Date of Publication

2024

Document Type

Bachelor's Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry

Subject Categories

Biochemistry

College

College of Science

Department/Unit

Chemistry

Thesis Advisor

Rafael A. Espiritu

Defense Panel Member

Marissa G. Noel
Joan Candice V. Ondevilla

Abstract/Summary

Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent form of non-apoptotic cell death implicated in various diseases linked with oxidative stress. Plants are a growing source of bioactive compounds that can serve as therapeutic agents by mediating ferroptosis. Alstonia scholaris (L.) R. Br. locally known as “Dita” is an evergreen tropical tree native to the Philippines. It is known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective properties among others. Its bark is extensively used in traditional medicine systems. This study investigated Alstonia scholaris bark extracts (ASBE) as a potential ferroptosis inhibitor. DPPH assay demonstrated that ASBE possesses significant radical scavenging activity (IC50=0.2416 mg/mL). TPC and TFC assays show notable levels of phenolic compounds (26.83±3.51 mg GAE/g crude extract) and flavonoids (7.590±1.594 mg QE/g crude extract) in ASBE respectively. GC-MS analysis identified seventeen unique compounds in ASBE, with sugars and their derivatives being the most prevalent. Treatment of 0.1875 mg/mL ASBE rescued HT-29 cells against RSL3-induced ferroptosis comparable to Ferrostatin-1. Quinic acid obtained from the GC-MS analysis exhibited hydrogen bonding (Thr43, Phe214, and Gln218) and a carbon-hydrogen bond at Gly46 upon molecular docking simulations with Heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1). These results demonstrate the potential use of ASBE as a novel therapeutic strategy in combating ferroptosis-related diseases.

Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Electronic

Keywords

Apocynaceae; Medicinal plants--Philippines

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Embargo Period

9-7-2026

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Available for download on Monday, September 07, 2026

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