Life on our planet can be divided into two classes of organisms. Firstly, prokaryotes, which are generally microscopic single cellular life forms that comprise bacteria and archaea. Secondly, eukaryotes, which account for most of the living things that can be observed by the naked eye, including plants and animals. The origin of the eukaryotic cell is one of the greatest mysteries in modern biology. Recently, DNA sequencing of environmental samples identified a new group of archaea that possess genes that appear to have similarity to distinctive eukaryotic genes. These organisms have been collectively named, Asgard archaea, after the home of the Gods in Norse mythology. Our laboratory has been exploring the properties of some of the protein machines that exist in Asgard archaea and has compared them to the more sophisticated eukaryotic versions. We have focused on the putative cytoskeletal proteins from Asgard archaea, which act as force generating systems in eukaryotes. We have shown that Asgard archaea possess an ancient, regulated actin system, which is likely to integrate force into membrane remodeling processes through directed actin polymerization. Furthermore, we have characterized an Asgard tubulin that forms tubules with a different morphology to microtubules. Finally, we have studied the translocon, a protein machine that sits in the cell membrane in prokaryotes and in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in eukaryotes. We provide experimental data on how this machine may have relocated during eukaryogenesis. These insights into the evolution of protein machines have implications for the potential archaea-to-eukaryotic transition. Asgard archaea offer an intriguing window into the pre-eukaryotic world. 

Medicinal plants have historically proven their value as a source of molecules with therapeutic potential, non-toxic, and presenting fewer side effects than conventional medicine. Scientific knowledge on natural products with functional properties, legislative actions to reduce the use of synthetic compounds, and consumer demand for high‐quality products have led to an increase in their applications. However, the journey from natural product researches to clinical practice involves a number of key steps. Initial research focuses on identifying and characterizing compounds from natural sources, followed by preclinical testing to assess their efficacy and safety. If promising, these compounds are then taken through clinical trials to evaluate their efficacy and safety in humans. This communication aims to illustrate context information on a long road to move our research findings on nutgalls from Quercus infectoria Olivier (Fagaceae) extract to clinical applications. Several aspects related to medical challenges will be discussed. Our researches have clearly demonstrated that nutgalls from Q. infectoria exhibit broad spectrum antibacterial,  anti-oxidant, as well as anti-inflammatory activities which could make it an interesting candidate compound for curing chronic wounds. Subsequently, a commercial prototype was developed and tested in diabetic mouse model. A clinical assessment of 51 voluntary patients with hard-to-heal chronic diabetic ulcers was further performed. Within 4 weeks, 30% of the volunteers demonstrated complete wound healing and 80% patients had complete wound healing by 2 months. All subjects presented no signs of irritation or side effects. In addition to curing wound infections, Q infectoria enhances wound healing process by promoting cell proliferation, re-epithelialization, and granulation tissue matrix. At present, Qi Care has been licensed and being commercially-available in the market. Challenges and difficulties encountered towards the move from academic researches to industries will be highlighted during the talk.

The age-related dysregulated inflammation plays an essential role as a major risk factor underlying the pathophysiological aging process. To better understand the complex phenomena of aging process at the molecular levels in connection to inflammatory process, we sequenced the transcriptome and methylome in kidney of young and aged rats using the next generation sequencing (NGS) analyses. We also evaluated newly emerged data on multi-phased inflammatory networks and pro-inflammatory pathways based on the rodent and human Omics big data and newly proposed our expanded view of the age-related senescent inflammation (we term it, senoinflammation) as a proposed novel concept. Recently, we found out Akt/FoxOs axis plays an important role in metabolic homeostasis, oxidative stress, and senoinflammation during aging process of organs and whole organism. Recent approaches have reported combining gene expression data with information on protein-protein interaction (PPI) in aging. To find key molecules which are controlled by aging and CR in mammal, the present study integrates microarrays and NGS data from rodent and human, and analyzes PPI network and signaling pathway from big data of public resources. Based on the integrative analysis, several proteins were selected as key molecules that have high degree and betweenness centrality scores in PPI network. More specifically, PPARs, lymphocyte-specific protein tyrosine kinase (LCK), TLRs, and protease-activated receptor 2 (PAR2) were upregulated by aging process and downregulated by CR. Furthermore, the recent study explores the potential regulators of key molecules such as inhibitor or activator using in silico docking simulation. From the docking results, the binding affinity of several MHY compounds for key molecules, PPARs, PAR2, and Sirt1,6 was higher than positive control modulators binding to key molecules. In addition, anti-senoinflammatory properties of active compounds, MHYs were confirmed, which will be discussed. A better understanding of the mechanisms underlying aging based on Akt/FoxOs axis and the mitigating role of CR will provide insights into the molecular mechanisms of senoinflammation and aging for potential interventions.

