• Home
  • Achivements
  • page. 3
Arsip:

Achivements

Presenting the Potential of DNA Barcoding to Enhance Superior Genetic Screening in Indonesian Sugarcane, UGM Biocane Team Wins Silver-Equivalent Award in Poster Category at PIMNAS 37 Universitas Airlangga

Achivements Sunday, 20 October 2024

The 37th National Student Scientific Week (PIMNAS), held from October 14 to 18, 2024, at Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, carried the theme “Competing to Hone the Creativity of Indonesia’s Talented Students into Solution-Oriented, Innovative, and Productive Individuals.” This event serves as the pinnacle of national-scale student scientific activities, providing a platform for scholarly interactions, knowledge exchange, and communication of innovative creations among students.


The UGM Biocane PKM-RE Team, led by Tiara Putria Judith from the Faculty of Biology UGM, along with Salfa Athallah Agtari Nabillah (Biology 2021), Thoriq Abdul Halim (Biology 2021), Fahmi Arsyad (Agricultural & Biosystems Engineering 2021), and Hernita Fika Ardiyati (Food and Agricultural Product Technology 2022). Under the guidance of Dr. Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., the team presented research titled “Innovation of DNA Barcoding as Molecular Detection for the Enhancement of Superior Genetic Screening in Local Indonesian Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.).” Their project earned Second Place, equivalent to a Silver Award, in the Poster category of PKM-RE-4.

The poster served as an optimized medium for information transfer, allowing the Biocane Team to convey their research findings visually. Through a combination of images and concise text, the poster effectively communicated the ideas and research outcomes, engaging the audience in a deeper discussion. This interaction facilitated new insights into the advantages of DNA barcoding as an approach to overcome the limitations of conventional identification methods in selecting potential parental hybrids of sugarcane in Indonesia. In line with the theme of the 37th PIMNAS, which emphasizes innovation and productivity, the Biocane Team aims to provide solution-driven and innovative advancements for the agricultural sector. It is hoped that this achievement will serve as a stepping stone for even more brilliant research explorations in the future.

Faculty of Biology Student Team from Universitas Gadjah Mada Wins 3rd Place on National Scientific Writing Competition (LKTI) at the 18th Annual Conference of Economics Forum (ALCOFE) 2024 UNS

AchivementsHeadlineNews Release Wednesday, 2 October 2024

Yogyakarta, September 25, 2024 – A student team from the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada achieved remarkable success by winning 3rd place in the ALCOFE XVIII 2024 Scientific Writing Competition, organized by Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) in person at the Werkudara Hall of the UNS Library. This national-scale competition took place from June 27 to July 17, 2024, for registration and abstract submission, followed by the full paper submission phase from July 27 to August 17, 2024, in two waves. The finalists were announced on August 26, 2024, after the full paper submission, and the competition concluded with the Grand Final presentation on September 24, 2024, followed by a field trip, awarding session, and farewell on the next day, September 25, 2024.

The team, named “CIRCEL US” (Circular Economy of Edible for Us), consists of K. William Hendri Panjaitan (2021), K.H. Mahadhevy Ryrathna Vidhantyka (2022), and Adi Citra Prima Pranata (2022), under the guidance of supervisor Tyas Ikhsan Hikmawan, S.Si., M.S., Ph.D. They presented a research based paper titled “Potential of Edible Packaging Biofilm from Cocoa Peel Waste as a Substitute for Food Packaging Plastic.”

In their paper, the CIRCEL US team addressed the issues of 651 million tons of cocoa produced in 2022, which has become one of Indonesia’s important export commodities, contributing significantly to the country’s foreign exchange earnings besides oil and gas. Most cocoa fruit utilization focuses only on the seeds for chocolate production, leaving cocoa peel as waste. Cocoa peel waste (CPW) or LKK (in Indonesia: Limbah Kulit Kakao) is one of the plantation wastes that is rarely utilized. However, cocoa peel contains high levels of fat and complex carbohydrates (cellulose content) at 37%, making it suitable as a biomaterial for edible film, especially in the food and pharmaceutical industries. The nutrient content of CPW is quite good, with dry matter at 88%, crude protein at 11.71%, crude fiber at 20.79%, fat at 11.80%, and nitrogen-free extract (NFE) at 34.90%.

