Borneo Journal of Pharmacy

The Protective Effect of Amorphophallus oncophyllus against Indomethacin-Induced Duodenal Mucosal Injury in Rats via Inhibition of Inflammatory Cell Infiltration

Yuani Setiawati — 2025-11-30

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause significant gastrointestinal mucosal injury, particularly in the duodenum. This damage is often initiated by localized erosion of the duodenal mucosa, which triggers a subsequent inflammatory cascade. The porang tuber (Amorphophallus oncophyllus) is a promising candidate for mitigating this injury due to its rich composition of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, and glucomannan, all of which possess known anti-inflammatory properties. This study investigated the protective effect of an ethanolic A. oncophyllus extract on the duodenal mucosa in an indomethacin-induced rat model. Thirty Wistar white rats (Rattus norvegicus) were randomly assigned to five groups: a vehicle control, a model group receiving indomethacin, and three treatment groups that were pretreated with A. oncophyllus extract at doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg, respectively, for seven days before a single dose of indomethacin. Our findings demonstrated that the A. oncophyllus extract, particularly at a dose of 200 mg/kg, effectively reduced duodenal mucosal injury caused by indomethacin. This protective effect is likely attributable to the extract's phytochemical profile, which contains flavonoids, tannins, saponins, terpenoids, and alkaloids. In conclusion, this research confirms that A. oncophyllus extract has the potential to protect the duodenal mucosa from NSAID-induced damage.

Interventions on Costs and Survival Rates of Lung Cancer Patients

Fitriana Yuliastuti — 2025-11-30

Lung cancer is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of cells in lung tissue, particularly in the respiratory tract lining. The disease has a high and alarming mortality rate, requiring prompt and appropriate management. This study aims to examine the costs and one-year survival rates of lung cancer patients at Dharmais Cancer Hospital. Data analysis was conducted in four stages: retrospective observational study using secondary data from medical records, describing patient characteristics and factors affecting survival and treatment costs, analyzing survival curves by cancer stage and intervention, and testing differences in survival curves using the log-rank test. The results show that higher survival rates are often inversely proportional to shorter survival times, and vice versa. Stage 1 patients exhibited the most extended survival despite low survival rates for inpatients (48 months, 25%) and outpatients (53 months, 15%). Intervention types 4.00 (chemotherapy and radiotherapy) and 7.00 (chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery) effectively extended survival, although associated survival rates remained low. The highest inpatient treatment costs were observed in stage 2 patients, while the highest annual outpatient costs were linked to surgical interventions, highlighting the difference between per-episode and cumulative annual expenditures.

Integrative Analysis of the Pharmacological Activities of Lumbricus rubellus: Evidence from Preclinical and Clinical Research

Iyan Hardiana — 2025-11-30

Lumbricus rubellus, commonly known as the red earthworm, has long been used in traditional medicine and contains diverse bioactive compounds with therapeutic potential. However, comprehensive and systematic evaluation of its pharmacological mechanisms remains limited. This review systematically analyzes the pharmacological activities of L. rubellus based on in vivo and clinical trial evidence to provide an integrated scientific understanding of its therapeutic potential. A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed, ScienceDirect, Wiley Online Library, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar for studies published between 2013 and 2022. The review followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines, applying the PICOS framework for eligibility determination. Study quality was assessed using the ARRIVE checklist for in vivo studies and the JADAD scale for clinical trials. Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria, comprising nine in vivo and three clinical trials. Lumbricus rubellus demonstrated multiple pharmacological effects, including fibrinolytic, antibacterial, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, and anticancer activities. These effects are mainly attributed to proteins such as lumbrokinase and coelomic fluid metabolites that exhibit antithrombotic, anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective actions. This review highlights strong evidence supporting the diverse pharmacological activities of L. rubellus and its potential as a natural source for developing novel therapeutic agents. Further standardized clinical investigations are required to confirm its efficacy and safety.

Pogostemon cablin from North Konawe Targets MCF-7 Cells and Inflammatory Responses Through Protein Denaturation and Membrane Stabilization