Interest in naturally derived polysaccharides has steadily increased over the past two decades. Their applications have expanded across a wide range of fields, including nutraceuticals, cosmeceuticals, pharmaceuticals, and biomedical sciences. As studies on the structure–activity relationship (SAR) of carbohydrate chains have advanced, the biological significance and functions of natural polysaccharides have become increasingly evident. These developments have been supported by remarkable progress in enabling technologies, including diverse separation and purification methods, structure-elucidating chemical reactions, and analytical tools such as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and mass spectrometry (MS).　Recent technological advancements have revealed that some polysaccharides possess irregular functional group patterns or branched saccharide units within otherwise regular structures. Notably, several polysaccharides have entered clinical trials in recent years, aiming to be approved as pharmaceuticals.

In the era of precision medicine, the identification of personalized cancer neoantigens is essential for the development of effective therapeutic cancer vaccines. This study presents an AI-powered platform, DeepOmicsNeo™, designed for accurate and individualized neoepitope prediction. By integrating next-generation sequencing (NGS) data with deep learning techniques, the platform addresses key challenges in identifying immunogenic peptides derived from somatic mutations in tumor genomes. DeepOmicsNeo™ employs a sophisticated architecture combining convolutional neural networks (CNN) and gated recurrent units (GRU) to encode peptide sequences and evaluate their binding affinity with patient-specific HLA alleles. The platform incorporates one-hot encoding, position-specific scoring matrices (PSSM), and epitope-flanking region analysis, enabling precise predictions across variable peptide lengths. The workflow begins with the detection of somatic variants using NGS, followed by HLA typing and peptide candidate generation. The model then predicts the immunogenicity and binding potential of these peptides, allowing for the selection of optimal neoepitope candidates suitable for personalized vaccine development. Compared to conventional methods, DeepOmicsNeo™ demonstrates superior predictive performance, particularly in identifying epitopes with high immunogenic potential. By combining AI-driven models with large-scale genomic data, the platform contributes to more efficient and reliable neoantigen discovery pipelines. This approach exemplifies how artificial intelligence and genomic technologies can be integrated to advance personalized immunotherapies. It offers a scalable and accurate solution for neoepitope prediction, ultimately supporting the design of individualized cancer treatment strategies that align with the goals of precision oncology.

The identification of bioactive natural compounds with anti-aging potential remains a critical focus in the field of regenerative medicine and geroscience. High-throughput cellular screening platforms are essential for the preliminary evaluation of candidate molecules. In this study, we developed a robust in vitro senescence model using human fibroblasts subjected to sub-lethal oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂). Senescent phenotypes were characterized by upregulation of canonical senescence markers, including p16INK4a, p21CIP1, and p53, increased senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) activity, and elevated secretion of senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) factors such as IL-6 and IL-8. This model provides a physiologically relevant platform for the screening of phytochemicals and natural extracts targeting cellular senescence. 

Recently, artificial intelligence (AI) and data technologies have been utilized across all industries to dramatically enhance work efficiency. These technologies have also become essential tools in natural product research. In the entire process of developing natural product materials, rapid and accurate screening is crucial for improving overall research and development (R&D) efficiency. The KIST Gangneung Institute of Natural Products, established in 2003, is a government-funded research institute specialized in natural product research. Our institute conducts A-to-Z research on natural products for drug development, including: 1) production of natural products based on smart farm technologies, 2) development of drug candidates derived from natural products, and 3) development of core technologies for the natural product-based bio-industry. To enhance the efficiency of R&D efforts, we have successfully developed our own AI-based protein target prediction technology (ECBS, Evolutionary Chemical Binding Similarity) and have been accumulating expertise in data utilization. In this seminar, I will introduce KIST’s AI technologies for natural product research, focusing on the in-house developed data-driven discovery platform ‘NPI-finder’ and ‘GinsenBank’, a database designed to predict the efficacy of ginsenoside compounds from various ginseng extracts. I will also present case studies on the research and development of bioactive natural product materials.

Plant cell, tissue, and organ culture (PCTOC) technologies offer sustainable and scalable platforms for producing bioactive phytochemicals applicable to food industries. These in vitro systems allow controlled production of functional ingredients such as flavors, colorants, sweeteners, antioxidants, and nutraceuticals, which have traditionally been sourced from whole plants. Recent advances in bioreactor culture have enabled efficient large-scale production of such compounds using adventitious roots, hairy roots, and somatic embryos. For instance, bioreactor-based Panax ginseng root culture has achieved commercially viable yields of ginsenosides, while Echinacea purpurea root cultures have produced cichoric and chlorogenic acids useful in dietary supplements. Since the approval of cultured mountain ginseng roots as a food ingredient by the Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety in 2003, over two decades of stable use in various food products have provided a real-world example of the safety and applicability of PCTOC-derived materials. Although the use of plant growth regulators, synthetic elicitors, and the formation of complex mixtures may raise safety or regulatory concerns, these can be effectively addressed through optimized culture systems and regulatory oversight. The success of ginseng root culture highlights the importance of selecting traceable source materials, ensuring genetic and biochemical stability, and applying precise extraction and processing methods. It also demonstrates the feasibility of establishing standardized safety assessment protocols. In conclusion, PCTOC-derived products represent a promising, safe, and innovative alternative for sourcing high-value food ingredients, with strong potential for broader application in the global functional food and nutraceutical markets.

