Satyajit Pandurang Kulkarni, Pritam Chugule, Pallavi Satyajit Kulkarni

This article has been retracted due to non-compliance with the journal’s Clinical Trial Registration Policy. The study reported a clinical trial that was not registered in a WHO-recognized public registry, as required by international standards (ICMJE, WHO, COPE). Although the author sought retrospective registration, no confirmation was provided within the required timeframe. The editors apologize for not identifying this issue before publication.

Sciences of Pharmacy

Harshal Shivaji Patil, Ashwini Sanjay Baviskar, Jaysing Mahavirsing Dinore, Ajeet Appasaheb Yelwande

Terpenoids are the largest and most chemically diverse class of natural products, essential for plant functions such as growth regulation, defense, and ecological interactions. Their extensive chemical variety and functional versatility have also sparked significant industrial interest across many sectors. This review highlights recent progress in terpenoid biosynthesis, especially focusing on the mevalonate (MVA) and methylerythritol phosphate (MEP) pathways, which are the main routes for isoprenoid precursor production. It explores the enzymatic processes that create complex terpenoid skeletons, including detailed cyclization and rearrangement steps carried out by terpene synthases and modifying enzymes. Advances in metabolic engineering and synthetic biology now allow the reconstruction and improvement of terpenoid pathways in microbial and plant systems, greatly increasing production yields. The use of bioinformatics and systems biology tools has further supported pathway discovery, enzyme analysis, and strain development. Beyond their traditional uses in drugs, nutraceuticals, flavors, and fragrances, terpenoids are also promising for biofuels and renewable materials, emphasizing their industrial value. This review addresses challenges such as pathway complexity, precursor supply, and regulatory control, and suggests strategic directions for future research. Overall, these insights reinforce the importance of terpenoids as key targets for sustainable biotech innovations.

Sciences of Phytochemistry

Garba Dauda, Bila Hassan Ali, Bashar Bawa, Maryam Abdullahi, Asmau Nasiru Hamza, Yahaya Mohammed Sani, Muhammad Garba Magaji, Musa Isma’il Abdullahi, Aliyu Muhammad Musa, Halimatu Sadiya Hassan

Malaria remains a major global health challenge due to its high morbidity and mortality, further complicated by growing antimalarial drug resistance. Natural products are being increasingly explored as potential sources of new therapies, with malarial proteases emerging as promising targets due to their essential roles in parasite development, invasion, egress, and hemoglobin degradation. This study evaluates the inhibitory potential of five compounds, quercetrin (DG1), dihydrostilbene (DG2), 4′-methoxy-isoliquiritigenin (DG3), stigmasterol (DG4), and quercetin (DG5), isolated from Globimetula oreophila leaves, using in silico docking against Plasmodium falciparum enzymes. Targets included falcipain-2 and falcipain-3 (cysteine proteases), SERA5 (hemoglobin-processing enzyme), PfDHFR-TS (bifunctional enzyme), and PfCDPK2 (kinase). Docking revealed strong binding affinities through hydrogen bonds, van der Waals forces, and hydrophobic interactions. DG4 showed a high affinity for PfDHFR (-10.3 kcal/mol), comparable to cycloguanil (-10.7 kcal/mol), while DG1 bound firmly to falcipain-2 (-7.9 kcal/mol), falcipain-3 (-7.5 kcal/mol), and PfCDPK2 (-9.0 kcal/mol). Binding to SERA5 ranged from -6.0 to -6.8 kcal/mol. These findings suggest that the tested compounds may act as inhibitors of vital P. falciparum enzymes, holding promise for the development of antimalarial drugs.

Sciences of Phytochemistry

Tawakaltu Omolara Tijani, Akeem Ayodele Olaiya, Dauda Garba, Ibrahim Atiku, Muhammed Ibrahim Sule

Terminalia brownii is a widely distributed African tree traditionally used to treat ailments such as cough, malaria, hepatitis, and microbial infections. The growing resistance of Plasmodium falciparum to Artemisinin combination therapy and other antimalarial drugs highlights the need for new therapies with improved potency and fewer side effects. This study analyzed the phytochemical constituents and antiplasmodial activity of T. brownii leaf extracts. The leaves were air-dried, powdered, and macerated in 70% methanol, followed by fractionation with n-hexane, chloroform, and ethyl acetate. Qualitative analysis of the methanol crude extract (MCE) revealed tannins, flavonoids, alkaloids, triterpenes, steroids, saponins, phenols, and cardiac glycosides, but not anthraquinones. Quantitative analysis showed phenols (195.45 mg/g), tannins (156.10 mg/g), and flavonoids (135.10 mg/g) as the most abundant. The ethyl acetate fraction contained phenols (103 mg/g) and tannins (69.56 mg/g) but lacked steroids and triterpenes. Antiplasmodial activity was evaluated in Plasmodium berghei-infected mice. The LD50 of the crude extract exceeded 5000 mg/kg, and significant dose-dependent suppression of parasitemia (p<0.05) was observed at 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg. These findings support the traditional use of T. brownii against malaria and encourage further studies on its bioactive fractions and compounds.

