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Biosaintifika: Journal of Biology & Biology Education
ISSN : 2085191X     EISSN : 23387610     DOI : https://doi.org/10.15294/biosaintifika
Core Subject : Agriculture,
Biosaintifika: Journal of Biology & Biology Education {PISSN 2085-191X| EISSN 2338-7610} published scientific papers on the results of biology and biology education research {see Focus and Scope}. Editor accepts the article has not been published in other media with the writing format as listed on page manuscript writing guidelines {see Author Guidelines}. The journal published three times a year, on April, August & December and published by Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Negeri Semarang in collaboration with Perhimpunan Biologi Indonesia.
Articles 142 Documents
Bioefficacy of Eugenol-Based Bioinsecticide from Clove Leaf Oil (Syzygium aromaticum) against Brown Planthopper (Nilaparvata lugens) Edy Cahyono; Cindy Maharani; Saffanah Binti Mohd Ab Azid; Samuel Budi Wardhana Kusuma; Dyah Rini Indriyanti; Prayogo Probo Asmoro; Ridho Prasetyo
Biosaintifika: Journal of Biology & Biology Education Vol. 18 No. 2 (2026): August 2026
Publisher : Universitas Negeri Semarang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15294/biosaintifika.v18i2.54211

Abstract

The brown planthopper (Nilaparvata lugens) is one of the most destructive pests of rice, causing significant yield losses and threatening global food security. The extensive use of synthetic insecticides has led to environmental concerns and the development of insecticide resistance, highlighting the need for sustainable alternatives. This study aimed to purify eugenol from clove leaf oil (Syzygium aromaticum), formulate a stable oil-in-water bioinsecticide emulsion, and evaluate its insecticidal and antifeedant activities against N. lugens. Eugenol was enriched through vacuum fractional distillation and characterized using GC-MS, GC, FTIR, and physicochemical analyses. The purified eugenol was subsequently formulated using Tween 80 and ethanol, and its biological activity was assessed through toxicity and honeydew excretion bioassays. Vacuum fractional distillation increased eugenol content from 53.53% to 94.30%. Clove oil and purified eugenol exhibited LC50 values of 0.016% and 0.019%, respectively. In definitive toxicity assays, clove oil caused 90.00% mortality at 0.120%, whereas purified eugenol produced 73.33% mortality at 0.076% after 96 h of exposure. In addition, purified eugenol reduced feeding activity by up to 60%, demonstrating pronounced antifeedant effects. These findings indicate that eugenol contributes to both lethal and sublethal suppression of N. lugens and highlight the potential of clove-derived bioinsecticides as environmentally compatible alternatives for sustainable rice pest management. The study further provides a value-added strategy for utilizing clove leaf oil and contributes to the development of SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 15 (Life on Land).
Effect of BAP and Osmotic Regulators on the Germination of Synthetic Seeds of Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) Parawita Dewanti; Tri Handoyo; Numalasari Numalasari; Falin Fatimatus Shahro; Fakhriyah Nur Khalilah; Hayati Aulia Maharani; Kyung-Min Kim
Biosaintifika: Journal of Biology & Biology Education Vol. 18 No. 2 (2026): August 2026
Publisher : Universitas Negeri Semarang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15294/biosaintifika.v18i2.37607

Abstract

Sugarcane is the raw material for sugar. Limited availability of planting materials has led to a decline in sugar production. The development of synthetic sugarcane seeds offers an alternative for large-scale propagation with long-term storage. This study aims to evaluate the effect of BAP and osmotic regulators on the germination and storage capacity of synthetic sugarcane seeds. The synthetic seeds were produced using the encapsulation technique, whereby basal shoots of the NXI 1-3 sugarcane variety were inserted into 3% sodium alginate and treated with various concentrations of BAP (0 ppm, 0.5 ppm, 1 ppm, 1.5 ppm, 2 ppm), mannitol (0%, 1%, 2%, 3%), and PEG (0%, 1%, 2%, 3%) and then dripped into a 100 mM CaCl2. The results showed that BAP at a concentration of 1.5 ppm provided the best response, with the fastest germination time (4.6 days) and the highest germination percentage (100%). Among the osmotic regulators, 3% mannitol produced the longest germination time (21.75 days), with seed viability of 85% and germination percentage of 60%, demonstrating its effectiveness in extending seed storage life. BAP increases seed viability and growth performance, while mannitol effectively maintains seed dormancy so that it can be used to maintain sugarcane seed availability. This study also supports the achievement of the SDGs, particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) through increased seed production to ensure sugarcane seed availability, and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) through the application of encapsulation methods as a biotechnology innovation to increase seed production.
Phylogenetic Analysis of the Aglaonema Putative MYB Gene for Anthocyanin Regulation in Plants Wita Yuningsih; Adin Heriyan Nugroho; Khansa Nabilah; Suprayogi Suprayogi; Suwarto Suwarto; Alkhader Mokhaer; Eka Oktaviani
Biosaintifika: Journal of Biology & Biology Education Vol. 18 No. 2 (2026): August 2026
Publisher : Universitas Negeri Semarang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15294/biosaintifika.v18i2.44998

