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UGM Students Offer Dayak Onion as an Effective Treatment for Tongue Cancer

AchivementsNews ReleaseStudent Activities Thursday, 18 July 2024

Universitas Gadjah Mada students Ribka Wijayanti and Dwina Aulia (Dentistry 2022), Anisah Qurrotu Aini (Biology 2022), and Naila Nurfadhilah (Pharmacy 2022) conducted research on the potential of Dayak onion as an antiproliferative and apoptosis-inducing agent for human tongue cancer cells – under the guidance of Prof. drg. Supriatno, M.Kes., MD.Sc., Ph.D..


Dayak onion (Eleutherine bulbosa (Mill.) Urb.) is a medicinal herb commonly used by the indigenous Dayak people and can be cultivated in various regions. Besides health benefits, this research also positively impacts the local economy. This research focuses on developing a natural therapy for tongue cancer by addressing the shortcomings of existing therapy. Plant-derived exosome-like nanoparticles, or PDENs, from Dayak onion, serve as a drug delivery method derived from Dayak onion exosomes.

“Cancer occurs due to the activity of proto-oncogenes, leading to excessive cell proliferation and the inhibition of tumor suppressor genes. We used PDENs because they have proven to inhibit proliferation and induce apoptosis in various types of cancer. Based on this, we wanted to explore its potential for tongue cancer treatment, ‘’ explained Ribka.

Ribka noted that using PDENs from Dayak onion induced apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells and reduced the number of proliferating cells.

“Dayak onions have a powerful IC50 equivalent to 38.97 ppm. This value is superior to other medicinal plants, such as soursop leaves and bajakah roots. The various therapeutic compounds in Dayak onion cannot be utilized as therapeutic agents using common extraction methods. However, with PDENs, all therapeutic compounds can be delivered to the target organ,” Anisah elaborated.

This research project was submitted as part of the Student Creativity Program in Exact Research (PKM-RE) with research funding support from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (Kemendikbudristek) to conduct in-depth research and analysis on the potential of PDENs extract from Dayak onion. It hoped that this interdisciplinary collaborative research can inspire further exploration of natural potentials to improve human quality of life. [Writer: AQA]

UGM Biology and Pharmacy Students Create Topical Patch Combining Fish Oil and Sugarcane Bagasse Biosilica for Diabetic Wound Healing

AchivementsNews ReleaseStudent Activities Thursday, 18 July 2024

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a global public health issue that can lead to macrovascular and microvascular complications. In Indonesia, the prevalence of DM among adults reaches 10.6%. Ineffective DM management can result in long-term metabolic, neurological, or vascular complications, making DM patients more susceptible to foot infections, which can increase the incidence of amputations. According to data from the Ministry of Health 2023, over one million DM patients in Indonesia have undergone foot amputations, with approximately 80% of these amputations beginning with foot ulcers. The prolonged infection of diabetic wounds is caused by high blood glucose levels, which increase bacterial proliferation. This issue exacerbated by immune system deficiencies, leading to restricted mobility and decreased daily productivity.


Based on this issue, Biology and Pharmacy UGM students Zahwa Khoirun Nisa (Biology 2022), Zatun Nithoghani Hafni (Biology 2021), Muhammad Nur Ikhsan (Biology 2021), Sekar Ayu Kusumawardani (Pharmacy 2022) and Alvian Chesyar Burhanudin (Pharmacy 2022) was developed a topical patch using two local Indonesian natural products: catfish oil and sugarcane bagasse biosilica, as an alternative treatment for diabetic wounds under guidance Dr. Adhyatmika, M.Biotech. This research, funded by the Ministry of Education and Culture, is part of the Student Creativity Program in Exact Research (PKM-RE).

The regular treatment for diabetic wounds is antibiotic therapy. However, excessive use of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance, making treatment less effective. “We chose the patch formulation in this study to prevent excessive use of antibiotics while ensuring drug delivery to the wound with a more measured and controlled dosage,” said Zahwa. Hafni added that the patch formulation is also suitable for patients who cannot tolerate oral medications and avoids the first-pass effect, maintaining the bioavailability of the drug.

