Malaysian Journal of Biochemistry
& Molecular Biology
(E-ISSN: 2600-9005)
The Official Publication of the Malaysian Society for Biochemistry & Molecular Biology (MSBMB)
Indexed by SCOPUS and Malaysian Citation Index (MYCITE)
NEW ANNOUNCEMENT
The MJBMB will be revising its publication fee for accepted papers from MYR250 to MYR300 effective 1st January 2026.
New submissions received from 1st January 2026 onwards will pay the new rate.
Best viewed on desktop
Visit the Website of the MSBMBÂ
About the MJBMB
Malaysian Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (MJBMB) was founded by the Malaysian Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (MSBMB) in the year 1997. It was published two times a year prior to 2010. From 2016 onwards, the journal will be published ONLINE 3 times per year, in April, August and December. The journal publishes research papers in all areas of biochemistry, biophysics and molecular biology, which include DNA and RNA biology, gene expression, glycobiology, enzymology, protein structure and function, lipid chemistry, membranes, immunology, plant biochemistry and physiology, microbiology, immunology, natural product chemistry, biomedical science, research methods and bioinformatics.
​
Indexing
​SCOPUS & ​​MyCITE (Malaysian Citation Index)​​​​​​​​​
Current Issue
April
Malay. J. Biochem. Mol. Biol. (2026) 29 (1)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page 1- 8
​
Si Qi Ng, Zhen Sheng Bong, Siow-Ping Tan, Ghim Hock Ong, Khye Er Loh *
​
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY ACTIVITY OF GREEN SYNTHESISED SILVER NANOPARTICLES FROM Chrysanthemum morifolium EXTRACT AGAINST MSU CRYSTAL-INDUCED INFLAMMATION IN MACROPHAGE
​
Abstract
​
Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the elevated uric acid level, which is deposited as monosodium urate (MSU) crystals in the joint. Macrophages recognise the MSU crystal as a foreign antigen and trigger signalling pathways that produce pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β) and inflammatory mediators (NO). Many advocates for the adoption of biological green synthesis as the primary method for nanoparticle production due to its environmental benefits, lower energy consumption, and higher yield. The properties of silver nanoparticles have been widely investigated and known to exhibit antibacterial, antimicrobial, anticancer effects and more. These effects are attributed to their high surface area-to-volume ratio at the nanoscale and multicomponent activities from its surrounding phytocompound derived from medicinal plants. Chrysanthemum morifolium (CM) is a flower that has been a big part of Chinese medicine for millennia. In this study, silver nanoparticles were synthesised using C. morifolium extract via green synthesis method. The nanoparticles produced were characterised using FTIR, UV-Vis spectroscopy and dynamic light scattering analysis. Its effect on cell viability was examined using the MTT assay, and its anti-inflammatory effects were compared to those of chemically synthesised silver nanoparticles on MSU crystal-stimulated macrophages via the Griess assay and IL-1β assay. The results revealed that the CM-AgNP synthesis was non-cytotoxic at all concentrations tested (5-25 μg/mL) while chemically synthesised AgNP showed cytotoxicity at 20 and 25 μg/mL. CM-AgNP inhibited the levels of nitric oxide and IL-1β significantly. The CM-AgNP showed promising potential as an anti- inflammatory agent and provides a safer alternative to chemically synthesised AgNPs, further study to validate its anti-inflammatory potential is suggested.
​
​​​
Page 9-20
​​
Ain Farisah Mohd Dahari, Umairah Balqis Shahril, Nur Aliyah Mohd Azrin, Muhamad Noranzrian Ridzuan, Mohd Shukuri Mohamad Ali, Noor Dina Muhd Noor
​
PROTEOLYTIC ACTIVITY AND CONCOMITANT ANTIOXIDANTS KERATINASE WITH FEATHER DEGRADING ABILITY FROM ENTEROCOCCUS FAECALIS STRAIN SR5
​
Abstract
​
With the aim of screening proteolytic strains bacteria capable of degrading chicken feathers, we isolated a new proteolytic strain from a chicken slaughter- house. After proteolytic and keratinolytic activity screening, the sample was further identified by 16s rRNA sequencing before being analyzed by a bioinformatical approach. Sample SR5, identified as Enterococcus faecalis, showed the most prominent proteolytic and keratinolytic activity and thus was called as Enterococcus faecalis strain SR5. The protease enzyme showed optimal activity in Tris-HCl buffer (pH 7) and stability over a pH range of 7-8 for 60 minutes at 37 ÌŠC. The catalytic activity was enhanced in the presence of Ca2+, Zn2+, and Mg2+. The enzyme was completely inhibited by phenylmethanesulfonyl fluoride (PMSF) and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), suggesting it belongs to the serine protease and metallo-protease families with a molecular weight between 25-35 kDa. SEM observation revealed the effect of feather degradation following a 4-day incubation period with the protease extract. The keratin hydrolysate exhibited antioxidant activity, reducing the Fe3+ concentration from 0.55 g/L to 1.75 g/L. In conclusion, due to proteolytic and keratinolytic activity observed from the SR5 enzyme, it has potential applications in feather meal preparation and waste feather disposal, which may provide a more cost- effective and efficient pollution control for the poultry industry.