With its remarkable biodiversity and long-standing tradition of using wild medicinal plants, Viet Nam is under increasing pressure to meet the growing demand for plant-based medicinal products. This highlights an urgent need for sustainable and efficient propagation systems that enhance both biomass production and the accumulation of valuable bioactive compounds. In vitro tissue and organ culture techniques, particularly adventitious root and rhizome cultures, offer promising alternatives to conventional cultivation by providing controlled environments for rapid and consistent growth and metabolite biosynthesis. This study presents recent advancements in the application of plant biotechnology to several native Vietnamese medicinal plants. We focused on optimizing culture conditions to maximize biomass yield and secondary metabolite production. Key species studied included Panax vietnamensis Ha et Grushv., Polygonum multiflorum, and Centella asiatica via adventitious root cultures; and Anoectochilus lylei through rhizome cultures. Various culture parameters such as medium strength, combinations of plant growth regulators, and supplementation with elicitor compounds, were systematically examined. Our findings revealed significant improvements in shoot and rhizome induction, root development, and notably, in the accumulation of critical secondary metabolites such as saponins, kinsenoside, polysaccharides, flavonoids, and phenolics. These results confirm that in vitro systems not only facilitate the large-scale propagation of medicinal species but also provide effective platforms for boosting the production of pharmaceutically relevant compounds. Its also highlights the necessity of strategically integrating plant biotechnology for medicinal plant conservation, sustainable resource management, and the development of high-value herbal products in Vietnam. Furthermore, challenges in scaling up these systems for commercial use and future research directions are also discussed.

Lavandula angustifolia is recognized for its valuable bioactive compounds, yet there is limited research on the physiological, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin-protective activities of its cell suspension culture extracts. In this study, we developed a high-yield method to enhance rosmarinic acid (RA) production using methyl jasmonate (MJ) elicitation. MJ treatment significantly activated the expression of structural genes involved in RA biosynthesis, thereby greatly increasing RA accumulation.  The MJ-treated cell culture extract (LC-MJ) demonstrated potent antioxidant activity, inhibited melanin synthesis, and enhanced procollagen synthesis in vitro. LC-MJ extract also improved fibroblast viability and reduced early apoptosis under UVB-induced oxidative stress. In lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage models, LC-MJ extract suppressed secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6) through inhibition of MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways. Overall, these results highlight the potential of LC-MJ extract as a promising multifunctional agent for cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications, particularly in skin protection, anti-aging, and inflammation-related conditions.

The exploration and utilization of natural products for therapeutic and commercial purposes have made significant advancements in recent years. In this project, the establishment of a next-generation tissue culture cell bank is essential for preserving natural products derived from various plant species, applying them in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries, and developing sustainable resources. This study aims to evaluate the functional components and efficacy of candidate plant species for the construction of a next-generation tissue culture cell line bank dedicated to the preservation and research of natural products derived from plants. The candidate plant species included in the cell line bank encompass cell lines derived from various plants. We performed a comprehensive analysis of key bioactive markers, such as geniposide from Gardenia jasminoides, hyperoside from Abelmoschus manihot (sunset muskmallow), lutein from Spinacia oleracea and phenolic compounds from Aster yomena using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). These compounds were quantified across various extraction methods, including 100% ethanol, 50% ethanol, and distilled water extracts, to determine the most effective extraction techniques. The results revealed significant variations in compound concentration depending on the extraction method, highlighting the importance of optimized extraction protocols for maximizing the yield of bioactive substances. Additionally, antioxidant activity was evaluated using DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and ABTS (2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)) assays. The ethanol extracts of these samples exhibited potent free radical scavenging activities, suggesting their strong potential as natural antioxidants. Beyond antioxidant activities, we also investigated the anti-aging (collagen synthesis) and skin-whitening (melanin inhibition) effects of these extracts on specific cell lines, demonstrating their potential applicability in the development of functional cosmetics. The establishment of this tissue culture cell bank provides a critical resource for the ongoing research and development of natural products. It facilitates the preservation of valuable plant species and serves as a robust platform for the systematic study of the efficacy of natural compounds. The findings from this research have significant implications for the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries, particularly in the development of new products aimed at enhancing skin health and preventing aging. Additionally, this study underscores the importance of integrating advanced biotechnological approaches in natural product research, offering a sustainable pathway for the discovery and commercialization of plant-derived compounds.