It is noted that plastic consumption in Indonesia can reach 22.5 kg per person per year (excluding the large total population), with most plastic waste coming from food and beverage product consumption in 2022. The application of edible biofilm or EPB using organic waste is one effort to promote a circular economy and environmental conservation by minimizing the addition of plastic packaging in nature. Edible Packaging Biofilm (EPB) can be utilized in various sectors, such as food wrapping. By processing cocoa peel waste into more valuable EPB, it is hoped to improve the community’s economy and create a green environment with environmentally friendly and easily degradable products, thereby reducing daily plastic packaging usage.

EPB from LKK can produce renewable food packaging that is free from plastic materials, significantly reducing plastic-dominated waste when applied sustainably. Support and supervision from environmental agencies and the government fully influence the production flow and consumption effects of EPB, as well as the changes in impact when returned to the environment. The large number of Indonesians replacing plastic packaging with EPB-based packaging will accelerate the sustainability cycle in reducing plastic waste. In this case, EPB can be modified over time so that it can be developed and officially recognized by the local government that natural packaging derived from organic waste meets safety standards for consuming food along with EPB packaging.

Based on reviewed research sources, it has been proven that EPB has the potential to replace plastic packaging and reduce individual dependency on contributing to plastic waste. The processing of EPB packaging is organically sourced and easily implemented through the utilization of cocoa shell waste (LKK). After the consumption of EPB products, it can be considered an important foundation as a reinforcing factor for the principles of a circular economy and in line with global efforts in developing new renewable energy to support the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) points 8, 12, and 15, namely obtaining decent work and economic growth, responsible consumption and production, and protecting terrestrial ecosystems.

This competition was participated by 84 teams from 51 public and private universities from all provinces across Indonesia. The achievement of the CIRCEL US team demonstrates our commitment to developing innovative and applicable research. This achievement also proves that the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada continues to strive to contribute to the development of sustainable science and technology, in line with UGM’s SDGs goals in building intersectoral synergy to face the challenges of the circular economy in the modern era. [Author: K William Hendri Panjaitan]

Faculty of Biology Student Team Wins 1st Place at the National Paper Competition in the New and Renewable Energy (NRE) Festival 2024

AchivementsHeadlineNews Release Thursday, 26 September 2024

Yogyakarta, September 12, 2024 – A student team from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has secured 1st Place in the Scientific Writing Competition at the New and Renewable Energy (NRE) Festival 2024, organized by the University of North Sumatra (USU). The grand final of this prestigious national competition was held on September 11, 2024, at the USU Student Center in Medan.

 

 

The team, named MY HEART, consists of K. William Hendri Panjaitan (2021), Firchamy Vuqi Aulia (2022), and Raja Steve Sudjatmiko Panggabean (2023), under the supervision of Dr. Eng. Thoriq Teja Samudra, M.Sc. Their winning paper, titled “Optimization of Carbon Absorption Based on Photosynthesis of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii Through the PEPC1 Gene Approach to Increase Lipid Biomass as Renewable Biodiesel Raw Material,” presents an innovative approach to tackling global carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions using genetically modified microalgae.

Their research highlights the alarming increase in CO₂ emissions, with global fossil fuel emissions rising by 1.1% in 2023 to 36.8 billion tons. The transportation sector, especially in Indonesia, is a significant contributor to these emissions. The team proposed a solution utilizing Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, a microalga capable of absorbing CO₂ through photosynthesis and producing lipids, which can be used as a renewable raw material for biodiesel. By genetically modifying the PEPC1 gene in C. reinhardtii, the team demonstrated how the microalgae could enhance carbon absorption and increase lipid production, offering a more sustainable option for biodiesel production.