Catfish oil contains essential omega-3 fatty acids known to aid in wound healing. An innovation in this study involves adding sugarcane bagasse biosilica to the patch formulation. This biosilica has shown to possess antibacterial activity that supports wound healing.

The bagasse used obtained from the sugarcane milling residues at PT. Madubaru. “We collected the accumulated sugarcane bagasse, then subjected it to furnace treatment at 600°C for 1 hour. The resulting bagasse ash was then dissolved in NaOH and acidified with HCl to form a gel. This gel was then oven-dried to produce silica powder,” explained Ikhsan. The resulting biosilica was combined with catfish oil to create three formulations with different active ingredient concentrations (catfish oil: biosilica), namely F1 = 25:75, F2 = 50:50 and F3 = 75:25. “We made nanoemulsions with these three formulations, measured their particle sizes, then added gel bases to form nanoemulgel, which processed into patch preparations,” Alvian elaborated.

The patches were then tested on diabetic mellitus model rats. “We inflicted wounds on diabetic model rats and applied different treatments, including the three patch formulations. Wound diameter observed from day 1 to day 7,” Sekar said. The data showed the significant effects of the patch treatments on diabetic wound healing. Based on these conclusions, further analysis identified Formulation 1 (25:75) as the best for aiding diabetic wound healing. This research is expected to provide a theoretical foundation for developing comprehensive therapies to accelerate diabetic wound healing. With this advancement, we hope to contribute to improving the quality of life for diabetes patients and help them achieve better health and well-being. [Author: Zahwa Khoirun Nisa]

Road to PKP2 2024: The PKM Corner Faculty of Biology UGM Conduct Training on Presentation Preparation

News ReleaseStudent Activities Sunday, 14 July 2024

On Tuesday, July 9, 2024, The PKM Corner Faculty of Biology conducted an online training on Presentation Preparation, featuring Astia Anelia, a 2021 Medical Student as a speaker. The training was attended by approximately 20 students from the Faculty of Biology Universitas Gadjah Mada and aimed to provide instruction, information, and share knowledge about creating PowerPoint presentations in preparation for the PKM Progress Assessment (PKP2). The event began with an opening by the MC, Layly Salsabila, followed by remarks from Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono, S.Si., M.Si., the faculty advisor of PKM Corner 2024, and Astia Anelia.


The event continued with a presentation and training on PowerPoint creation led by Astia Anelia. She covered topics such as selecting an appealing background, choosing appropriate formats and layouts, and presenting data clearly and effectively. The session concluded with a Q&A session and an explanation of assignments by PKM Corner. In the Q&A session, the speaker shared tips and tricks related to PKP2 preparation, drawing from their experience to help participants perform well in the assessment.

The SilkWorm MBKM Research Team from the Faculty of Biology UGM visits Omah JAMTRA, Wates, Kulon Progo, DIY.

HeadlineStudent Activities Friday, 12 July 2024

Yogyakarta, June 1, 2024- The Independent Learning Independent Campus (MBKM) 2024 Research Team from the Faculty of Biology, under the supervision of Sukirno, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., with the project titled “DNA Barcoding of the Wild SilkWorm Samia sp. Boisduval, in Yogyakarta,” made their first visit to their research partner, Jantra Mas Sejahtera, also known as Omah JAMTRA in Wates, Kulon Progo, DI Yogyakarta. This visit was attended by two members of the research team, Saifa Salwa Arrahma and Irenna Sheva Zahrani, along with their mentor, Siti Shofa Assyifa’ul Qulbi Barid, S.Si., M.Sc. The visit aimed to introduce the partner organization and to enhance the team knowledge regarding the Samia cultivation and species in Yogyakarta, identify superior Samia strains, and strengthen cooperation with JAMTRA.