Agarwood, primarily produced by the genus Aquilaria, is widely used in traditional medicines and health supplements in Korea. To ensure compliance with domestic standards, stringent authentication of agarwood is essential for its import and commercial distribution. Here we analyzed ten agarwood samples from the Korean market to assess their authenticity. DNA barcoding using internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) revealed that only three samples belonged to the genus Aquilaria. However, the genus of the remaining seven samples could not be clearly identified; possibly because of unsuccessful DNA extraction. To address this gap, chemical fingerprinting using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and field investigations in Indonesia were conducted. The HPLC profiles of these unidentified samples corresponded with those of a swamp-dwelling plant known locally as “Ramin”, which was subsequently identified through DNA analysis as Gonystylus bancanus. This finding confirmed that the DNA non-extractable samples were not from agarwood trees. Furthermore, the study successfully differentiated two common Aquilaria species, A. malaccensis and A. crassna, using the trnF-ndhJ barcode in combination with ITS2, thereby meeting Korean standards for using A. malaccensis in food. Thus, the integrated HPLC fingerprinting and DNA barcoding method demonstrated in this study represents a rapid, reliable, and efficient approach for verifying the authenticity of agarwood, and contributes to protecting consumer health and maintaining industry standards.

Age-related skeletal muscle loss and dysfunction are closely associated with metabolic dysregulation and increased risk of secondary chronic diseases. The development of natural product-based strategies that support muscle health through metabolic modulation is gaining increasing attention. In this study, we investigated the effects of Gloiopeltis tenax aqueous extract (GTAE), a red algae-derived bioactive material, on muscle differentiation and atrophy using both in vitro and in vivo models. In C2C12 myoblasts, GTAE significantly promoted myogenic differentiation and mitochondrial biogenesis, as evidenced by increased expression of PGC-1α and elevated mitochondrial content. Moreover, GTAE alleviated dexamethasone (DEX)-induced myotube atrophy by activating the Akt signaling pathway and suppressing the Atrogin-1/MuRF1-mediated proteolytic axis. In a DEX-induced muscle atrophy mouse model, oral administration of GTAE protected against muscle loss and improved mitochondrial function and muscle mass. These results indicate that GTAE regulates key metabolic pathways involved in muscle health and energy homeostasis. Therefore, GTAE represents a promising natural metabolic modulator with potential applications as a medical nutrition therapy for aging-related muscle disorders.

The microbiota-derived short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) butyrate is known to act beyond the gut to influence host metabolism, including its central nervous system regulation of appetite and energy homeostasis. However, mechanistic insights into central butyrate metabolic actions are undetermined. In this study, we demonstrate that primary cilia of agouti-related peptide (AgRP) neurons in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus are essential mediators of butyrate’s anorexigenic effects and glucose homeostasis. Notably, peripheral or central butyrate administration significantly enhanced hypothalamic ciliogenesis, possibly through increased histone acetylation and activation of ciliogenic transcription factors, leading to suppressed food intake and improved systemic metabolism. Disruption of primary cilia in the entire hypothalamus or specifically in AgRP neurons—but not in ventromedial hypothalamic neurons—abolished butyrate’s metabolic effects, underscoring the essential role of AgRP neuron cilia in whole-body energy homeostasis. At the neuronal level, butyrate exerted an inhibitory effect on the AgRP neurons. However, this inhibitory effect was significantly diminished following the deletion of primary cilia, indicating that cilia are required for butyrate’s inhibitory influence on AgRP neuronal activity. Together, these findings highlight the critical role of primary cilia in AgRP neurons in mediating the metabolic actions of butyrate.

Osteoblasts are commonly referred to as the cells responsible for "building" bones. These cells play a crucial role in osteogenesis. Osteoblasts synthesize and deposit organic proteins that form the bone matrix, or osteoid, which subsequently undergoes mineralization in both developing skeletons and during the constant bone remodeling. Ginsenosides are compounds derived from the Panax plant that is known for their pharmacological activity. Several ginsenosides, including Rb1, Rb2, and Re, are recognized for enhancing bone formation and reducing bone resorption. However, the exact role of the ginsenoside F1 has not been studied in relation to bone metabolism. In the current study, we report for the first time a direct effect of F1-ginsenosides on osteoblasts differentiation derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). From gene expression analysis and protein level determination we observed increased levels of osteogenic transcription factors in F1-induced BMSCs in comparison to untreated cells. We also observed elevated osteogenic factors in the differentiation and proliferation of osteoblasts in primary bone cells obtained from the mouse femur. For elucidating the underlying downstream signaling pathway by which F1 induces osteoblast differentiation, we used RNA-sequencing to identify bone morphogenetic protein receptor, type 1b (BMPR1b) and SMAD4 as the differentially expressed genes. Molecular docking with F1 showed direct interactions between F1-BMPR1b and F1-SMAD4, indicating the active role of BMP-activated SMAD pathway in F1-induced differentiation of osteoblasts. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that F1-ginsenoside enhances osteoblast differentiation from BMSCs through BMP-SMAD signaling pathway, highlighting its potential therapeutic benefits in bone metabolism. 