This research is a timely contribution to global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and aligns with Indonesia’s goal of achieving Zero Emission by 2060. Furthermore, it supports the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in the areas of Affordable and Clean Energy (Goal 7) and Climate Action (Goal 13).

The competition attracted 226 teams from 79 universities and polytechnics across 27 provinces in Indonesia, making the MY HEART team’s victory a significant achievement. Their success underscores the Faculty of Biology’s commitment to fostering innovative, applicable research in the field of new renewable energy. This accomplishment also demonstrates Universitas Gadjah Mada’s dedication to advancing sustainable science and technology, in line with its SDG initiatives. [Author: K. William Hendri Panjaitan]

Highlighting Environmental Issues from Industrial Waste, UGM Biology Student Wins 3rd Place in National Essay Competition

Achivements Monday, 23 September 2024

Kotimah, an undergraduate student from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), class of 2022, has secured 3rd place in the Perta Event Essay Competition organized by IPB University. The Perta Event is open to students from universities across Indonesia and aims to foster critical thinking and analytical skills in addressing major societal issues as part of the national vision for Indonesia Emas 2045.


The Perta Event carried the theme “Smart Generation, Brilliant Future,” focusing on the role of Generation Z in generating innovative solutions to challenges in various sectors, including the environment, education, technology, socio-culture, and food security. The competition commenced on August 13, 2024, and included administration selection, essay submission, and finalist presentations. Kotimah’s essay, which focused on the pressing issue of industrial pollution, particularly from synthetic dye waste, was shortlisted as one of the top five entries. She was invited to present her ideas virtually on September 17, 2024. Her essay highlighted the growing environmental threat posed by industrial pollutants, specifically the harmful impact of synthetic dyes on ecosystems.

In her proposal, Kotimah introduced a novel solution by utilizing microbes derived from the fermentation of tea and sucrose solutions as a natural dye alternative. This microbial fermentation process offers an eco-friendly and sustainable substitute for synthetic dyes, with potential applications ranging from small-scale community initiatives to large-scale industrial production. Kotimah’s innovative approach aims to reduce the environmental footprint of industrial processes while promoting sustainable practices that align with long-term ecological conservation goals.

Kotimah expressed her hope that this microbial-based natural dye technology could be adopted widely in Indonesia, contributing to a more sustainable industrial system and supporting the creation of a greener future. Her achievement reflects UGM’s commitment to developing student talent and fostering innovative research solutions to address pressing environmental challenges.

This recognition not only underscores Kotimah’s academic excellence but also highlights the Faculty of Biology UGM’s dedication to empowering students to actively contribute to sustainable environmental solutions on both national and global scales.

UGM Students Explore Salacca zalacca (Gaertn.) Voss Seeds and Citrus maxima (Burm.) Merr. Peel Waste for Cervical Cancer Treatment

Achivements Monday, 9 September 2024

Cervical cancer ranked second most common cancer in Indonesia, with 36,633 reported cases in 2021, and the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Current cervical cancer treatment is chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery with side effects that can significantly reduce the patient’s quality of life. Most cases of cervical cancer are caused by HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection, which produces E6 and E7 oncoproteins. These proteins interfere with programmed cell death (apoptosis), accelerate the cell cycle, and lead to cell immortality, resulting in cancer.


Combination Salacca zalacca (Gaertn.) Voss Seeds and Citrus maxima (Burm.) Merr. Peel Waste has shown potential as an alternative cervical cancer treatment. This discovery comes from research conducted by UGM students in the Student Creativity Program for Exact Science Research (PKM-RE). The team, consisting of Aditya Latiful Azis (Biology 2022), Asy Syifa Paras Ceria (Biology 2022), Shabrina Farras Tsany (Medicine 2021), Rahmalia Diani Saffana (Medicine 2021), and Faqih Fikri Nuryanto (Pharmacy 2023), under the supervision of Woro Anindito Sri Tunjung, M.Sc., Ph.D., has explored the potential of Salacca zalacca (Gaertn.) Voss Seeds and Citrus maxima (Burm.) Merr. Peel Waste as an alternative therapy for cervical cancer.