Abstract

The red colour in Aglaonema leaves is influenced by anthocyanin accumulation, which is synthesized through a series of reactions catalyzed by specific enzymes. These proteins are encoded by genes regulated by transcription factors, among which the MYB gene family plays a vital role. The research aimed to identify a putative MYB gene in Aglaonema that encodes an MYB-transcription factor and analyze its relationship with several previously reported MYB genes involved in anthocyanin regulation. We aligned six gene sequences from Araceae and used a highly conserved region among five sequences to design the AMYB primer. Phylogenetic analysis of the Aglaonema putative MYB gene (amplified by the AMYB primer) and three previously characterized MYB genes from other plant species revealed that the AMYB primer was successfully constructed with optimal properties. The Aglaonema putative MYB gene sequence shares the highest similarity with HvMYB, known to activate HvMYC2 – a gene strongly associated with anthocyanin expression in plants, highlighted by a bootstrap value of 97% and a genetic distance of 0.3. The findings provide a reference for primer design and gene identification in Aglaonema, contributing valuable data for genetic conservation and plant breeding programs. This research supports the Sustainable Development Goals of Good Health and Well-Being (number 3) and Life on Land (number 15). Aglaonema plants, developed to produce unique leaf color patterns, can improve farmers' economic well-being and, in turn, enhance their overall well-being. Furthermore, Aglaonema development can enrich ornamental germplasm collections, thereby contributing to increased biodiversity in Indonesia.
Antibacterial Activity and Salinity Tolerance of Endophytic Bacteria Isolated from Marine Macroalgae Umi Fatmawati; Muhammad Ilham Faturrahim; Maria Indah Purnamasari
Biosaintifika: Journal of Biology & Biology Education Vol. 18 No. 2 (2026): August 2026
Publisher : Universitas Negeri Semarang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15294/biosaintifika.v18i2.35980

Abstract

Marine organisms, especially macroalgae, are unique microhabitats for endophytic bacteria that have the potential to provide unique microhabitats for endophytic bacteria that can produce bioactive compounds with antimicrobial activity.  However, the exploration of endophytic bacteria from marine macroalgae, especially those directly associated with host tissues, remains relatively limited. This study aims to isolate endophytic bacteria from various macroalgae and explore the antibacterial potential and salinity resistance of these endophytic isolates. This study aims to identify the potential isolates that produce antibacterial compounds at the molecular level. The antibacterial activity was qualitatively evaluated using the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method. The salinity tolerance of the bacterial isolates was assessed by growing them on media with varying NaCl concentrations. Molecular identification of the isolates was performed through 16S rRNA gene amplification and sequence analysis. The results showed that isolate H3 had the highest antibacterial activity against Bacillus subtillis and Staphylococcus aureus, with inhibition zones of 28.9 + 2.3 mm and 26.2 + 4.36 mm, respectively. Isolate R1A showed the highest inhibitory activity on S. aureus and Escherichia coli, with inhibition zones of 25 + 1.08 mm and 35 + 2.9 mm. Salinity resistance test results showed that isolate R1A was able to grow well at a 10% (w/v) NaCl concentration. Molecular identification results with 16S rRNA gene analysis showed that isolate H3 has similarities with the species Lysinibacillus fusiformis, isolate R1A has similarities with Bacillus mojavensis, and R2C has similarities with Bacillus stercosis. This study suggests that endophytic bacteria from macroalgae represent promising and sustainable sources of novel antibacterial agents for pathogen control in high-salinity aquaculture systems. This study aligns with SDG 3 and SDG 14 by supporting human health initiatives and the sustainable utilization of marine biodiversity.
Insect Diversity in Horticultural Crops Frequently Sprayed with Pesticides Dyah Rini Indriyanti; Priyantini Widiyaningrum; Orchida Puspa Jelita; Laila Khoirun Nada; Delia Alifia Farreza; Putri Eka Erwanti; Noorhidayah Mamat
Biosaintifika: Journal of Biology & Biology Education Vol. 18 No. 2 (2026): August 2026
Publisher : Universitas Negeri Semarang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15294/biosaintifika.v18i2.54405

