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UP Marine Scientists Discover Sponge-Derived Compound That Fights Breast CancerMarch 20, 2025
An all-female research team from the UP Marine Science Institute, led by Dr. Gisela Concepcion, has discovered that renieramycin M (RM), a compound from the Philippine blue sponge (Xestospongia sp.), can significantly shrink metastatic breast cancer tumors when combined with the chemotherapy drug doxorubicin. Their study, conducted on mice, showed that this RM-Dox combo reduced tumor size by nearly 47% while lowering chemotherapy-related toxicity. Given the high incidence of breast cancer in the Philippines, this breakthrough offers hope for more effective and less harmful treatments. Further studies are needed, but this marine-derived discovery marks a significant step forward in cancer research. Read the whole paper by accessing the link attached or by scanning the QR code on the photo. https://up.edu.ph/up-marine-scientists-propose-sponge-powered-combo-to-combat-breast-cancer/ |
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Paper on the anti-tumor and anti-metastatic activity of RM and Dox combination now published in ScienggJSeptember 22, 2024
MNPL and MPL RAs led by Zildjian Acyatan together with Dr. Lilibeth Salvador-Reyes and Dr. Gisela Concepcion published their study on the in vivo anti-tumor and anti-metastatic activity of renieramycin M (RM) and doxorubicin (Dox) combinatorial treatment in SciEnggJ. The treatment showed to be efficacious in slowing down the progression of the tumor in 4T1 breast cancer murine model based on tumor volume, toxicity, and histopathological analyses. These observations suggest the therapeutic potential of Dox and RM combination in breast cancer treatment. Congratulations to Zildj, Shalice, and LASR! Read the full paper here: https://scienggj.org/2024-special-issue-32/ |
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Jacque defends her MS thesisAugust 8, 2024
Jacque successfully defended her MS thesis entitled "Culture optimization for the production of antibiotic secondary metabolites in the shipworm symbiont Teredinibacter turnerae 1022X." Congratulations Jacque! |
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Ernest defends his MS thesisAugust 5, 2024
Ernest successfully defended his MS thesis entitled "Characterization of a New Lyso-Ornithine Lipid from Isolated from a Shipworm Symbiont Teredinibacter turnerae." Congratulations Ernest! |
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Congratulations to the MPL graduating class of 2024!July 27, 2024
Congratulations to MPL members Jeremiah and Reycel for graduating this 2024! Jeremiah earned his MS Marine Science (Biotechnology) degree, while Reycel earned her BS Chemistry degree, cum laude! The College of Science Recognition Program was held at UP Theatre, UP Diliman. Padayon! |
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Ernest wins Best Poster Award in 38th PCC and 2024 IC2July 24, 2024
Congratulations to Ernest Guiller Pineda for winning the Best Poster Presentation Award during the 38th Philippine Chemistry Congress and 2024 International Conference on Chemistry! His four-time award winning study describes the bioactivity and production of a new lyso-ornithine lipid from the shipworm symbiont Teredinibacter turnerae. The 38th PCC and 2024 IC2 was held on July 22-24, 2024 at the SMX Convention Center Davao. |
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MPL shares studies on marine microbe chemistry at the 38th PCC and 2024 IC2July 24, 2024
MPL members Ernest, Mia, Jacque and LASR participated in the 38th Philippine Chemistry Congress (PCC) and 2024 International Conference on Chemistry (IC2) held on July 22-24, 2024 at the SMX Convention Center Davao. Mia presented her findings on the chemical diversity of a marine sponge-associated Streptomyces sp. elicited with Pseudomonas aeruginosa cell-free extracts during the session on "Cheminnovation in Natural Products." Ernest and Jacque showed their studies on the shipworm symbiont Teredinibacter turnerae through poster presentations. While Dr. Lilibeth Salvador-Reyes contributed one of the lab's work on the chemistry of another sponge-associated Streptomyces sp. through a poster presentation. |
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LASR Discusses Anti-inflammatory Compounds from Marine Sponges at 46th NAST ASMJuly 11, 2024
Dr. Lilibeth A. Salvador-Reyes presented the study "Anti-inflammatory Compounds from Philippine Marine Organisms and their Mechanism of Action" during the 46th National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) Annual Scientific Meeting at the Manila Hotel. This work is part of the MS thesis of MPL alumna Shalice Susana (MS Marine Science-Marine Biotechnology 2020). Learn more about the study here: https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11040607 |
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Paper on the mechanism of biofilm inhibition of modified oxylipins now published in Frontiers in PharmacologyJuly 9, 2024
