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| A team of students from University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM) develops a nanoparticle-based diabetes medication made from easily accessible natural ingredients (Photo: Special). |
A team of students from University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM) has developed a nanoparticle-based diabetes medication made from easily accessible natural ingredients. This innovation earned them first place in the PKM RE-2 category at the 2024 National Scientific Week for Muhammadiyah and Aisyiyah Universities (Pimtanas). The team consists of Wildan Hidayatullah as the team leader, Aisyiah Apriliano and Fikri Maya Silvia from the Pharmacy program, and Serli Viviani Patrisia from the Aquaculture program.
Wildan explained that, according to data from the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) in 2021, the number of diabetes patients worldwide was estimated to reach 536.6 million people (10.5%). This figure is projected to increase to 783.2 million people (12.2%) by 2045. This alarming trend served as the driving force behind their research into developing this nanoparticle-based diabetes medication. In its development, they utilized natural ingredients from Arthrospira platensis algae, which has potential as an anti-diabetic agent, combined with selenium minerals to create the nanoparticles for the drug.
In vivo trials using the medication on mice (Mus musculus) over a 15-day period demonstrated that the nanoparticle-based diabetes drug could lower blood sugar levels, increase body weight, and improve wound healing in the test subjects. Meanwhile, in silico trials confirmed that the drug effectively works as an anti-diabetic agent by inhibiting one of the proteins responsible for diabetes. The drug’s formulation can be further innovated in the future, potentially being developed into powder, tablet, or syrup forms.
Wildan stated that the advantage of this diabetes medication lies in its easily accessible natural ingredients and its nanoparticle formulation, which allows it to deliver effects efficiently in humans. However, its limitation is the lack of further testing on humans, meaning the long-term effects of using this medication are still unknown.
Moving forward, they plan to further develop this nanoparticle-based medication and conduct thorough testing. Additionally, they aim to create treatments for other diseases, such as cancer and more. “One of the challenges we faced during the development of this medication was working with the nanoparticle formulation, which requires adequate equipment for production. Regarding this victory, we feel happy and proud because all the hard work we put in over several months has paid off,” Wildan said.
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To conclude, Wildan encouraged other young people not to be afraid to try new things. By trying, they can discover their potential and measure how far their efforts have taken them. “Young people should never fear trying—bring innovation and solutions to our nation,” he emphasized. (zaf/wil/ind)
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