Salacca zalacca (Gaertn.) Voss Seeds contain potent antioxidants including polyphenols, alkaloids, and terpenoids, while Citrus maxima (Burm.) Merr. Peel Waste is rich in flavonoids and lycopene, which are cytotoxic to cancer cells. The herbal remedy derived from these two ingredients is predicted to have milder side effects.

“This research aims to utilize Indonesia’s natural resources for cervical cancer therapy. Salacca zalacca (Gaertn.) Voss Seeds and Citrus maxima (Burm.) Merr. peel wastes were selected due to their secondary metabolite content, which has potential anticancer properties. Additionally, the increasing production and consumption of Salacca zalacca (Gaertn.) Voss and Citrus maxima (Burm.) Merr. lead to organic waste issues. We hope this research offers an eco-friendly and milder side effect alternative treatment,” said Aditya, the team leader.

The research conducted for four months involved various tests, including phytochemical screening, in silico studies, anti-inflammatory activity tests, cytotoxicity and antiproliferative assays using the MTT method, inhibition of HeLa cell migration, and apoptosis tests.
The result showed the combination of Salacca zalacca (Gaertn.) Voss Seeds and Citrus maxima (Burm.) Merr. Peel Waste could inhibit inflammation, halt cancer cell migration, and trigger cell death (apoptosis).

The results of this study are expected to pave the way for cervical cancer therapy that harnesses Indonesia’s natural wealth and supports zero-waste initiatives. [Written by: Aditya Latiful Azis]

Innovative ‘Eco Lindi’ Research Leads Rania Naura Anindhita to Graduate with Honors and Earn the Prestigious Outstanding Research Award

AchivementsAlumniHeadlineNews Release Thursday, 29 August 2024

Yogyakarta, August 28, 2024 – The Faculty of Biology proudly celebrates the remarkable achievement of Rania Naura Anindhita, B.Sc. (Hons.), a 2019 student of the International Undergraduate Program. Rania was awarded the Outstanding Research accolade by the Faculty of Biology for her innovative research on “Eco Lindi.” Her groundbreaking work on Eco Lindi also earned her the “Trash Control Heroes” award from the Regent of Sidoarjo, recognizing her efforts in tackling waste management issues and promoting sustainability. The innovative findings from her research on Eco Lindi were converted into her thesis, leading to her graduation with an international Bachelor of Science (Hons.) degree.

 

Rania’s success was greatly supported by the guidance and mentorship of Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc, Dean of the Faculty of Biology at UGM, and Prof. Dr. Endah Retnaningrum, M.Eng. The conversion of her research into a thesis was initiated by Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc, in recognition of the significant impact her research on Eco Lindi had over the past 2.5 years. Her research not only gained widespread media attention but also fostered collaborations with seven waste disposal sites across various regions in Indonesia. Through her study, Rania discovered that Eco Lindi significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions, including CO2 and methane, while also managing waste odor by decreasing H2S emissions.

The Faculty of Biology at UGM extends its heartfelt congratulations to Rania Naura Anindhita, B.Sc. (Hons.), on her outstanding achievements and hopes her success will inspire and motivate other students and researchers in their efforts to develop solutions for future environmental challenges. [Author: Aulia]

Biology Student Wins Gold Medal at the 2024 Nusantara Science Olympiad (OSN)

AchivementsNews ReleaseStudent Activities Wednesday, 14 August 2024

A student from the Faculty of Biology Universitas Gadjah Mada, Ronald Wihan Pradana (Biology 2021), has achieved a remarkable achievement by winning a Gold Medal at the Nusantara Science Olympiad (OSN). The 2024 OSN, organized by the PRESMANIA Foundation (Prestasi Maju Indonesia), is a prestigious national competition that saw participation from 1,000 students representing 100 universities across Indonesia.