Abstract

Insect diversity reflects the complex interaction between insects and their environment, as demonstrated by their various functional roles, including pollinators, predators, parasitoids, decomposers, and phytophage. In horticultural ecosystems, insect diversity can indicate environmental stability because insects help maintain ecosystem balance and support crop productivity through various ecological interactions. This study aimed to analyze insect diversity in horticultural crops frequently sprayed with pesticides located in Bawen, Semarang Regency, Indonesia. The research was conducted in horticultural plantations to collect insect diversity data using hand-collecting and pitfall trap methods. The insect diversity data were analyzed using the Shannon-Wiener diversity index (H), the evenness index (E) and Simpson's dominance index (D), and Environmental factors. The results show that 4,142 insects were found in this study, belonging to 8 orders, 43 families, and 69 species. The insect diversity index indicates a highly diverse insect community with relatively even distribution of individuals among species and low species dominance, suggesting that the horticultural crops in Bawen are ecologically stable, despite routine pesticide application. Seasonal transition and pesticide use show limited variation in their influence on insect diversity. This study supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 15 (Life on Land), by conserving insect biodiversity in horticultural ecosystems.  
Hypoxia-Induced Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Exosome Enhance TGF-β, PDGF, and Hair Growth in Alopecia-Like Rat Models Yoshi Puspitasari; Sri Priyantini Mulyani; Eko Setiawan
Biosaintifika: Journal of Biology & Biology Education Vol. 18 No. 1 (2026): April 2026
Publisher : Universitas Negeri Semarang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15294/biosaintifika.v18i1.28431

Abstract

Alopecia disrupts hair growth, leading to hair loss and baldness. Hypoxia-induced mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)–derived exosomes have emerged as a promising therapeutic alternative. These exosomes can modulate inflammatory responses and potentially enhance the expression of TGF-β and PDGF, key growth factors involved in hair follicle regeneration. This study aims to investigate the effects of hypoxia-induced MSC exosomes on TGF-β and PDGF expression in a fluconazole-induced alopecia-like rat model. Five groups were used: K1 (healthy control), K2 (fluconazole-induced, 0.9% NaCl), K3 (Minoxidil), K4 (100 µL hypoxia-induced MSC exosomes), and K5 (200 µL hypoxia-induced MSC exosomes). Skin samples were collected on day 15 post-treatment for analysis of TGF-β and PDGF levels using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Based on the analysis, the highest levels of TGF-β and PDGF were found in K1, followed by K5 and K4, while the lowest levels were observed in K2. This study finds that the single-dose injection of 200 µl of EH-MSCs daily for 14 days significantly increases the levels of TGF-β and PDGF in the skin, which contributes to improved hair growth. This study assumes that TGF-β and PDGF potentially improve hair growth through immunomodulation and a pro-angiogenic mechanism. These findings suggest that hypoxia-induced MSC exosomes represent a promising therapeutic strategy for alopecia and may be developed broadly for regenerative medicine targeting chronic inflammation-based skin disorders. However, further studies are needed to explore more about various cytokine and their function that relevance for alopecia and other inflammation-related skin conditions.
Growth Performance, Antioxidant, and Teratogenic Activity of Panaeolus antillarum Submerged-cultured in Coconut Water Enriched with Ascorbic Acid Reynante G. Bustillos; Emerita S. Caymo
Biosaintifika: Journal of Biology & Biology Education Vol. 18 No. 1 (2026): April 2026
Publisher : Universitas Negeri Semarang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15294/biosaintifika.v18i1.30169