New paper on the mechanism of action of modified oxylipins (inspired by turneroic acid produced by shipworm-associated bacteria) against biofilm formation in Staphylococcus epidermidis is now published in Frontiers in Pharmacology. Congratulations to Jacque and LASR! Read the full paper here: https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2024.1379643 |
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IPOPHL awards patent on novel metal-binding compounds from cyanobacteriaJune 26, 2024
We are thrilled to share that our invention has been awarded a patent by the Intellectual Property Philippines! An invention grant was awarded for the purified novel metal-binding compounds from cyanobacteria. The team behind this discovery comprises MPL RA Jeremiah Batucan, Dr. Lilibeth Salvador-Reyes, and Dr. Ernelea P. Cao from the Institute of Biology. These compounds have potential for bioremediation and biosorption in industries like manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and mining. Registration Number: 1/2020/050321 Title: Novel Compounds with Metal-Binding Capability, Extracted, Isolated, and Purified from Cyanobacteria Inventors: Lilibeth A. Salvador-Reyes, Ernelea P. Cao, Jeremiah D. Batucan Stay tuned for the publication to learn more about our patent. |
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Dr. Lilibeth A. Salvador-Reyes gives a talk on medicinal and natural products chemistry to PUP BS Bio studentsJune 18, 2024
Dr. Lilibeth Salvador-Reyes was invited as one of the resource speakers during the 2-day seminar on Biology "The 8-Team: Biologist Innovating, Integrating, and Initiating Global Progress" organized by the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) Society of Biology Students. Dr. Salvador-Reyes' talk discussed the prospects and insights into marine natural products biodiscovery, particularly conopeptides. The seminar was held at the Claro M. Recto Hall PUP Main Building, Sta. Mesa, Manila. Watch the full video of Dr. Salvador-Reyes' lecture here: www.facebook.com/share/v/Hv1UUY3LMypHPyvt/ |
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MPL holds seminar and mini-symposium as part of MSI@50 Lecture Series and MPL 10th AnniversaryApril 22, 2024
As part of the MSI@50 Lecture Series, Dr. Lilibeth A. Salvador-Reyes conducted a seminar entitled "Something Old, Something New and Something Blue: Old Chemical Tricks of Marine Organisms For New Innovations in Today’s Blue Economy.” In her seminar, Dr. Salvador-Reyes showcased the latest research findings of the lab, highlighting significant outcomes from past research projects that encompass a decade's work of biotechnology and natural products research on shipworms, sponges, cone snails, and MMOs, while offering a glimpse on upcoming research endeavors. To mark the 10th anniversary of the lab, past and present MPL members took the spotlight as they presented their respective research studies in a mini-symposium held after the seminar. Noel discussed his research in designing a cyanobacteria-derived macrocyclase that can efficiently synthesize cyclic peptides from substrates with variable sequences. Jeremiah presented his study on natural products isolated from terrestrial and freshwater cyanobacteria. Jacque delved into her exploration on the mechanism by which modified oxylipins inhibit bacterial biofilm formation. Zab elaborated on the usage of the GNPS molecular networking platform and its application in dereplication and chemical profiling. Lastly, Zildj presented the DRG assay platform as a powerful screening tool in testing extracts and compounds with neuroactive properties. |
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MPL highlights marine biotech research to MS 1 undergraduate studentsApril 19, 2024
The Marine Pharmacognosy Lab showcased its marine biotechnology research to undergraduate students taking MS 1 classes at the Marine Science Institute. The exhibit featured stations for animal handling of shipworms and cone snails, microbiology setup done during fieldwork, chemical extraction and open column fractionation demonstration, and a station for high-throughput bioassay screening. The exhibit ran from April 18-22, 2024, at Room 365, UP MSI. |
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Paper on the synthesis and biological evaluation of cyanobacterial-inspired peptides now published in ScienggJMarch 18, 2024
New paper published on the synthesis and biological evaluation of cyanobacterial-inspired peptides. Congratulations to Jannelle and LASR! Read the full paper here: https://scienggj.org/2024-special-issue-6/ |
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Dr. Lilibeth A. Salvador-Reyes Showcases Breakthrough Research at Marine Natural Products ConferenceMarch 15, 2024
