzyme activity was quantified, and the fraction with the highest specific activity was analyzed using SDS-PAGE. Furthermore, Central Composite Design (CCD) was used to assess the effects of three independent variables, namely ABTS concentration (0.01–0.1 mM), incubation temperature (20–30 °C), and reaction time (20–30 minutes). The results showed that for BJ substrate, the highest enzyme activity (13.7 ± 0.05 U/mL) was observed in the 0–20% ammonium sulfate fraction, with specific activities of 76.25 ± 0.09 U/mg and 90.28 ± 0.03 U/mg in the 0–20% and 20–40% fractions, respectively. Conversely, DP substrate achieved a maximum specific activity of 209.67 ± 0.028 U/mg in the 20–40% fraction. The crude extract from BJ:DP mixture showed a high protein content (0.636 ± 0.006 mg/mL) but the specific activity was substantially lower (19.33 ± 0.003 U/mg). Based on RSM analysis, the optimal conditions were ABTS concentration of 0.05 mM, incubation temperature of 22.21 °C, and reaction time of 28.64 minutes, resulting in a predicted laccase activity of 13.99 U/mL. Keywords: Corn cob, Laccase, Pleurotus ostreatus, Response Surface Methodology, Rice bran
Isolation and Purification of Breast Milk Folate Binding Protein: Salting-Out and Chromatography Techniques
Saleh, Mgs. M. Irsan;
Subandrate, Subandrate;
Gunarti, Dwirini Retno;
Hermansyah, Hermansyah;
Hafy, Zen;
Kesuma, Yudianita;
Sadikin, Mohamad
Molekul Vol 20 No 1 (2025)
Publisher : Universitas Jenderal Soedirman
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DOI: 10.20884/1.jm.2025.20.1.11303
ABSTRACT. Folate binding protein (FBP) is a protein in breast milk that plays a role in the regulation and bioavailability of folic acid. In contrast to cow's milk FBP, information about breast milk FBP is still limited. This research aims to determine the isolation and purification methods of breast milk FBP and the molecular weight of breast milk FBP. The sample in this study was 1000 mL of breast milk. Breast milk was prepared in several stages to yield whey. Isolation and purification of FBP from whey were carried out in stages, salting-out, ion exchange chromatography, and affinity chromatography. Whey salting-out with 95% saturation of ammonium sulfate could precipitate folate-binding proteins. This precipitate showed three peaks on DEAE chromatography. Peak II DEAE 95% was thought to be a negatively charged folate-binding protein. Peak II DEAE 95% also showed the presence of two peaks on affinity chromatography. It was believed that Peak II AF 95% was a pure folate-binding protein. Peak II AF 95% showed the presence of a single band on SDS-PAGE and western blot. This indicated that the folate-binding protein was 100% pure. FBP can be isolated from breast milk by the salting-out method using 95% ammonium sulfate, DEAE chromatography, and affinity chromatography. FBP from breast milk has a molecular weight of approximately 37 kDa. The final level of FBP isolated from breast milk is approximately 0.022 mg/mL. The successful isolation of FBP from breast milk provides an opportunity to use it to understand the clinical role of FBP in increasing folic acid levels in both breast milk and infant serum, as well as to develop methods for determining folic acid levels in these fluids. Keywords: Breast milk, folate binding protein, isolation, purification, molecular weight
Optimizing Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell Efficiency with a Triple Blend of Caesalpinia sappan L., Dracaena angustifolia, and Clitoria ternatea L.
Kusumawati, Nita;
Rahmawati, Khofifatul;
Setiarso, Pirim;
Muslim, Supari;
Zakiyah, Nafisatus;
Fachrirakarsie, Fadlurachman Faizal
Molekul Vol 20 No 1 (2025)
Publisher : Universitas Jenderal Soedirman
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DOI: 10.20884/1.jm.2025.20.1.12063
ABSTRACT. Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) offer a promising sustainable solution to global electricity challenges by converting sunlight into electricity using photosensitive dyes. This study explores the performance of DSSCs using natural dyes from sappanwood (Caesalpinia sappan L.), pandan leaves (Dracaena angustifolia), and telang flowers (Clitoria ternatea L.). Extraction of the dyes was done through maceration, with combinations made in single, double, and triple-component blends. UV-Vis spectroscopy showed increased light absorption in the 400-700 nm range. Combination F5 uniquely showed absorption peaks at 534.22, 573.64, 619.12, and 664.21 nm, which were affected by nine conjugated double bonds and electron transfer from C=C and carbonyl groups. Comparative band gap energy analysis showed that the triple-blending dyes exhibited the lowest energy range of 0.3392-0.4469 eV, compared to the double dye (0.4549-0.5778 eV) and single dye (0.4541-0.6248 eV), indicating better light harvesting ability. FTIR analysis confirmed the chemical structure of the dye. Prominent spectroscopic features include a broad band of 3332 cm-1 for hydroxyl groups, peaks at 2919 cm-1 and 1732 cm-1 representing alkane and carboxyl groups in cellulose, and an aromatic lignin C=C stretch at 1672 cm-1. The optimized F5 blend (1:2:1 ratio) achieved the highest solar cell efficiency of 3.24% with a band gap of 0.3392 eV. These results validate the potential of natural dye blends as DSSC sensitizers, showing enhanced absorption spectrum, improved stability, and increased electric current generation. Keywords: Dye-sensitized solar cells, Triple-component blending, Caesalpinia sappan L., Dracaena angustifolia, Clitoria ternatea L.
Partial Purification and Characterization of Urease from Red Lentils (Vicia lens (L.) Coss. & Germ.)
Zusfahair, Zusfahair;
Ningsih, Dian Riana;
Bilalodin, Bilalodin;
Fatoni, Amin;
Setiawan, Ely;
Sulistyowati, Aris
Molekul Vol 20 No 1 (2025)
Publisher : Universitas Jenderal Soedirman
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DOI: 10.20884/1.jm.2025.20.1.12920
ABSTRACT. Urease is an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of urea into ammonia and carbon dioxide. A significant application of urease is found primarily in food, medical equipment and biosensor industries. This research aims to analyze the amino acid content of red lentil seeds and the extraction, purification, and characterization of urease from red lentils. The study started by analyzing the amino acid content in red lentil seeds using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). The red lentil seeds were extracted using phosphate buffer pH 7.0 and separated using centrifugal separation technique until crude extract of urease was produced. The crude extract of urease was then concentrated using acetone at varied saturation level (33, 41, 50, 60, and 67%). The fraction with the highest specific activity was then analyzed using SDS-PAGE method and characterized for its pH, incubation temperature, and substrate concentration against the urease activity. The urease activity was determined using Nessler method. The research results showed that red lentils seeds contained all essential amino acids. The highest specific activity was found in the fraction at 50% acetone saturation level (F50) and purity level 6.3 times than the crude extract. The characterization result indicated that F50 was purer than the crude extract. The optimum urease activity of crude extract and F50 was obtained at pH 7.0 and an incubation temperature of 35 °C. The KM value of F50 was lower than crude extract. F50 has a higher affinity for binding to substrates so that the enzyme has higher efficiency in forming the products. Urease from red lentil seeds concentrated using acetone was 50% more potent as a catalyst than the crude extract. The research data will be the basis for the application of this urease. Keywords: Acetone, characterization, partial purification, red lentil, urease