The event began with an introduction by Mr. Yunianto Hargo Nugroho, S.Hut., the head of Omah JAMTRA. He explained the cultivation of Samia and the history of Omah JAMTRA. He shared his expertise and experience in Samia silkworm cultivation, emphasizing the importance of understanding the morphology of silkworms to avoid errors in morphological data collection. Pak Anto showcased the first instar larvae of Samia currently being cultivated and explained the metamorphosis process of the silkworms, as well as the environmental factors that need to be controlled for successful cultivation. He underlined the key factors in Samia silkworm cultivation, including jatropha leaves as feed, maintaining appropriate temperatures, and ensuring the cleanliness of the rearing cages.

The visit also included a discussion regarding silkworm cultivation at Omah JAMTRA and the research conducted by the team. The MBKM Research collaboration with JAMTRA is expected to contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) specifically: No Poverty, Quality Education, Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, and Partnerships for the Goals.

The Visiting Village 1 by Biology Student Executive Board (BEM)

News ReleaseStudent Activities Monday, 8 July 2024

On Monday, July 1, 2024, the Social Community Department of BEM Biology UGM conducted the Visiting Village 1 as part of the Social Community Department work program. The activity was attended by 13 committee members from the Social Community Department and took place in Geger Hamlet, including a visit to the hamlet head house and location survey. This event aimed to establish cooperation and build relationships with the community in Geger Hamlet.


The event started at 8:30 AM and was led by Alifa Tafrinjiyah, the field coordinator. The event included a Q&A session to identify the current issues in Geger Hamlet, as information for subsequent events, Visiting Village 2 and 3. Next, there was a location survey in preparation for the upcoming event. The activity closed with group documentation, followed by a cleanup.

This event is expected to foster good relationships by maintaining strong ties. Strong relationships could strengthen connections, provide mutual support, and help in various situations, also foster empathy, tolerance, and togetherness, ultimately creating a harmonious and peaceful environment. [Author: BEM]

KSATalk 2024: Let’s Greening Your Minimal Space

News ReleaseStudent Activities Monday, 8 July 2024

On Sunday, June 16, 2024, the Garden Architecture Study Group (KSAT) organized KSATalk, an online webinar with the theme Let’s Greening Your Minimal Space. The event aimed to educate participants on the steps and benefits of optimizing minimal space for home gardens. The event featured Anggia Sekar N as a speaker, a landscape architect, founder of Imah Flora and Tumpu Greenery. The event was attended by 61 participants from within and outside UGM.


KSATalk commenced with an opening and prayer led by Salsabila Nayla as MC, followed by speeches from Safina Suci Samara, chief organizer, and Anggi Nada Khoirul Ummah, Head of KSAT 2024. Proceeding to the main agenda, KSATalk guided by Endah Esthiningtyas consisted of a material presentation and Q&A session. The material covered the definition of minimal space, steps to create a garden from minimal space, and references to the garden concept. After the presentation, the event continued with a Q&A session where seven participants were allowed to ask questions. The event concluded with a documentation session and a closing prayer.

It is hoped that participants gain a deeper understanding of maximizing minimal spaces for home gardens and can effectively apply this knowledge to their own spaces. Additionally, it is expected that KSAT will continue to strengthen its roots to become a beneficial study group for the surrounding environment, academics, and the wider community.

MATALABIOGAMA Explore The Beauty of Cerme Cave

Student Activities Wednesday, 3 July 2024

Caving is an activity that includes exploration of the cave system that can build up teamwork and physical health. Caving requires constant communication to ensure team safety and to overcome obstacles. Caving involves climbing, crawling, walking, and even swimming, providing an effective full-body workout. Caving also provides insights into geology, biology, and ecology, offering hands-on learning experiences, elevating our love for nature, and raising awareness for environmental conservation. In addition, caving offers unusual adventure and exploration. Every cave is unique, providing ever-new adventures and discoveries. The thrill of exploration and curiosity can be exhilarating and satisfying.