Exercise has beneficial effects on several organs. A biochemical understanding of exercise has been considered a novel pharmaceutical strategy to find molecules to deliver exercise effects. These effects are often mediated by myokines, muscle-secreted factors for tissue crosstalk. Irisin is a myokine induced by exercise in skeletal muscle. Irisin is a polypeptide of 12kDa that is cleaved from a type I membrane protein called FNDC5. FNDC5 is expressed mainly in skeletal muscle, heart, and brain. FNDC5 mRNA increases in adult human muscles with several forms of endurance exercise. Advanced Tandem Mass Spectrometry has demonstrated that human irisin circulates at hormone-like levels and increases as a consequence of endurance exercise. Since its discovery in 2012, irisin has been shown to affect bone, fat, and brain. In many cases, irisin’s effects are reminiscent of those derived from physical exercise, including improved cognition in mice. Here, we identified the major receptor for irisin as the αV integrin family and its cofactor as cluster of differentiation 81 (CD81) with quantitative proteomics using mass spectrometry. Irisin treatment increased phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK), and genetic deletion of CD81 or treatment of integrin αV inhibitors blunted the signaling. Genetic deletion of integrin β1 or integrin β5, dimer partners of integrin αV, prevented irisin-induced FAK phosphorylation. Irisin treatment delivered endurance exercise effects including bone remodeling and fat thermogenesis via the integrin αV-CD81 complex. Overall, this study suggests that irisin can be utilized for therapeutic approaches to find cures for several diseases which can be relieved by endurance exercise.

Artemisia princeps (A. princeps), a species of the Asteraceae family, is a medicinal plant traditionally used in East Asian countries such as Korea, China, and Japan. Its leaves, commonly consumed as tea, have long been utilized for the treatment of inflammatory conditions, gastrointestinal disorders, and circulatory dysfunctions. Phytochemical analyses have revealed that A. princeps is particularly rich in flavonoids, caffeoylquinic acids, and monoterpenoids—compounds known for their diverse bioactivities, including antioxidant, antiviral, antimalarial, and anticancer effects. In this study, we investigated the effects of bioactive constituents derived from A. princeps on stem cell behavior, with a specific focus on protocatechualdehyde (PCA), a phenolic aldehyde identified as one of its major active components. We examined the impact of PCA on stem cells derived from various tissue origins, with particular attention to its potential to inhibit cancer stem cell (CSC) activity. Through molecular and cellular assays, we elucidated the signaling pathways modulated by PCA, highlighting its role in impairing CSC self-renewal and survival. These findings contribute to the growing body of evidence supporting the therapeutic potential of plant-derived compounds in stem cell modulation and cancer treatment, suggesting that PCA may serve as a promising candidate for further preclinical development.

The pursuit of “reverse aging” has evolved from a theoretical ideal into a concrete research objective, driven by demographic shifts, technological advances, and evolving consumer expectations. In dermatology, the focus has moved beyond merely slowing visible aging to restoring youthful skin function at the cellular level. Accordingly, strategies that stimulate regeneration, suppress senescence, and restore dermal vitality are increasingly valued. Plant cell technology offers a powerful solution. Dedifferentiated plant cells—especially in callus form—are rich in polyphenols and bioactive phytochemicals with proven regenerative and anti-inflammatory effects. These compounds not only protect plants but also promote cellular rejuvenation in human skin through senoinflammation reduction, mitochondrial activation, and extracellular matrix remodeling. Moh’s Recipe, developed by BIO-FD&C, is a pioneering skincare brand based on this plant cell biotechnology. Designed to target facial reverse aging, it utilizes stable, sustainable production of high-value phytochemicals to stimulate collagen, renew the epidermis, and reactivate key cellular signaling. Years of R&D have enabled the brand to deliver potent, science-backed formulas tailored for next-generation skincare needs. As a result, Moh’s Recipe is poised to lead the next wave of K-beauty innovation, transforming plant vitality into visible skin rejuvenation and redefining global standards for anti-aging cosmetics.