Adryan Fristiohady — 2025-11-30

Pogostemon cablin (Patchouli), a medicinal plant traditionally used in Indonesia, is gaining scientific attention for its potential pharmacological activities. This study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects of P. cablin ethanolic leaf extract specifically sourced from North Konawe, Southeast Sulawesi. To evaluate its anti-inflammatory activity, two in vitro models were used: the protein denaturation inhibition assay, simulating inflammatory protein response, and the human red blood cell (HRBC) membrane stabilization assay, which mimics lysosomal membrane stability in inflamed tissues. The extract showed significant, dose-dependent inhibition of protein denaturation, with an IC₅₀ value of 62.98 µg/mL. In the HRBC assay, the extract demonstrated membrane stabilization activity with a maximum inhibition of 64.24% at the highest tested concentration (100 µg/mL). The cytotoxic potential was assessed using the MTT assay on MCF-7 hormone-responsive breast cancer cells. The extract exhibited potent anti-proliferative activity, with an IC₅₀ value of 91.56 ± 1.31 µg/mL, indicating its effectiveness in inhibiting breast cancer cell growth. These findings highlight P. cablin from North Konawe as a promising natural source of anti-inflammatory and anticancer agents, with the potential to contribute to the development of plant-based therapeutics. However, this study is limited to in vitro analyses; further investigations are needed to isolate active compounds and confirm efficacy through in vivo and mechanistic studies.

Kelor (Moringa oleifera) Bioactive Compounds as Potential Anti-Breast Cancer Agents: In Silico Studies

Saeful Amin — 2025-11-30

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women. Kelor (Moringa oleifera) leaves are a plant with medicinal properties for treatment. This study aimed to determine the activity and identify the metabolite compounds of M. oleifera leaves that are more effective and stable at the estrogen receptor (ER), potentially serving as an anticancer agent for breast cancer. The methods employed are computational studies, including molecular docking, PKCSM tests, and molecular dynamics simulations. The results of a computational molecular docking study of 23 M. oleifera leaf compounds identified the three best compounds from the docking results of the best ER genistein compounds on the 1QKM receptor, as well as genistein and luteolin compounds on the 1X7J receptor, all with low free energy values. From the pkCSM test of 23 compounds, three compounds were selected that showed good absorbance and distribution, and the toxicity prediction indicated that one compound did not exhibit hepatotoxicity. Molecular dynamics results for the Luteolin 1X7J compound, simulated for 100 ns, showed lower and more stable RMSD and RMSF values compared to those of compounds on the ER.

Antibacterial Activity and Bioautography Test of Ethanol Extract of Kitolod (Isotoma longiflora (L.) C. Presl.) Leaves against Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella typhi using Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction

Fajrin Ahidannisa Yuhdi — 2025-11-30

Isotoma longiflora (L.) C. Presl. (Kitolod) is recognized for its potential as a natural antibacterial agent, with prior studies on its leaf extracts demonstrating inhibitory effects against Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella typhi. This research aimed to investigate the antibacterial efficacy of I. longiflora leaf ethanol extracts, determine their phytochemical composition, and identify the active compounds responsible for the observed antibacterial activity. Extracts were prepared using ultrasonic-assisted extraction (34°C, 38 Hz, 40 minutes) with 70%, 85%, and 96% ethanol solvents. Antibacterial activity was assessed using the well diffusion method at concentrations of 40%, 60%, and 80%, against positive controls (ampicillin 10 µg and chloramphenicol 30 µg) and a negative control (100% DMSO). The highest activity against S. aureus was demonstrated by the 96% ethanol extract at 80% concentration, yielding an average inhibition zone of 13.3 ± 1.2 mm against S. typhi. The 85% ethanol extract at a concentration of 80% was most effective, with an inhibition zone of 9.5 ± 0.7 mm. Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, and phenolics in both the 85% and 96% ethanol extracts. However, the attempt to identify the specific active antibacterial compounds via the contact bioautography method yielded negative results, suggesting the need for further isolation and identification studies.

Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Activity of the Extract and Fractions of Kelakai (Stenochlaena palustris (Burm.F) Bedd) against Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Joko Priyanto Wibowo — 2025-11-30

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a major concern in healthcare due to its resistance to antibiotics and ability to form biofilms. This study investigated the antibacterial and antibiofilm activity of the extract and fractions of kelakai (Stenochlaena palustris) leaves against MRSA. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, tannins, and triterpenoids in S. palustris leaves. The ethanolic extract of S. palustris leaves exhibited dose-dependent antibacterial activity against MRSA at concentrations up to 500 ppm. Among the fractions, the n-hexane fraction exhibited antibacterial activity at 500 and 1000 ppm, while the methanolic fraction showed inhibition only at 1000 ppm. The ethyl acetate fraction did not show any inhibition. All fractions and extract demonstrated antibiofilm activity, with the n-hexane fraction exhibiting the strongest activity (91.33 ± 1.52%) at 125 ppm. The crude extract of S. palustris leaves showed the weakest antibiofilm activity (32.66 ± 8.14%). These findings suggest that S. palustris leaves contain compounds with antibacterial and antibiofilm properties against MRSA, with the n-hexane fraction being the most promising. Further studies are needed to isolate and characterize the active compounds responsible for these activities.