On Saturday, June 1, 2024, coinciding with Pancasila Day, Matalabiogama conducted a caving activity at Cerme Cave, a historic site and tourist attraction located in Srunggo Hamlet, Selopanioro Village, Imogiri District, Bantul Regency. Cerme Cave sits 500 meters above sea level, with a cave length of approximately 1200 meters. Cerme Cave offers the beauty of stalactites and stalagmites and features waterfalls, underground rivers, and springs flowing along the cave.

The exploration was participated by Matalabiogama members, namely Baehaki, Rendy, Sulthon, Angela, Adrian, Sebayang, Dharma, Yara, Hanan, Ahmad, & Risma. Participants departed from the Faculty of Biology UGM at 08.30 WIB and safely arrived at Cerme Cave at 09.30 WIB. Participants were ready to enter the cave under the guidance of a local tour guide, Mr. Sumarah at 10.30 WIB. The course lasted for four hours. The participants encountered various cave biota, including cave shrimp (Gammarus pulex), cave crickets (family Rhaphidophoridae), cave spiders (Amblypygi), two species of bats, and eels (Genus Anguilla sp.). Residents consider encountering eels as a sign of good fortune for visitors due to their infrequent appearances. “We may only see these fish once a month,” said Mr. Sumarah. In addition to the cave biota, participants observed various geological beauties of Cerme Cave, including stalactites and stalagmites, several springs, and shimmering calcite crystal ornaments adorning the cave walls. The exploration ended at 14.30 WIB, and by 15.30 participants returned home.

This activity benefits Matalabiogama members, fostering stronger interpersonal relationships, physical health, biological understanding, healing, and enhancing members’ cave exploration skills. It hoped similar activities would continue, potentially collaborating with other organizations [Author: Matalabiogama].

BioSYNC: Sharing Alumni IISMA 2024

News ReleaseStudent Activities Monday, 24 June 2024

On Friday, June 21, 2024, the BioSYNC: Sharing Alumni IISMA 2024 event was successfully held by the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, in collaboration with the Biology Student Executive Board (BEM) UGM Cabinet Padma Birawa, and was attended by students from the Faculty of Biology, UGM. The objective of this event was to provide information about the Indonesian International Student Mobility Awards (IISMA) scholarship program and share experiences of IISMA Alumni.


The event began with an opening and prayer led by Muhammad Haidar Ali and Birrul Qisty Mutmainnah Nazara as the Masters of Ceremony (MC), followed by speeches from the Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, S.Si, M.Agr.Sc., Ph.D., and a documentation session. Next, an opening speech on the importance of study exchange delivered by Mutia Asri Khairunnisa. The event proceeded to the main agenda, a talk show session moderated by Firchamy Vuqi Aulia. In this session, three speakers shared their experiences and essential tips in preparing for the IISMA scholarship program: Mutia Asri Khairunisa, IISMA Awardee 2023 at Pennsylvania State University; Raden Rara Lilliane Gemma Amanda, IISMA Awardee 2023 at Sapienza University of Rome; and Felix Luman Shanahan, IISMA Awardee 2024 at the University of Groningen. The final session provided information about the IISMA 2025 by the Head of the Bachelor in Biology Study Program, Faculty of Biology, UGM, Sukirno, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D. It hoped this event will inspire students from the Faculty of Biology UGM to pursue overseas studies, including through the IISMA program. [Author: Hafizh Wahyu Sukmawan]

GENTALK 4: Discussion about Genes related to Obesity and Atopic Dermatitis by Formasigen