Mitophagy, the selective autophagic removal of damaged mitochondria, plays a critical role in maintaining cellular homeostasis and is closely associated with aging, neurodegenerative diseases, and metabolic disorders. Dysregulation of mitophagy leads to impaired mitochondrial quality control, excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and cellular dysfunction. In this study, we aimed to identify novel small-molecule modulators of mitophagy derived from marine natural products. A diverse library of marine-derived extracts and compounds was screened using mitophagy reporter systems, including Parkin-GFP translocation and mt-Keima-based assays, to quantify mitophagic activity. Promising candidates were further validated through functional analyses, including assessments of mitochondrial membrane potential, ROS levels, LC3-II and p62 protein expression, and mitophagic flux. Our findings suggest that marine natural products are a valuable source of bioactive compounds capable of modulating mitophagy and may provide new therapeutic leads for aging-related and mitochondrial dysfunction-associated diseases.

Skin aging is a multifaceted biological process, and relying on a single marker or pathway is insufficient to fully capture the complexity of cellular senescence. In this study, we developed a skin-specific aging model using serially passaged human dermal fibroblasts to induce replicative senescence. Given that fibroblasts are central to extracellular matrix maintenance and skin structure, they serve as a valuable cellular system for studying diverse aspects of skin aging. Comprehensive transcriptome analysis was performed on young and senescent fibroblasts to identify gene expression changes associated with aging. By mapping differentially expressed genes to enriched biological pathways, we identified multiple aging-associated molecular networks, including inflammation, extracellular matrix remodeling, mitochondrial dysfunction, and cell cycle regulation. These findings enabled us to establish a robust set of aging indicators, which form the basis for evaluating anti-aging interventions. Leveraging this transcriptomic framework, we further developed a screening platform to identify natural compounds with rejuvenating potential. This system facilitates the discovery of candidate substances capable of reversing or delaying skin aging, and provides a multi-parameter approach for assessing cellular rejuvenation in vitro. Overall, this work offers a comprehensive strategy for skin aging evaluation and opens new avenues for the development of evidence-based anti-aging therapies.

Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology enables the reprogramming of somatic cells into a pluripotent state, offering a patient-specific and ethically sound alternative to embryonic stem cells. This advancement has opened new possibilities in disease modeling, drug discovery, and regenerative medicine. In this presentation, I will provide a concise overview of the core principles of iPSC reprogramming and recent improvements in efficiency and safety. We will also highlight key applications, such as the generation of disease-relevant cell types and personalized therapeutic approaches. Current challenges—including genomic instability and immunogenicity—will be briefly addressed. iPSC technology continues to evolve as a foundational tool in modern biomedical research, paving the way for more accurate and individualized treatments.

Accumulating evidence has shown the beneficial effects of phytocompounds for the treatment of cognitive impairments. Here, first demonstrated, treatment with garcinol can increase the synthesis of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and regulates synaptic function via postsynaptic density protein-95 (PSD-95) in acrylamide-treated (ACR; 6 mM/24h) PC12 neuroblastoma. The results demonstrated garcinol (GAR) can improve acrylamide-induced decrease in cell viability, increased malondialdehyde content, ROS overproduction, and reduced mitochondrial membrane potential in PC12 neuroblastoma in a dose-dependent manner. The outcomes were compared with standard rivastigmine. Altogether we demonstrated the neuroprotective effect of garcinol was associated with the amelioration of oxidative stress, and improvement of mitochondrial function, which in turn improved BDNF protein and mRNA expression and resulted in the maintenance of synaptic strength of neurons via PSD-95. This thrown light on the neuro-restorative effects of garcinol in cognitive disorder as a memory enhancer and proposes the potential application of garcinol in practice and further investigation in vivo.

As the presence of acrylamide in food results in evident cognitive decline, accumulation of misfolded proteins, neurotoxicity, neuroinflammation, and neuronal apoptosis leading to progressive neurodegeneration. Next, we used 4 dpf zebrafish larvae exposed to acrylamide (1mM/3days) as our model and analyzed neuronal proteins. Next, we tested the effect of garcinol (LD50), to determine its neuroprotection mechanism of action against acrylamide-mediated neurotoxicity. Our result revealed that acrylamide exposure significantly impaired cognitive behavior, downregulated oxidative repair machinery, and enhanced microglia-induced neuronal apoptosis. Moreover, acrylamide mediated cathepsin-B (CAT-B) translocation acted as the intracellular secretase for the processing of amyloid precursor protein (APP) and served as an additional risk factor for tau hyper-phosphorylation. Here, garcinol suppresses acrylamide mediated CAT-B translocation as similar to standard inhibitor CA-074. And, this pharmacological repression helped in inhibiting amyloidogenic APP processing and downstream tau hyper-phosphorylation. Garcinol mediated neuroprotection was accompanied by CREB, ATF1, and BDNF activation promoting neuronal survival. At the same time, garcinol subdued cdk5 and GSK3β, the link between APP processing and tau hyper-phosphorylation. Taken together, these findings indicate that garcinol rescued from acrylamide mediated behavioral defects, oxidative injury, neuroinflammation, undesirable APP processing, tau hyper-phosphorylation which in turn were found to be CAT-B dependent.