​
​​​
Page 21-32
​​
Felix Chigozie Nwadire, Julian Ibeji Iheanyichukwu, Onuchi Marygem Mac-kalunta, Chinedum Ifeanyi Nwankwo, Comfort Michael Ngwu, Stella Mbanyeaku Ufearoh, Brendan Chidozie Asogwa, Henry Chibueze Osiagor, Blessing Onyinyechi Onah and Ifeanyi Edozie Otuokere
​
GC-MS, ANTIOXIDANT AND IN SILICO STUDIES OF THE POLYHERBAL FORMULATION CONTAINING Carica papaya, Cymbopogon citratus, AND Moringa oleifera
​
Abstract
​
Chronic oxidative stress is associated with ailments including cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, and neurological issues. Growing evidence suggests that polyherbal formulations significantly reduce oxidative stress. This study examines the chemical properties, antioxidant activity, molecular docking, ADMET, and molecular dynamics of the polyherbal formulation generated from Carica papaya, Cymbopogon citratus, and Moringa oleifera (CCM-PHF). The GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of twenty-three compounds in the CCM-PHF. The predominant components are sinapic acid (SNP) (30.34%), limonene (LIM) (17.78%), and linalool (LIN) (14.62%). The DPPH results showed that CCM-PHF does possess free-radical scavenging effects, but the effect is significantly lower (p<0.05) than that of ASC. The FRAP results showed that CCM-PHF does possess reducing capacity at 100, 200 and 400 μg/mL, but the effect is significantly lower (p<0.05) than that of ASC. SNP exhibited the highest binding affinities, indicating strong interactions with the target protein 2X08. The MD simulation revealed that the hit compound had a stable and flexible conformation with the 2X08 protein. Moreover, the CCM-PHF compounds demonstrated superior ADMET predictions. The polyherbal formulation exhibited substantial antioxidant activity, supported by molecular docking and dynamics studies that suggest positive ADMET properties, thereby establishing it as a promising candidate for preclinical and clinical investigation.
​
​​​
Page 33-39
​
Sharrone Azzel Jussil, Mohd Zaki Mohd Zaili, Shu Meng Goh, Muhammad Fazril Mohamad Razif, Jualang Azlan Gansau and Lucky Poh Wah Goh
​
IDENTIFICATION OF RESISTANCE GENES IN CARBAPENEM-RESISTANT ACINETOBACTER BAUMANNII (CRAB) ISOLATES FROM HOSPITAL IN SABAH
​
Abstract
​
Carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) has been recognized as an urgent public healthcare infectious disease and its incidence rates are concerning. Hence, this study is aimed to identify the prevalence of selected resistance genes and analyze the association between the presence of these genes and the antibiotic resistance levels. A total of 204 A. baumannii. isolates were collected from Queen Elizabeth Hospital Kota Kinabalu and 127 isolates labelled as ‘β-lactams, carbapenemase’ were chosen for further analysis. DNA extractions were performed using a modified phenol-chloroform method and PCR was performed to detect the presence of blaOXA-23, blaOXA-58 and blaTEM genes. Positive PCR results were sent for DNA sequencing for confirmation. The prevalence of CRAB isolates was 62.3% (n = 127). The presence of blaOXA-23, blaOXA-58 and blaTEM were 100% (n = 127), 3.94% (n = 5) and 51.97% (n = 66) respectively. All CRAB isolates pose high antibiotic resistance (≥80%) for ampicillin/sulbactam, piperacillin/tazobactam and cefepime. Furthermore, cefotaxime, ceftazidime, ceftriaxone, imipenem and meropenem showed 100% resistance. The Spearman’s correlation test was statistically significant (p <0.05) between blaOXA-58 and ampicillin/sulbactam, demonstrating weak negative relationship due to absence of strong promoters and blaTEM shows weak positive relationship between ampicillin/sulbactam, amikacin, gentamicin, ciprofloxacin and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole which highlights the potential risks of blaTEM’s adaptive resistance. Thus, blaOXA-23 is the most prevalent and significant carbapenem gene. This study supports the development of targeted diagnostics and monitoring of the spread of antibiotic resistance genes, thereby helps to reduce CRAB transmission locally.