Abstract

Panaeolus antillarum is a mushroom commonly growing in animal dung, which has been identified to possess promising medicinal properties. This present study investigated the mycelial growth performance and bioactivities of Panaeolus antillarum in coconut water supplemented with varying concentrations of ascorbic acid. Methanolic extract of the culture-spent supplemented with the different amounts of ascorbic acid (0 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg) was used to determine the total phenolic contents (Folin-Ciocalteu), antioxidant (DPPH radical scavenging activity), cytotoxic activity, and teratogenic effects in zebra fish embryo. Statistical analysis revealed the highest mycelial yield in 0 mg (control) and 5 mg with 2.06 g and 1.92 g, respectively, while the lowest was recorded in 20 mg with 0.98 g. The highest volume loss was also registered in 0 mg (18.17 mL), which was significantly different from other concentrations.  Panaeolus antillarum with 20 mg of ascorbic acid obtained the highest phenolic content (313.76 mg AAE/g sample) and maximum radical scavenging activity (83.08%). Regardless of the presence of ascorbic acid, all culture-spent of P. antillarum exhibited a toxic effect after 36 hours, with 100% mortality. Furthermore, the varying amounts of P. antillarum affected zebra fish embryos hatchability. Growth retardation was the only noted teratogenic effect of the spent material. Hence, P. antillarum could be a promising source of natural bioactive compounds that can be further studied for the possible development of pharmaceutical drugs. With these beneficial effects, this study particularly supports the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3 and 15. Mushrooms are ecologically significant species in the forest and other land areas and are significantly utilized for the promotion of good health. Thus, conservation and protection of these species is necessary.
Optimization of Culture Condition for the Mycelial Growth of  Pleurotus ostreatus (Sporeless Strain) Maria Christina Rochelle Zaragoza; Laurence G. Almoguera
Biosaintifika: Journal of Biology & Biology Education Vol. 18 No. 1 (2026): April 2026
Publisher : Universitas Negeri Semarang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15294/biosaintifika.v18i1.30474

Abstract

  The cultivation of Pleurotus ostreatus mushrooms has gained popularity in the Philippines because of its ability to grow across a wide range of temperatures and to utilize diverse lignocellulosic substrates. However, optimizing culture conditions is essential for improving the growth efficiency of sporeless strains, which are preferred due to reduced health risks and better quality of mushroom products. This study aimed to determine the optimum cultural conditions for the mycelial growth of P. ostreatus (sporeless strain) by evaluating the effects of media type, pH level, aeration (sealed vs. unsealed plates), illumination (dark, light, or alternating dark/light), and incubation temperature. Mycelial growth was assessed across five different culture media and varying environmental conditions. Results revealed that rice bran decoction gulaman supported the most favorable growth, with near-neutral to slightly basic pH, under sealed or non-aerated conditions. Growth was consistent across dark, light, or alternating illumination, and was optimal at both room temperature and air-conditioned settings. These findings demonstrate that the sporeless strain exhibits strong adaptability to diverse conditions, reducing cultivation constraints compared with spore-forming counterparts. This research establishes the specific cultural requirements for the sporeless strain, which has been less studied despite its advantages. Optimizing its growth conditions can enhance mushroom production efficiency, minimize spore-related health risks for growers, and promote sustainable utilization of local agro-industrial byproducts, contributing to food security and rural livelihood development. This research supports SDGs by contributing to SDGs 2 (Zero Hunger) through improved mushroom production efficiency and food security; SDGs 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by reducing spore-related occupational health risks; SDGs 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by strengthening livelihood opportunities in small-scale enterprises; SDGs 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) through the sustainable use of agro-industrial byproducts; and SDGs 13 (Climate Action) by promoting resource-efficient cultivation practices aligned with the sustainability framework of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Insertion of Three Genes Encoding Polyhydroxybutyrate into Escherichia coli BL21 as the First Host: A Preliminary Exploration of Plasmid Transformant Ganies Riza Aristya; Azizah Tyas Nugrahanty; Lucia Arum Sekar Meysari; Bagas Alfian Dwiaryanda; Arief Muammar; Afif Pranaya Jati; Muhammad Fauzi Arif; Abdul Rahman Siregar; Imam Bagus Nugroho; Hong-Wei Yen
Biosaintifika: Journal of Biology & Biology Education Vol. 18 No. 1 (2026): April 2026
Publisher : Universitas Negeri Semarang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15294/biosaintifika.v18i1.33054

