Research On Bioactive Molecules: Achievements And The Way Forward
- Author:
Wan-Loy Chu
;
Ammu Kutty Radhakrishnan
- Publication Type:Review
- Keywords:
Algae, anticancer, antioxidant, antiviral, bioactive compounds, recombinant molecules, tocotrienol
- From:International e-Journal of Science, Medicine and Education
2008;2(supp1):21-24
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Research on bioactive molecules is one of the
thrust areas of research at the International
Medical University (IMU). The bioactive molecules
that have attracted the interest of IMU researchers
include tocotrienol, astaxanthin, zingerone, apigenin,
carrageenan and phycocyanin. There are also projects
which focus on the screening of extracts from local
plants such as Elephantopus mollis, Morinda citrifolia,
Pereskia bleo, Euphorbia hirta, Zinger officinale,
Mangifera indica and Nephelium lappaceum and algae such
as Spirulina and Gracilaria. Characterisation of the toxin
from Bacillus thuringiensis is another area of active
research at IMU. The compounds and extracts from the
various organisms are screened for anticancer,
antioxidative, antiviral and immuno-modulating
activity. There are also studies on the production of
recombinant molecules, especially monoclonal
antibodies for the detection of house dust mites,
Salmonella typhi and Candida. The pool of faculty with
diverse expertise and the active collaboration with
public universities and institutions have enhanced
the progress of bioactive research at IMU. With the
current postgraduate and Bachelor of Medical Science
(B. MSc.) programme and the introduction of new
programmes in health sciences, there are good
opportunities for training of students in the research on
bioactive molecules. The future research direction
should focus on the mechanisms of action of the
bioactive molecules using new approaches such as
‘omic’ technologies and in silico modelling.
- Full text:W020150928398039662902.pdf