Student Activities Monday, 24 June 2024

On Friday, June 14, 2024 at 13.00-14.30 WIB, Gentalk 4 was held. The event was held at the Genetics and Breeding Laboratory, Faculty of Biology UGM. The activity targeted towards Formasigen students and public. This activity was attended by Mrs. Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D. as the Formasigen supervisor lecturer and Dr. Niken Satuti Nur Handayani, M.Sc. as lecturers from Genetics and Breeding Laboratory. Gentalk activities are a forum for active discussion and sharing between alumni or seniors related to the topic of the undergraduate thesis being worked on with Formasigen students and the public. The speaker in Gentalks 4 are Luisa Ramyahastri Paramatatya and Tazkia Mahsya Syavira, students of the Faculty of Biology UGM class of 2020 and under the guidance of Dr. Niken Satuti Nur Handayani, M.Sc. as their undergraduate thesis supervisor.

The event commenced with an introduction by the MC, Thoriq Abdul Halim, who serves as the Head of the Scientific Division of the GenomCity 2024 Cabinet. This was followed by remarks from Mrs. Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., and Dr. Niken Satuti Nur Handayani, M.Sc. In their remarks, Mrs. Ganies and Mrs. Niken expressed their hope that Gentalk can become a forum for sharing research results with active participation from various parties, beyond just Formasigen. The activity continued with a presentation by the first speaker, Luisa Ramyahastri Paramatatya, on her undergraduate thesis research topic entitled “Detection of rs9939609 and rs1421085 Variants of the Fat Mass and Obesity (FTO) Gene in Patients with Obesity.” Luisa explained that the FTO gene is associated with obesity and affects the process of energy metabolism. This study aims to determine the presence or absence of rs9939609 and rs1421085 variants of the FTO gene in obese patients at Panti Rapih Yogyakarta and calculate the prevalence of these two variants. It is hoped that this research will provide an understanding of the potential of these variants in predicting the risk of obesity and the genotypic relationships that arise in obese patients at Panti Rapih Yogyakarta. The activity continued with a presentation by the second speaker, Tazkia Mahsya Syavira, on her undergraduate thesis research topic entitled “Detection of Filaggrin Gene (FLG) Polymorphism Variants Associated with Atopic Dermatitis.” Tazkia explained that the FLG gene affects the formation of the skin’s natural moisturizing factor. This study aims to detect the presence of the FLG gene polymorphism variant 3321delA and the percentage of individuals with this variant among patients with atopic dermatitis at Panti Rapih Hospital Yogyakarta. The study is expected to provide information on FLG gene SNP variants in patients with atopic dermatitis at Panti Rapih Yogyakarta Hospital and its potential use as a biomarker for detecting atopic dermatitis. The activity concluded with a question and answer session with the audience, followed by a documentation session. [Author: Formasigen]

Mid-Year Evaluation of Formasigen (Genetics Research Student Forum)

Student Activities Monday, 24 June 2024

On Friday, June 14, 2024, from 15:00 to 16:00 WIB, a Mid-Year Evaluation of the GenomCity Formation Cabinet 2024 was held. The activity was conducted in a hybrid manner, both at the Genetics and Breeding Laboratory, Faculty of Biology UGM, and online using the Zoom Meeting platform. This activity was attended by Mrs. Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., the Formasigen supervisor, as well as all administrators and members of the Formasigen 2024 GenomCity Cabinet. The aim was to monitor the work programs implemented by the GenomCity Cabinet Formasigen management, identify obstacles and challenges faced during the half-year period, provide constructive input and recommendations for improving work programs, and enhance the quality of planned work programs.

The event commenced with an introduction by the MC, M. Sena Budiman, who serves as the Vice Chair of the GenomCity 2024 Cabinet. This was followed by remarks from Mrs. Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., who expressed hope that this activity would lead to even better future plans. The activity included presentations by the head of each division to convey the work programs carried out over the past six months, along with evaluations and suggestions for improvement. The presentations began with the Chairman, followed by the Secretary and Treasurer, and continued with the heads of the PSDM division, Scientific division, Household division, Public Relations and Networking division, and concluded with a presentation from the head of the Media and Information division. The activity concluded with a documentation session and a closing. [Author: Formasigen]