Overactivation of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) are triggers for loss of synaptic density which leads to neurodegenerative disorders. Next, we evaluated the effects of garcinol on scopolamine-induced endoplasmic reticulum stress in PC12 neuroblastoma by a mechanism dependent on the activation of NMDARs. Furthermore, we discriminated the role of the NMDAR subunits GluN2A and GluN2B in this process. Our data revealed, scopolamine impairs cytosolic Ca2+ homeostasis and induces ER stress. On the contrary, garcinol significantly prevented the loss in cell viability, ER-stress mediated apoptotic pathway, and translocation of CHOP in scopolamine-treated PC12 neuroblastoma. Besides, garcinol application significantly reduces scopolamine-mediated NMDAR excitotoxicity as compared with both MK801 and memantine, known antagonists for GluN2B subunit of NMDAR. Furthermore, garcinol administration rescued motor neuron survival as measured by PSD-95 and ameliorated nNOS imbalance. These results were mirrored in vivo in a zebrafish larvae model of NMDAR mediated neuronal excitotoxicity. Results revealed scopolamine-induced ER stress was prevented by garcinol which acted as an antagonist of the GluN2B subunit. Taken together, our results highlighted the potential role of garcinol as an antagonist of NMDAR, which can prevent NMDAR excitotoxicity and can be a potential therapeutic molecule against neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s. 

As scopolamine, is a neuro-active environmental pollutant and a known contaminant of food and feeding stuff, and also reported to affect both peripheral and central nervous systems by mitochondrial impairments. Hence, next, we sought to investigates the possible protective mechanism of dietary garcinol in a dose-dependent manner on scopolamine. And also raises concerns about the long-lasting effects of scopolamine exposure on brain functions at later life stages. To this aim first, we first used zebrafish embryos to investigate the scopolamine-induced teratogenic effects, and corresponding neurotoxicity and its impact on mitophagy using 4-day larvae. We demonstrated impaired swimming behavior, alteration in acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, overexpression of both intracellular and mitochondrial ROS, imbalance in bioenergetics was accompanied by reduced (p≤0.0001) PINK and Parkin levels and resulted in caspase-mediated neuronal apoptosis after scopolamine exposure. Garcinol treatment with 1 µM (p≤0.05) was able to subdue the scopolamine-induced changes in AChE, locomotor behavior, and reduction in mitochondrial complex activities along with ATP production. Binding analysis and immunoprecipitation studies revealed garcinol can bind with PINK1. This resulted in Parkin recruitment (1 µM; p≤0.001) and promoted p62 (1 µM; p≤0.0001), which in turn served as a bridge to link depolarized and damaged mitochondria to autophagosomes by activating LC3B (3 µM; p≤0.0001) as evidenced by Western immunoblot analysis. Interestingly, garcinol prevented scopolamine-induced oxidative stress by activating Nrf2 (1 µM; p≤0.0001) and reduces the release of cytochrome-c (cyto-c; 1 µM; p≤0.0001) from depolarized mitochondria. Collectively, this work suggested that garcinol can reduce oxidative stress, increase mitochondrial complex activities and ATP amounts in the zebrafish larval brains, and induces mitophagy through the PINK/Parkin-dependent pathway, and protects against scopolamine-induced neuronal apoptosis via Nrf2/Keap1 signaling. 

Cognitive erosion and memory impairment as a result of oxidative brain damage are the critical pathological hallmarks of neurodegenerative disorders. Based on the potential neuroprotective effects of garcinol, here we investigated the underlying neuroprotective mechanism of garcinol against the scopolamine-induced alteration in the levels of stress kinase and resulting neurodegeneration in the hippocampus and cortex of C57BL/6 mice brain. We found scopolamine administration resulted in a considerable increase in ROS generation, reduced mitochondrial membrane potential suggesting induction of neuronal apoptosis and neurodegeneration. On the contrary, Western immunoblot analysis of pro-survival pathway proteins revealed treatment with garcinol resulted in neuronal survival. Further, a considerable reduction in the scopolamine-induced neuronal loss was observed in the protein levels of Bax, Caspase-3, caspase-9, and cPARP-1 after garcinol co-treatment. We also assessed the suitability of garcinol by employing inhibitors. We also found that scopolamine disrupted synaptic integrity and, conversely, that garcinol enhanced synaptic integrity as indicated by synaptophysin and, PSD-95 protein expression levels. Besides, garcinol ameliorated scopolamine-induced impairments in spatial learning behavior and memory formation as evident by Y-maze, novel object detection behavior analysis, Morris water maze evaluation, and protein level of memory marker BDNF. Overall, these results explicate that garcinol administration not only reduces the neuronal apoptosis leading to neurodegeneration but also improves synaptic dysfunctions in scopolamine administered mice. 