​
​​​
Page 40-49
​
Kai Xin Ooi, Christine Ricky, Nurul Ashikin MS, Audrey Fanty, Lai Yen Fong, Susan Ling Ling Hoe and Yang Mooi Lim
​
IN VIVO BIOLUMINESCENCE IMAGING FOR LONGITUDINAL TUMORIGENICITY ASSESSMENT: CORRELATIONS WITH TUMOR VOLUME AND POST-D-LUCIFERIN INJECTION IMAGING TIMEPOINTS
​
Abstract
​
Bioluminescence imaging (BLI) demonstrated superior sensitivity and specificity over the volumetric measurement for longitudinal tracking of tumor development. Luciferase activity is measured by determining the peak bioluminescence intensity, which serves as a quantitative indicator of tumor burden. The peak signal could only be acquired via a sequential imaging strategy. However, most researchers opted for a single timepoint imaging strategy to improve experimental throughput. The temporal dynamics of bioluminescence intensities driven by luciferin kinetics, which change over time, thus pose a challenge for accurate tumor growth estimation. The current study aims to evaluate the correlation between volumetric measurement and BLI of xenografted tumors for longitudinal assessment. Also, to address the variations in BLI intensity that arise from luciferin kinetics over days. Three NSG mice were inoculated subcutaneously with HT-29-GFP-Luc2 cells and assessed for tumorigenicity via volumetric measurements and sequential BLI. Both tumor volume and BLI signals demonstrated strong positive correlations with R2 > 0.90 when the mean volume remained below 1200 mm3. The study also demonstrated that temporal dynamics in bioluminescence kinetics can lead to varying degrees of under- or overestimation of tumor growth. The best imaging timepoint representing the peak time is eight minutes post-D-luciferin injection. This is due to its low luciferin kinetic variability and high exchangeability with peak time, which gives it the closest resemblance to the peak signal growth ratio. It is therefore suggested to image the tumors at eight minutes post-D-luciferin injection when practicing single-timepoint BLI in experiments using HT-29-GFP-Luc2 xenograft models.
​
​​​
Page 50-56
​
Ida Bagus Wayan Gunam, I Made Febriana, Anak Agung Made Dewi Anggreni, I Gede Arya Sujana, I M. Mahaputra Wijaya and A. A. S. A. Sukmaningsih
​
PHYSIOLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF Klebsiella variicola R5I4 FOR AMYLASE PRODUCTION UNDER VARIABLE pH AND CULTURE MEDIA
​
Abstract
​
A novel bacteria Klebsiella variicola R5I4 which capable of converting starch into sugar was previously found suggesting it is an amylase producing bacteria; however its characteristics is not yet clearly elucidated. One of which is optimal media requirement. Optimal media is required for the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, yeasts, and molds. Some types of microbes can live well on very simple media, which only contain inorganic salts plus organic carbon sources such as sugar. However, microbes that require complex medium that not only contains carbon and nitrogen sources but also needs the addition of other complex ingredients also exist. This research was aimed to characterize the physiology of Klebsiella variicola R5I4 for amylase production at various pH levels and culture media. The types of media which are tested in this work are: nutrient broth, starch broth, and yeast extract-peptone-glucose, meanwhile the pH value tested are pH 6, 7, and 8. The optimal media found in this study is starch broth media at pH 6 which was able to produce an OD660 value of 1.925 ± 0.11 and corresponding to total microbial count of 8.76 x 106 CFU/mL, and produced amylase enzyme activity of 2.720 ± 0.036 IU/mL with total reduction sugar produced of 4.896 ± 0.065 mg/mL and final total soluble solids of 6.5 ± 0.14 °Brix.