Abstract

The use of biodegradable plastics presents a sustainable option as concerns about the environmental effects of petroleum-based plastics grow. PHB (polyhydroxybutyrate) is one of the biodegradable biopolymers, which can be produced by Escherichia coli encoded by the PhaA, PhaB, and PhaC genes. This research aims to determine and study the ability of E. coli BL21 as a host in transforming the PhaA, PhaB, and PhaC genes encoding PHB, and characterizing successful E. coli BL21 carrying each gene. Recombinant plasmids carrying PhaA, PhaB, and PhaC genes were constructed by cloning into a pUC57 vector and transformed into E. coli BL21 by electroporation. The positive transformants were analyzed using colony-PCR, restriction digestion, and Sanger Sequencing to confirm the successful insertion of the target. Recombinant plasmids were isolated, purified, and verified, obtaining target fragments of 1195bp for PhaA, 752bp for PhaB, and 1786bp for PhaC. The results showed that E. coli BL21 bacteria could act as a transformation host for the recombinant plasmid carrying the PhaA, PhaB, and PhaC genes, which was confirmed through growth on ampicillin LB medium. The PhaA, PhaB, and PhaC genes were successfully transformed with recombinant E. coli BL21 and showed a gene size of 1195 bp, 752 bp, and 1786 bp, respectively. Based on sequences analyses showed a high percent identity and query cover against the reference gene database (KP681582, KP681583, and KP681584). The entire PhaA, PhaB, and PhaC gene sequence has been inserted into recombinant cells, with the result of cutting according to the gene band size and the pUC57 plasmid size. This study provides a foundation for the optimal expression of PHB in recombinant bacteria and serves as a reference in designing genetic transformation strategies for E. coli BL21. The method is also of industrial relevance for replacing or reducing conventional plastics, thereby boosting the circular bioeconomy and directly contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, especially in SDG 9 which focuses in industry, innovation, and infrastructure and SDG 12 which focuses in responsible consumption and production.
GC-MS Profiles, Anti-inflammatory and Antibacterial Activities of Mucuna pruriens Seed Against Gastrointestinal Pathogens Musa'adah Musa'adah; Yani Suryani; Adisty Virakawugi Darniwa; Muna Mumtazah; Muhammad Wisnu Burhanuddin; Ahmad Zaenal Ependi
Biosaintifika: Journal of Biology & Biology Education Vol. 18 No. 1 (2026): April 2026
Publisher : Universitas Negeri Semarang

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15294/biosaintifika.v18i1.33258

Abstract

Escherichia coli and Bacillus cereus are pathogenic bacteria commonly implicated in gastrointestinal infection (GI). Severe GI can lead to some gastrointestinal diseases, such as diarrhea, gastroenteritis, and chronic inflammation. While antibiotic therapy remains the standard treatment, the rise in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) cases necessitates alternative therapeutic approaches. This study aimed to investigate the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory potential of Velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens L.) and to identify its bioactive compounds using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Antibacterial activity was assessed against E. coli and B. cereus using the disc diffusion method. Meanwhile, anti-inflammatory activity was measured by the red blood cell membrane stabilization method at extract concentrations of 15, 60, 250, and 1000 ppm. Antibacterial effectiveness was determined by measuring the diameter of inhibition zones, while anti-inflammatory potential was quantified through stability percentages. The results showed that the velvet bean’s ethanolic extract had antibacterial activity against both bacteria, with the strongest inhibition observed at 100% extract concentration, producing inhibition zones of 9.2 mm on E. coli and 7.15 mm on B. cereus. For the anti-inflammatory assay, the 1000 ppm extract demonstrated the highest stability value (76.36%), nearly equivalent to the standard non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), ibuprofen (76.35% at 120 ppm), as a positive control. GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of 18 bioactive compounds in the velvet bean extract, classified into nine chemical groups, which are mostly known for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory potential. These findings highlight the potential of M. pruriens to address gastrointestinal infections, particularly those caused by E. coli and B. cereus, as well as its anti-inflammatory effect. This also contributes to achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs), especially to encourage good health in the community through utilizing local resources for herbal-based treatment.