Ventura, California - Dr. Lilibeth A. Salvador-Reyes (row 3, L-6) took center stage during the recent Marine Natural Products Gordon Research Conference, with her presentation titled "Philippine Biodiversity as a Starting Point for Neuroactive Compound Discovery." The event, which ran from March 10-15, 2024, convened leading scientists from around the globe to explore the latest advancements in marine natural products research. Dr. Salvador-Reyes shared insights from the lab's research, shedding light on the potential of Philippine biodiversity to uncover novel neuroactive compounds. She is the sole female speaker from Southeast Asia among the marine natural products researchers in attendance from around the world. The Marine Natural Products Gordon Research Conference was graced by 200 attendees from 26 countries, and stands as a premier platform for fostering scientific exchange and collaboration across all career stages. With a carefully curated program featuring diverse speakers and discussion leaders representing institutions worldwide, the conference serves as a foundation for pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge in the field. Over the course of five days, participants engaged in dynamic discussions, poster sessions, and informal networking opportunities to discuss strategies for characterizing natural product structure and function, harnessing the biosynthetic potential of marine organisms, ensuring adequate production of marine natural products to rigorously explore the pharmacology, and facilitating their development and application for human health and well-being. |
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Prof. Baldomero Olivera gives lecture on Philippine Prehistory and Austronesian Maritime CivilizationMarch 4, 2024
Prof. Baldomero Olivera talked about "Philippine Prehistory and Austronesian Maritime Civilization: New scientific and cultural perspectives" at the MSI AVR. He presented data from different disciplines, integrating them to obtain new insights into Philippine prehistory, particularly on Philippine maritime culture. Prof. Olivera is a Distinguished Professor at the University of Utah, a Harvard Foundation Scientist of the Year awardee in 2007, and a 2022 Golden Goose Awardee (together with National Scientist Dr. Lourdes Cruz) for his work on conopeptides. |
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MPL attends Arribada 2024February 12, 2024
Members of the Marine Pharmacognosy Lab presented their work at the Arribada 2024 MSI Research Fest held at the UP MSI's MBRIS Building. Jeremiah detailed his study on bioactive metabolites from Philippine seaweeds through an engaging oral presentation. Jacque, Mia, and Zab highlighted their research on secondary metabolites from marine microorganisms through their poster presentations. Zab and Mia earned Best Poster Presentation awards for their studies on sponge-associated actinomycetes. |
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BS Chem Lab Alums Pass Chem BoardsDecember 20, 2023
Congratulations to Oli, Kylie, and Zenki for passing the Chemists Licensure Examinations! The licensure exams were held on December 13-14, 2023. |
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MPL facilitates hands-on mammalian cell culture trainingNovember 17, 2023
As part of the PhycoPRO Symposium, MPL conducted a hands-on mammalian cell culture training for six interested students from collaborating SUCs of the project. The students learned about cell culture revival and maintenance, and performed MTT-based cell viability assays for the crude seaweed extracts pursued in the project. On the last day of the symposium, the students presented what they learned over the course of the training. |
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MPL attends PhycoPRO Symposium 2023November 13, 2023
Lab members participated in the week-long PhycoPRO Symposium at UP MSI from November 13 to 17. The symposium, themed "Seaweed Biodiversity and Chemistry for Filipino Health," was attended by students from various SUCs. Talks on seaweed natural products and biodiversity were presented by UCSD Scripps collaborators Dr. William Gerwick, Dr. Lena Gerwick, Dr. Evgenia Glukhov, and Dr. Byeol Ryu, along with seaweed experts Dr. Michael Roleda (UPMSI) and Dr. Richard Dumilag (Sorsogon State University). Dr. Glukhov and Dr. Ryu conducted hands-on GNPS and SMART-NMR training to the participants. The symposium concluded with poster presentations, and Ernest (again) received the Best Presentation Award! |
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Shipworm team goes to Samar November 6, 2023
Jacque, Feb, together with undergraduate UPV students, Alexa and Alannis, collected shipworm samples in Samar, Leyte to isolate T. turnerae strains for future biodiscovery studies. |
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Paper on the DRG activity of compounds from sponge-associated fungus now published in ScienggJOctober 31, 2023
New paper published on the DRG activity of genistein and daidzen isolated from a sponge-associated fungus. Congratulations to Zildj and LASR! Read the full paper here: https://doi.org/10.54645/liji19166 |
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Paper on the secondary metabolites from sponge-associated Streptomyces cacaoi now published in ScienggJOctober 20, 2023
New paper published on the biosynthetic potential of the sponge-associated S. cacaoi R2A-843A using genomics and metabolomics. Congratulations to Zab, Bernard, Kevin, and LASR! Read the full paper here: https://doi.org/10.54645/MFFR36805 |
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Jeremiah defends his MS thesisSeptember 18, 2023
Jeremiah successfully defended his MS thesis entitled "Characterization of Compounds from the Shipworm Microbial Symbiont Teredinibacter turnerae 1022X.S.1b.7a from the Philippines." Congratulations Jemai! |