​
​​​
Page 57-79
​
Mriganka Mandal, Jishu Mandal, Sourav Pakrashy and Amrita Basak
​
SPHINGOLIPID METABOLISM AND CERAMIDE AS A KEY INTER PLAYER FOR MALIGNANT CELL DEATH: INSIGHT MOLECULAR STUDY AND THERAPEUTIC EFFICACY
​
Abstract
​
Lipids, particularly sphingolipids, are key biomolecules responsible for numerous cellular processes in mammalian cells. Sphingolipids influence a wide range of functions, including cell proliferation, differentiation, adhesion, motility, and death. Their metabolism activates various signaling pathways, many of which are directly associated with the anti-tumorigenic apoptotic pathway. Ceramide, the central metabolite of sphingolipids, has been extensively studied in recent decades. Evidence shows that chemotherapeutic drugs and radiation therapy increase endogenous ceramide levels, thereby inducing malignant cell death through multiple death-signaling pathways. Other sphingolipid derivatives, such as gangliosides and sphingosine-1-phosphate, also play pivotal roles in diverse cellular functions. Malignant cell death initiated by sphingolipids has been demonstrated in various cell lines, and sphingolipid metabolism is increasingly recognized as a promising target for therapeutic intervention. This review highlights the molecular pathways of ceramide-induced cell death, emphasizing both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic mechanisms. Since ceramide is composed of sphingosine and a fatty acid, its metabolism and related signaling cascades provide important insights into anti-tumour activity. A deeper understanding of the molecular basis of ceramide action may enhance knowledge of disease pathogenesis and support the development of novel therapeutic strategies. Here, we also summarize the diverse functional roles of sphingolipid metabolism in malignant cell death and the associated signaling pathways.
​
​​​
Page 80-92
​
Wan Huey Chan, Wei Sheng Chong, Yoong Soon Yong, Jen Kit Tan, Eric Chong Tzyy Jiann, Rossita Shapawi, Nurzafirah Mazlan, Fikri Akmal Khodzori, and Muhammad Dawood Shah
​
IN VITRO ANTIOXIDANT POTENTIAL OF MARINE SPONGE CLATHRIA REINWARDTI
​
Abstract
​
Oxidative stress, caused by an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant defenses, poses a significant risk to human and animal health. Marine sponges are recognized as valuable sources of antioxidant compounds, however the antioxidant potential of Clathria reinwardti remains poorly explored. This study evaluated the in vitro antioxidant potential of the methanol extract of C. reinwardti from North Borneo waters. Antioxidant potential was assessed using the DPPH assay alongside total phenolic and flavonoid content determination, qualitative screening, and FTIR analysis. Compound profiling was performed using GC-MS and LC-Q-Orbitrap-MS. The extract exhibited DPPH- radicals scavenging activity with IC50 values of 4.283±0.204 mg/ml. despite relatively low phenolic (0.183 ± 0.004 mg GAE/g) and flavonoid (0.103 ± 0.015 mg CAE/g) contents. GC-MS revealed four antioxidants, namely nerolidol-2, heptadecane, palmitic acid, and 9-octadecenoic acid, while LC-Q-Orbitrap-MS analysis detected nine antioxidant compounds, including kynurenic acid, 6- gingerol, and polyunsaturated fatty acids. In conclusion, C. reinwardti methanol extract is a promising source of antioxidant compounds.
​
​​​
Page 93-103
​
Muhammad Hamizan Zawawi, Zuraidah Abdullah and Sabreena Safuan
​
FIRST REPORT ON ANTIOXIDANT, ANTIDIABETIC, AND CYTOTOXICITY ASSESSMENT OF FRUIT AQUEOUS EXTRACT OF Scorodocarpus borneensis
​
Abstract
​
Scorodocarpus borneensis, commonly known as Kulim, is an underutilised tropical fruit valued for its medicinal purposes. Traditionally, Kulim has been used in food preparation and local alternative treatment for hemorrhoids, leprosy, diabetes, and diarrhea. This study aims to evaluate the antioxidant and antidiabetic potential of the Kulim fruit aqueous extract, along with its cytotoxicity profile on normal fibroblast cells. The extraction yield was recorded at 9.6%, indicating the effectiveness of aqueous ultrasonication. Total phenolic content and total flavonoid content analysis confirmed the presence of phenolic compounds and flavonoids, with a concentration of 7.11 ± 1.49 mg GAE/g extract and 6.7 ± 0.221 mg QE/g, respectively. Antioxidant activity measured via the DPPH assay revealed moderate radical scavenging capacity, with an IC50 value of 1.364 ± 0.366 mg/ml. In addition, the extract exhibited alpha-amylase inhibitory activity with an IC50 value of 0.026 ± 0.018 mg/mL, suggesting its potential in modulating postprandial blood glucose levels. Cytotoxicity was assessed using the MTT assay on L929 fibroblast cells, where the extract showed no significant toxicity, yielding an EC50 value of 5.915 ± 1.56 mg/mL. The extract also increased the cell viability under high-glucose conditions, suggesting a protective effect on normal cells. Overall, these findings support the potential of Kulim fruit aqueous extract as a natural source of antioxidant and antidiabetic agents. Further studies involving disease-specific models and in vivo assessments are warranted to validate its therapeutic applications.