Ronald’s success is a testament to the rigorous preparation and innovative approach he brought to the competition, which impressed the judges and brought great honor to his alma mater. His victory was attributed to the unwavering support of his mentors, faculty, and university. “This accomplishment proves that our students possess exceptional qualities and can compete at national and international levels” Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM stated.

Ronald began his preparation in January 2024, guided by Dwi Umi Siswanti, S.Si., M.Sc. He conducted in-depth research on “Biofertilizer as a Bioremediation Agent for Zinc (Zn) Residue in Chili Plant (Capsicum Annuum L.) Fields Post-Application of Inorganic Fungicides on a Field Scale.” In addition to his research, Ronald participated in various training sessions and seminars to enhance his skills.

“The journey to OSN was not easy. I faced difficulties in understanding some complex topics in biology, a fundamental and highly intricate science that encompasses multiple aspects, including humans, plants, animals, the environment, microbiology, and more. However, with the support of my friends and lecturers, I was able to overcome these challenges,” Ronald shared.

[Author: Ronald Wihan Pradana]

UGM Students Conduct Research on the Potential of Euglena sp. Microalgae as a Nutritional Source to Prevent Stunting

AchivementsNews ReleaseStudent Activities Friday, 2 August 2024

According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), 149 million children worldwide suffer from stunting. This condition can lead to high mortality rates, low Intelligence Quotient (IQ) and immune system function, and an increased risk of various metabolic syndromes. One effort to prevent stunting is by providing beneficial macro and micronutrients for child development. These nutrients can be obtained through superfoods, nutrient-dense foods that support health derived from bioactive compounds found in fruits and vegetables. However, the availability of superfoods faced many challenges. Therefore an alternative to superfoods is needed.

Euglena is a candidate for superfood because it is safe for human consumption and can thrive in various environmental conditions. It produces essential amino acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), and bioactive metabolites. Unfortunately, its metabolite production is lower than superfoods, necessitating a polyploidization to enhance metabolite production. Naturally, Euglena only produces about 44 micrograms/milligrams of polyunsaturated acid, 47% amino acids, and approximately 100 mg of paramylon.


Addressing this issue, five UGM students from different disciplines—Novia Noor Rachmawati (Biology 2020), Tiara Amelia Putri (Biology 2020), Haris Dwi Nugroho (Biology 2021), Sabrina Gita Pramesti (Chemistry 2021), and Tabina Amanda Aurelia Surya (Chemical Engineering 2022)—are exploring the potential of a stunting-preventing superfood from local Euglena sp. microalgae. They employ colchicine-induced polyploidy genetic breeding methods to alter the organism’s chromosome set. The students are part of UGM Student Creativity Program (PKM) in the Exact Sciences Research category, under the guidance of Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc.

Novia explained, “We use the polyploidization process because it can enhance the expression of functional genes and consistently pass down its mutated characteristics to subsequent generations. Therefore, we analyzed the performance, ploidy level, and metabolomic study of colchicine-mutated local Euglena sp. as an alternative source of essential amino acids and value-added bioproducts.”

Haris revealed that the Euglena sp. model was sourced from Dieng, Central Java, with concentration variations from 0% to 5% and an induction time of 24 hours. The goal is to obtain polyploid Euglena with improved morphology, DNA concentration, ploidy level performance, and amino acid and metabolite profiles.

Sabrina, who comes from a different scientific background than the other members, explained that an effective treatment to induce chromosomal ploidy mutations in Euglena sp. at a 1% concentration increases ploidy levels, carbohydrate production, paramylon, chlorophyll, carotenoids, and three essential amino acids (L-lysine, L-leucine, and L-histidine).

Novia, the team leader, added that further testing of the concentrations of each treatment showed an increase in amino acids, particularly in the essential amino acids L-Lysine, L-Leucine, and L-Histidine, which had the highest concentrations. These essential amino acids play a crucial role in preventing stunting as they function in bone development, immune system enhancement, and red blood cell formation. “We hope this research will be beneficial and contribute to the development of genetic modification in Euglena sp., adding to the body of knowledge on microalgae biotechnology, and positioning Euglena sp. as a high-value alternative protein bioproduct,” concluded Novia.