Sciences of Phytochemistry

Phenyo Shathani, Enoch Nifise Ogunmuyiwa, Babatunde Abiodun Obadele, Oluseyi Philip Oladijo

In the search for environmentally friendly corrosion inhibitors, medicinal plants rich in various phytochemicals present promising options due to their natural ability to adsorb onto metal surfaces, forming protective barriers against corrosive agents. This study examines the phytochemical profile of the ethanolic extract of Sclerocarya birrea using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The UV-Vis spectrum displayed distinct absorption peaks characteristic of the extract’s components. FTIR analysis confirmed the presence of functional groups associated with alkanes, alkenes, phenols, amines, aromatics, esters, ketones, and aldehydes. GC-MS detected 17 phytochemical compounds, including notable components such as γ-sitosterol (39.44%), l-(+)-ascorbic acid 2,6-dihexadecanoate (17.37%), pagicerine (14.66%), hexadecanoic acid derivatives (10.45%), octadecanoic acid (4.34%), and phytol (3.46%). These compounds are known for their medicinal properties and chemical structures that support effective corrosion inhibition. The phytochemicals primarily contribute to corrosion protection by adsorbing onto metal surfaces, creating protective films that impede both anodic and cathodic reactions, thus reducing metal dissolution and increasing resistance. The detailed phytochemical analysis provides a solid basis for further research into S. birrea as a sustainable and effective corrosion inhibitor for various metals in different corrosive environments. This work emphasizes the extract’s potential as an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional synthetic inhibitors.

Sciences of Phytochemistry

Grace Faskarina Sembiring, Sahat Saragi, Rafrini Amyulianthy

Optimal pharmaceutical services are a crucial factor in enhancing the overall quality of hospital care. Pharmacy installations often face challenges such as non-compliance with standard operating procedures, prolonged service waiting times, and inefficiencies in drug stock management. This study aims to analyze improvements in pharmaceutical service processes through the application of Lean Management, with the goal of enhancing effectiveness, efficiency, and patient satisfaction. This research employed a qualitative descriptive approach using observations, interviews, and secondary data analysis. The setting of the study was the Pharmacy Installation at RSIA Viola Bekasi. The implementation of Lean Management was initiated and conceptualized in collaboration with the researchers and hospital management. Prior to the intervention, the average waiting time for compounded prescriptions ranged from 30 to 45 minutes, while non-compounded prescriptions took approximately 15 to 20 minutes. After the Lean intervention, these waiting times decreased significantly to an average of 20.17 minutes for compounded prescriptions and 6.5 minutes for non-compounded prescriptions—indicating an efficiency improvement of approximately 33% to 68%, depending on the type of service. The application of Lean Management also led to notable reductions in waste, improved service flow, and more effective drug inventory management through the adoption of Just-in-Time (JIT) and First Expired, First Out (FEFO) systems. These changes enhanced both the operational performance and responsiveness of the pharmacy unit. In conclusion, the findings confirm that Lean Management is an effective strategy for improving pharmaceutical service quality. By systematically addressing inefficiencies and streamlining processes, Lean principles not only support patient-centered care but also contribute to broader hospital service optimization. This study also adds to the Lean Management literature by offering contextual evidence from a maternal and child healthcare facility in the Indonesian hospital setting

Sciences of Pharmacy

Minda Sari Lubis, Ziza Putri Aisyia Fauzi, Sri Harti Dewi, Zulmai Rani, Rafita Yuniarti

Staphylococcus aureus is a Gram-positive bacterium that frequently causes skin infections and can become resistant to various antibiotics. Pineapple (Ananas comosus) waste, particularly the hump, contains active compounds such as bromelain, saponins, and flavonoids with known antibacterial properties. This study aimed to determine the antibacterial potential of liquid soap formulated with extract and nanoextract of pineapple hump against S. aureus. The pineapple hump was extracted using maceration with 96% ethanol, followed by nanoparticle formulation using a high-speed homogenization method. Liquid soap was made with three formulas, one formula contains a concentration of 12.5% extract and two formulas contain 1.25% nanoextract of pineapple hump. Antibacterial activity was evaluated using the disc diffusion method, and the diameter of the inhibition zones was measured. Results showed that all tested concentrations produced antibacterial activity, with the 12.5% concentration (Formula 1) exhibiting the highest inhibition zone (23.2 mm), followed by 1.25% nanoextract nano liquid soap (18.41 mm) (Formula 3) and 1.25% nanoextract liquid soap (14.53 mm) (Formula 2). The positive control (Dettol Handwash) produced a larger inhibition zone (20.08 mm). Data analysis using one-way ANOVA revealed significant differences for each formula, with a p-value of less than 0.05. These findings indicate that nanoextract of pineapple hump formulated in liquid soap has potential as a natural antibacterial agent against S. aureus.