Regulatory Reform and Policy Mapping in Indonesia’s Traditional Medicine, Health Supplement, and Cosmetic Sectors

Mohamad Kashuri — 2025-11-30

This study systematically analyzed Indonesia's regulatory reforms for traditional medicines, health supplements, and cosmetics (TMHSC) issued between 2020 and 2024. The objective was to map the scope, distribution, and policy orientation of the 35 regulations enacted by the Indonesian Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) within the framework of the National Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMN 2020–2024). A qualitative policy analysis was employed, combining document analysis, thematic coding, and comparative benchmarking with frameworks from the ASEAN, European Union (EU), and Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). The findings show that 25 regulations were directed toward strengthening regulatory services, nine targeted compliance and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and one supported research and innovation through preclinical testing standards. This distribution reflects a policy trajectory that prioritizes service delivery and compliance assurance, while progressively integrating evidence-based approaches to research and innovation. A comparative analysis revealed a strong alignment with ASEAN harmonization initiatives and an incremental adoption of international benchmarks, such as ISO 22716 for cosmetics and the WHO GMP guidelines for herbal medicines. Overall, Indonesia's TMHSC regulatory transformation demonstrates a balanced and adaptive governance model that safeguards public health, promotes innovation, and enhances regional policy coherence. The results provide practical implications for policymakers, particularly BPOM and ASEAN member states, in developing regulatory frameworks that effectively balance consumer protection, innovation enablement, and market competitiveness within the TMHSC sectors.

Phenolic, Flavonoid, and Antioxidant Profiles of Sago (Metroxylon sagu Rottb.) Leaf Ethanol Extract

Muhammad Isrul — 2025-11-30

Oxidative stress drives many degenerative conditions, motivating the search for safe, plant-based antioxidants. Sago (Metroxylon sagu Rottb.) leaf is comparatively underexplored. This study evaluated its antioxidant activity and related it to phenolic and flavonoid contents. A 96% ethanolic leaf extract was assayed for radical-scavenging activity by DPPH using ascorbic acid as the positive control; IC₅₀ values were obtained from linear regression of % inhibition versus concentration (2.5–10 ppm). Composition was profiled by total phenolic content (TPC; Folin–Ciocalteu, expressed as mg gallic acid equivalents per g, mg GAE/g) and total flavonoid content (TFC; AlCl₃ colorimetry, expressed as mg quercetin equivalents per g, mg QE/g). The extract showed very strong DPPH activity (IC₅₀ = 11.873 ± 0.025 µg/mL), while ascorbic acid yielded 3.166 ± 0.025 µg/mL; both fall within the <50 µg/mL category. The extract contained TPC = 1.61% w/w (~16.1 mg GAE/g) and TFC = 3.05% w/w (reported on the quercetin-equivalent scale). These indices are consistent with the low IC₅₀ and support a phenolic-driven antioxidant profile. Metroxylon sagu leaf extract exhibits very strong radical-scavenging activity, supported by appreciable levels of phenolics and flavonoids, which identify M. sagu leaves as a promising natural antioxidant source. The findings provide a concise quantitative basis for follow-up work focused on targeted phenolic/flavonoid profiling, as well as broader antioxidant evaluations.

Granulation Methods Dependent Physical Characteristics of Chitosan Effervescent Granule Suspension from Mangrove Crab (Scylla serrata) Shell

Hilya Nur Imtihani — 2025-11-30

The mangrove crab (Scylla serrata), a prevalent resource in coastal mangrove ecosystems, is widely utilized for consumption. Its shell offers a valuable source of chitosan, a biopolymer readily synthesized and recognized for its potential health benefits. Chitosan's unique structure, characterized by the presence of amine groups, imparts a strong positive charge, enabling it to effectively bind with negatively charged molecules such as oils and fats. This property makes chitosan a promising natural compound for managing cholesterol levels. Developing a palatable and convenient dosage form, such as an effervescent granule suspension, is crucial to enhance its public acceptance as a health supplement. This study investigated how different granulation methods (wet and dry) influence the physical properties of effervescent granules containing chitosan, both before and after reconstitution. Four distinct formulations were prepared: F1 and F2 employed dry and wet granulation, respectively, with a citric acid : tartaric acid ratio of 10% : 20%; while F3 and F4 utilized the same granulation methods but with a higher acid ratio of 13% : 26%. Comprehensive evaluation revealed that all formulations generally met quality requirements, except F3's pH (4.38 ± 0.57). Statistical analysis using an independent sample t-test indicated that the granulation method significantly affected parameters such as flow time, percentage of fines, dispersion time, and pH. Ultimately, the dry granulation method yielded the most favorable characteristics, with Formula I (F1) exhibiting superior flow properties, optimal pH, and desired viscosity.