03/07/2025
By Jama Abdirizak

The Biomedical Engineering and Biotechnology program invites you to attend a doctoral dissertation defense by Jama Abdirizak on “Optimization and Evaluation of Hyacinth Plant Extract: A Potential Source of Novel Antimicrobial Compounds."

Ph.D. Candidate Name: Jama Abdirizak
Defense Date: Friday, March 28, 2025
Time: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Location: This will be a virtual via Zoom

Those interested in attending should contact Jama_Abdirizak@student.uml.edu or committee advisor at least 48 hours prior to the defense to request access to the meeting.

Committee:
• Guixin (Susan) He, Ph.D. (Supervisor) Associate Professor, Department of Biomedical and Nutritional Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell
• Horta Javier, MD, Ph.D. (Member) Associate Teaching Professor. Department of Biomedical and Nutritional Sciences University of Massachusetts Lowell
• Mingdi Yan, Ph.D. (Member) Professor, Chemistry, Center for Pathogen Research & Training (CPRT), University of Massachusetts Lowell

Abstract:
Antimicrobial resistance poses a global health challenge, necessitating the development of novel antimicrobial agents. Medicinal plants, such as the hyacinth (Lablab purpureus), are noted for their potential antimicrobial properties. This study optimized extraction methods for hyacinth leaf extracts and assessed their antimicrobial effectiveness. The optimization of ultrasonic-assisted, orbital shaker-assisted, and maceration extractions was performed using ethanol, methanol, hexane, acetone, and water. Response surface methodology (RSM) and R-software were used to determine the optimal conditions. The antimicrobial susceptibility tests were conducted by using CLSI M07. The results of susceptibility tests indicated that ethanol and methanol extracts of hyacinth leaf have strong antimicrobial activity independently. In addition, the extracts can enhance antimicrobial effectiveness of alkaloids, flavonoids, and saponins. These findings underscore the potential of hyacinth extracts as natural antimicrobial agents and support the need for further exploration of their therapeutic applications.