Sciences of Pharmacy

Yusransyah Yusransyah, Ihda Nurhikmah, Zahra Citra Maharani, Sofi Nurmay Stiani, Afifah Nur Shobah, Baha Udin

Hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are chronic conditions requiring long-term pharmacotherapy, placing significant financial pressure on patients and healthcare systems. Drug selection should prioritize both clinical efficacy and cost-efficiency, particularly in resource-limited settings. This study conducted a pharmacoeconomic evaluation of commonly used therapies at RSUD Berkah Pandeglang using a retrospective, non-experimental design. Data were collected from 2023 outpatient records and analyzed from the hospital’s perspective. Cost-effectiveness was assessed using the Average Cost-Effectiveness Ratio (ACER). For hypertension, amlodipine (n=20) had a lower ACER (Rp 283,913) than candesartan (n=15; Rp 883,000), indicating higher cost-effectiveness. In T2DM patients, metformin (n=25) was more cost-effective (ACER: Rp 317,746.75) than glimepiride (n=25; ACER: Rp 607,148.84). These findings support prioritizing amlodipine and metformin as first-line treatments in similar public healthcare settings to improve therapeutic outcomes while managing costs.

Sciences of Pharmacy

Fachrurrazi Al Ansori, Rauza Sukma Rita, Almurdi Almurdi

Lead (Pb), a heavy metal recognized as a hazardous environmental toxin, triggers oxidative stress by catalyzing oxidation reactions that produce free radicals, ultimately leading to cell death. Liver cell damage due to lead can decrease serum albumin levels, while kidney damage can increase serum uric acid levels. To counteract this oxidative stress, the intake of exogenous antioxidants is necessary. Java plum (Syzygium cumini) leaves are abundant in natural antioxidants, including flavonoids and phenolic compounds. The compounds possess antioxidant potential by scavenging free radicals. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of an extract of S. cumini on serum albumin and uric acid in rats induced with lead acetate. All treatments lasted 30 days. Testing for serum albumin and uric acid was performed using the DiaSys method. One-way ANOVA followed by the Bonferroni post hoc test revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) in serum albumin levels among the groups: the normal group (4.13 g/dL), the positive control (2.86 g/dL), and the treatment group (3.93 g/dL). Similarly, significant differences were observed in serum uric acid levels: the normal group (1.47 mg/dL), the positive control (3.14 mg/dL), and the treatment group (1.64 mg/dL). These results indicate that S. cumini extract helps mitigate the adverse effects of lead exposure on serum albumin and uric acid levels in rats. A p-value of less than 0.05 indicates that the observed differences are statistically significant and unlikely due to chance.

Sciences of Pharmacy

Reza Pratama, Daisy Jane Cabellon-Semense, Lela Sulastri, Mia Arifka, Yayan Rizikiyan

Mannan, a polysaccharide derived from various sources, has gained attention for its biocompatibility and potential in targeted drug delivery. Since its initial use in 1911 as an ointment base, mannan has been applied in cancer therapy, vaccine development, and as an antimicrobial agent. However, research is still largely dominated by in vitro and preclinical studies, with few clinical trials conducted to date. This study aims to provide an overview of mannan's advancements, its uses in drug delivery, the mechanisms involved, the research gaps, and the underexplored areas with significant potential. This study analyzed 321 peer-reviewed articles selected from Scopus (2000-2024), employing natural language (NLP) and bibliometric mapping to identify key materials, application areas, and research trends. Mannan’s flexible molecular structure allows for copolymerization with polymers such as chitosan, alginate, polyacrylate, and polycaprolactione, enabling improved targeting, mucoadhesion, and controlled drug release. Chitosan emerged as the most frequently used co-polymer, particularly in nanogel formulations for cancer and inflammatory diseases. Keyword impact analysis also revealed growing interest in mannans role in post-COVID-19 cytokine storm mitigation and vaccine enhancement, despite limited representation in clinical pipelines. Optimization of polymer ratios, crosslinker use and formulation strategies, remains essential to improving translational outcomes. Future research should also focus on clinical trials to demonstrate its effectiveness. In conclusion, this study underscores mannans role as promising biomaterial for next-generation drug delivery systems, while identifying gaps in clinical validation, mechanistic insight, methodological consistency. To advance toward commercial and clinical applications, future research should integrate machine learning models for predicting formulation parameters and drug release profiles. This findings offer a roadmap for the design, standardization, and eventual commercialization of mannan-based delivery platforms.

Sciences of Pharmacy