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MPL attends the 6th IPCB in SingaporeAugust 24, 2023
Jacque and Ernest presented their work during the 6th International Postgraduate Conference on Biotechnology on August 22-24 held at National University Singapore. Jacque presented her study on the mechanism of action of modified oxylipins on biofilm inhibition, while Ernest presented his study on a new DRG-active compound from T. turnerae. Ernest received the Best Poster Presentation Award again! Read the full news article here: www.abante.com.ph/2023/10/11/up-student-winner-ng-best-research-poster-sa-singapore/ |
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Congratulations to the MPL graduating class of 2023!July 29, 2023
Congratulations to MPL members Zab, Oli, Kylie, Zenki, and Kayla for graduating this 2023! Zab earned her MS Chemistry degree, while Oli, Kylie, Zenki, and Kayla earned their BS Chemistry degrees (all four undergrads graduated with Latin honors!). The College of Science Recognition Program was held at UP Theatre, UP Diliman. |
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LASR delivers keynote speech for the Institute of Chemistry graduating class of 2023July 29, 2023
Dr. Lilibeth A. Salvador-Reyes was invited as the keynote speaker during the UP Diliman Institute of Chemistry Recognition Program for the graduating class of 2023. The recognition program was held at the David M. Consunji Theatre, Institute of Civil Engineering, UP Diliman. Watch the full speech here: https://youtu.be/dzOfmQumxXg |
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MPL attends 37th PCCJuly 27, 2023
MPL members and PhycoPRO RAs Jemai and Zab presented their studies during the 37th Philippine Chemistry Congress held at the SMX Convention Center Bacolod. Through oral presentations, Jemai talked about his study on “Antiproliferative compounds of a brown seaweed from Camarines Sur, Philippines” during the session on Natural Products, while Zab talked about her study on “Bioactivity- and metabolomics-guided screening of Philippine seaweed species” during the session on Computational Chemistry/AI Chemistry. |
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LASR is 2023 PFCS Outstanding Achievement Awardee for Chemical ResearchJuly 26, 2023
Dr. Lilibeth A. Salvador-Reyes was recognized by the Philippine Federation of Chemistry Societies (PFCS) for her outstanding and exemplary contributions to society through chemistry by being awarded the 2023 PFCS-Shimadzu Achievement Award for Chemical Research. The awarding ceremony was held during the 37th Philippine Chemistry Congress at the SMX Convention Center Bacolod. Read the full news article here: https://www.pfcs.org.ph/pfcs-awards/lilibeth-a-salvador-reyes-2023-pfcs-shimadzu-achievement-awardee-for-chemical-research/ Congratulations LASR! |
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Zab defends her MS thesisMay 8, 2023
Zab successfully defended her MS thesis entitled "Comparative Biochemical Analysis of the Vegetative and Pellicle Cyst Forms of the HAB-Causative Dinoflagellate Pyrodinium bahamense." Zab is co-advised by Dr. Eizadora Yu of UPMSI. Congratulations Zab! |
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Prof. Hendrik Luesch holds a seminar on marine cyanobacteria natural productsMarch 3, 2023
Prof. Hendrik Luesch talked about "Marine Cyanobacteria as Starting Points for Drug Discovery and Development" at the MSI AVR. He presented his group's research on novel cyanobacteria-derived compounds, their biosynthesis, and mechanisms of action. Prof. Luesch holds the endowed Debbie and Sylvia DeSantis Chair in Natural Products Drug Discovery and Development and serves as Department Chair of the Medicinal Chemistry Department, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida. He is also the founding Director of UF’s Center for Natural Products, Drug Discovery and Development (CNPD3), and was LASR's PhD advisor in graduate school. |
Mia presents her MS proposal
February 20, 2023
Mia presented her MS thesis proposal entitled "Assessing the chemical diversity of Streptomyces sp. in monoculture and elicited cultures" at the Institute of Chemistry, UP Diliman. Mia is co-advised by Dr. Hiyas Junio of UPD-IC.
Congratulations Mia!
Mia presented her MS thesis proposal entitled "Assessing the chemical diversity of Streptomyces sp. in monoculture and elicited cultures" at the Institute of Chemistry, UP Diliman. Mia is co-advised by Dr. Hiyas Junio of UPD-IC.
Congratulations Mia!
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MPL attends Arribada 2023February 20, 2023
The Marine Pharmacognosy Lab presented their studies during the Arribada 2023 UPMSI Research Fest. Jacque presented her study on the mechanism of biofilm inhibition of modified oxylipins through a poster presentation. Zab gave a poster presentation on her MS thesis on the proteomic comparison of two life states of Pyrodinium bahamense. Gericho also detailed his study on antiproliferative compounds from a marine sponge through a poster presentation. Lastly, Ernest presented his work on biofilm-inhibiting compounds from Teredinibacter turnerae. Ernest won the Best Oral Presentation Award for his talk! |
