WORKS of Thomasian researchers earned recognition at the 47th Annual Scientific Meeting of the National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST), the country’s highest scientific advisory and recognition body.
Fr. Nicanor Austriaco, O.P., and faculty member Joe Manzano earned the Best Scientific Poster Award under the biological sciences division for their study on Rugulosin A, a natural compound found in fungi.
Titled “Molecular Investigations on the Polypharmacological Mechanisms of Rugulosin A, an Anthraquinone Derived from the Fungal Endophyte Diaporthe perseae,” the study aims to understand how Rugulosin A works in the body and affects multiple biological targets.
Manzano also won the Best Scientific Poster Award in the health sciences division for a study he co-authored with Prof. Mario Tan of the Department of Chemistry.
The study, titled “Pandanus amaryllifolius Roxb. Extracts and Alkaloids Confer Dual-Targeting Mechanistic Effects Against Alzheimer’s Disease by Inhibiting Amyloid-beta Aggregation and Formation of Advanced Glycation End-products In Vitro and In Silico,” explores the neuroprotective potential of the local plant species against Alzheimer’s disease.
In the mathematical and physical sciences division, Department of Chemistry Chair Assoc. Prof. Alan Salcedo received the Best Scientific Poster Award for the study “Dithizone-Modified Paper Sensor Coupled with Smartphone Colorimetry for Cadmium (II) Detection.”
The study offers a low-cost and portable approach to heavy metal detection.
UST alumni Trisha Gahol, Bea Panopio, and Ian Halim were among the co-authors of the award-winning paper.
Meanwhile, Prof. Cecilia Moran received a special citation under the NAST Environmental Science Award for her study titled “Surveys, Assessments and Environmental Monitoring of Key Economic Activities and Livelihoods Associated in the Mangroves (SAKALAM) of Del Carmen, Siargao Island.”
Moran’s research supported the successful designation of the Del Carmen Mangrove Forest as a Ramsar site, a status granted to wetlands recognized for their global ecological importance.
Asst. Prof. Ernesto Paruli III also received a special citation in the NAST Talent Search for Young Scientists for his study “A General Photoinferter Approach to the Surface Functionalization of Acyclic and Methacrylic Structures Written by Two-Photon Stereolithography.”
The study presents a faster method for adding functional coatings to light-printed 3D structures by modifying their surfaces after printing, allowing for easier production of materials used in sensors and smart devices.
Established in 1976, NAST is under the Department of Science and Technology.
The awarding ceremony was held July 9 to 10 at the Manila Hotel.