​
​​​
Page 104-118
​​
Gusti Ayu Dewi Lestari, Angela Meichi Patriadila Puspita, I Putu Aditya Vidyananda, Ni Ketut Esati, Ni Luh Putu Kris Monika Yanti, Aliya Nur Hasanah and Balaprasad Ankamwar
​
IMPACT OF CANANG WASTE-DERIVED NANOSILVER SUNSCREEN ON TNF-α AND IL-1β EXPRESSION IN UVB-EXPOSED MICE SKIN
​
Abstract
​
This study aimed to test the sunscreen activity of green-synthesized nanosilver mediated by canang waste. This study was designed in several stages: green synthesis of nanosilver from canang waste and its characterisation; formulation of a green-synthesized nanosilver sunscreen cream; in vivo testing of the nanosunscreen and the inflammatory markers TNF-α and IL-1β. This study obtained results, namely the formation of green-synthesized nanosilver with a maximum wavelength of 410 nm, spherical shape, size of 63.94 nm, polydispersity index of 0.3026, zeta potential of -30.81 mV, and containing several functional groups that stabilise its formation. Furthermore, a green- synthesized nanosilver cream preparation was obtained that met the physical quality parameters of the cream. An in vivo study shows that the results of the positive control group were significantly different from those of the negative control group (p < 0.05). In contrast, the positive control group did not differ significantly from the F2 and F3 groups containing the active ingredient, green- synthesized nanosilver. This proves that green synthesised-nanosilver can play a role in protecting the skin from UV rays. In expression of TNF-α and IL-1β, green- synthesized nanosilver was able to suppress the inflammatory process/erythema caused by UVB rays with p-value > 0.05, which indicated that the results were not significantly different between normal skin without treatment and the F3 group, which used 3% green-synthesized nanosilver.
​
​​​
Page 119-130
​​
Huong Yew Sen, Norliza binti Julmohammad, Nurus Shobah Binti Mohd Rika, Siew Chee Kiong, Ho Ai Ling, Fithri Choirun Nisa and Azhar Mat Easa
​
EFFECT OF DRY HEATING ON THE PHYSICOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES AND ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITIES OF WHEY PROTEIN ISOLATE CONJUGATED WITH LACTOSE AND GLUCOSE VIA THE MAILLARD REACTION
​
Abstract
​
Whey protein isolate (WPI) is commonly used as a food ingredient, and its functional properties can be modified through Maillard conjugation with reducing sugars. However, the influence of sugar type on the resulting physicochemical changes and the resulting antioxidant properties under mild dry-heating conditions remains insufficiently understood. This study aimed to investigate the effects of lactose and glucose on the physicochemical characteristics and antioxidant properties of WPI during dry-heating at 60 °C and controlled relative humidity for up to 7 days. Commercial WPI (95% protein) was conjugated with lactose or glucose at a 1:1 (w/w) ratio and incubated for 0, 1, 4, and 7 days. Changes in color, browning intensity, and functional groups (FT-IR spectra) were analysed, and antioxidant activity was evaluated using DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging assays. Prolonged heating resulted in significant color changes (p < 0.05) in both WPI–lactose and WPI–glucose conjugates, with greater browning development observed in WPI–glucose. Correspondingly, WPI–glucose exhibited higher UV– Vis absorbance at 420 nm and a stronger radical scavenging activity than WPI– lactose after 7 days of conjugation. These findings highlighted that the choice of reducing sugar critically governed the progression of the Maillard reaction and enhanced the antioxidant activity of WPI under mild dry-heating conditions. Comparative insights into the selection of suitable reducing sugars for developing Maillard-conjugated whey protein ingredients with antioxidant potential were provided.
​
​​​