Kara Benguk Beans (Mucuna pruriens): A Potential Ingredients for Preventive Osteoarthritis Therapy

AchivementsNews ReleaseStudent Activities Friday, 2 August 2024

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a bone disease that affects various joints, including the knee joint, and is a leading cause of morbidity, physical activity limitations, and disability. OA caused by multiple factors, and current treatment for knee OA primarily relies on pharmacological drugs such as analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which can cause side effects and dependency. Surgery is the most effective treatment method, but not all patients are eligible for this procedure.


Addressing these issues, under the guidance of Drh. Retno Murwanti, M.P., Ph.D., the PKM-RE Peek a Boo team, led by Rima Arvisya Natania Putri (Biology 2022) along with Regina Nilamsari, Reny Ras Ninta Br Tarigan, Widha Nur Yuliharjanti, and Felicia Averine, developed a therapy to prevent OA using nanoemulsions derived from fermented Kara Benguk bean (M. pruriens) extract.

Rima explained that Kara Benguk beans are an underutilized local Indonesian commodity. These beans contain flavonoids, alkaloids, phenols, and terpenoids, which can help prevent the formation and progression of OA. Kara Benguk beans and tempeh collected from Kulon Progo Regency and processed into a control extract, a fermented Kara Benguk bean extract utilizing L. plantarum and L. casei, and a Kara Benguk tempeh extract. After testing for antioxidant activity and total flavonoid content, the Kara Benguk tempeh extract was selected as the raw material for the nanoemulsion.

Following organoleptic tests and effectiveness studies of the Kara Benguk nanoemulsion, it was found that concentrations of 100mg/mL, 200mg/mL, and 400mg/mL were significantly effective in preventing OA. The Team hopes that the results of this research will enhance the utility of Kara Benguk beans through the standardization and development of nanoemulsions for OA prevention and serve as the latest source of information on the use of Kara Benguk beans for OA therapy.

Presenting Biosensor-Based Pharmacogenomics Biology Student from UGM Wins Silver Medal at the National Student Essay Festival at the University of Mataram

AchivementsNews ReleaseStudent Activities Thursday, 1 August 2024

The prevalence of adverse drug reactions in Indonesia ranges from 0.9% to 99%, depending on the type of drug, duration, and therapeutic dose. Each individual can respond differently to the same medication due to varying genomic reactions. This concept is known as pharmacogenomics. However, the medical devices used in pharmacogenomics, such as sensors, often cannot reach certain areas within the body. Additionally, a significant challenge in genomic data classification is the vast number of individual genes, which can number in the tens of thousands. Meanwhile, medical devices are limited and often inadequate.


In response to these challenges, Feny, a biology student at UGM, proposed the development of an Integrated Machine Learning-Based Biosensor Pharmacogenomics System as an advanced treatment method for Indonesia under the guidance of Lecturer Tyas Ikhsan Hikmawan, M.Sc., Ph.D.. Her idea was presented at the National Student and School Essay Festival (Genesis) and won the Silver Medal. The competition held by the Fatepa English Community at the University of Mataram on July 6-7, 2024, featured 315 entries. The competition included several stages: submission of a full paper, creation of a presentation video, preparation of a PowerPoint presentation, and a live poster presentation before the judges.

Her innovation involves using biosensors to monitor molecular interactions in patient treatments real-time. These ingestible biosensors provide information about organs’ physiological parameters, allowing them to monitor the genetic profiles related to internal conditions and diseases. The approach employs a random tree classification model that predicts personalized drug responses, side effects, and the patient’s pharmacogenomic variants.

The combination of pharmacogenomic treatment systems with integrated machine-learning biosensors will enhance drug safety. Implementing this system in Indonesia will reduce adverse drug reactions and side effects. Healthcare professionals can quickly monitor patients’ drug intervention responses, enabling them to make the best treatment decisions promptly.
[Author: Feny Nur Nucifera]