Insulin resistance plays a pivotal role in the onset of several human diseases like type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. Intriguingly, both insulin resistance and hypertension exhibit similar abnormalities, such as heightened oxidative stress, inflammation, and organelle dysfunction. Our recent studies revealed that elevated intracellular Ca2+, a recognized pathogenic factor in hypertension, disrupts insulin signaling by creating Ca2+-phosphoinositides. These compounds obstruct AKT, an essential kinase signaling molecule, from anchoring to the membrane. The question remains: can curbing intracellular Ca2+ overload enhance insulin sensitivity? Our research now demonstrates that candesartan, an antihypertensive drug, offers unexpected benefits in countering insulin resistance compared to other angiotensin-II receptor blockers. Candesartan considerably minimized the palmitic acid (PA)-induced surge in intracellular Ca2+ and lipid buildup. This was achieved by correcting the imbalances in store-operated channel (SOC)-driven Ca2+ inflow into cells. As a result, candesartan mitigated the PA-triggered insulin resistance by encouraging insulin-triggered AKT membrane attachment and amplifying the phosphorylation of AKT and related substrates. In vivo experiments with obese mice revealed that candesartan effectively reduces insulin resistance, liver fat accumulation, dyslipidemia, and tissue inflammation. This was attributed to the suppression of dysregulated SOC-mediated Ca2+ entry and ectopic lipid accumulation. The consequential changes in key signaling molecules' phosphorylation improved insulin signaling by promoting post-meal AKT membrane attachment and phosphorylation. In summary, our research underscores the profound role of intracellular Ca2+ overload in causing insulin resistance. Importantly, it highlights the potential of repositioning existing medications like candesartan for simultaneously treating insulin resistance and hypertension.

Platycodon grandiflorus is a traditional medicinal plant known for its beneficial effects on respiratory health and immune enhancement. It contains various bioactive compounds such as saponins, flavonoids, and polyphenols. These components contribute to reducing cellular damage and preventing age-related functional decline through their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Notably, when plant-based materials are fermented with lactic acid bacteria, the bioavailability of their active compounds is enhanced, often leading to strengthened health-promoting effects. In this study, Platycodon grandiflorus extract was fermented using Weissella cibaria HY207, an antioxidant lactic acid bacterium derived from kimchi, to evaluate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of the fermented product. In addition, the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging effects were analyzed by orally administering the fermented Platycodon extract and HY207 to aged mice. Fermented Platycodon grandiflorus extract enhanced antioxidant activity and improved viability in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. It reduced NO and ROS levels and downregulated inflammatory mediators (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, iNOS, COX-2), while upregulating antioxidant enzymes (catalase, SOD, HO-1). These findings suggest that the extract modulates both NF-κB and Nrf2 pathways, exerting dual antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Oral administration of Platycodon grandiflorus extract to 26-month-old aged mice reduced inflammatory markers (CRP, IL-6, IL-8) in blood serum. In the liver, Western blot analysis showed decreased expression of inflammation- and aging-related genes such as NF-κB, SIRT1, iNOS, COX-2, p21, and p16. Notably, the group treated with both Weissella cibaria HY207 and fermented Platycodon extract showed the most significant anti-inflammatory and anti-aging effects. These results suggest that fermentation with HY207 enhances the extract’s bioactivity and that the combined intake may be effective for immune regulation and delaying aging, highlighting its potential as a functional supplement against age-related inflammation and oxidative stress.

Hair loss is affected by multiple stress factors and disturbances in the hair follicle growth cycle. Hair follicles rely on oxygen and nutrients delivered by blood vessels to support hair generation and regeneration. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a metabolite of testosterone produced by 5α-reductase, is well known for its role in causing male pattern baldness. Extensive research is being conducted on natural plant-derived substances to address hair loss. In this study, we evaluated the effects of Astragalus sinicus, a medicinal herb, on human follicle dermal papilla cells (HFDPCs) and human microvascular endothelial cells (HDEMCs) exposed to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Our results showed that extracts of Astragalus sinicus (ASEs) promoted wound healing and increased alkaline phosphatase activity in DHT-damaged HFDPCs. ASEs also reduced DHT-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and restored mitochondrial membrane potential, leading to elevated ATP levels in these cells. Additionally, ASEs significantly enhanced the phosphorylation of proteins in the AKT/ERK signaling pathway and activated the Wnt pathway in DHT-damaged HFDPCs. We also demonstrated that ASEs demonstrated no cytotoxicity at concentrations up to 400 ppm and significantly promoted wound healing in DHT-treated HDMECs. Moreover, ASEs effectively reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and suppressed the phosphorylation of JNK, ERK, and p38 in these damaged cells. Notably, ASEs restored tube formation capacity in DHT-impaired HDMECs. Collectively, these findings suggest that ASEs hold promise as a potential ingredient for improving hair loss treatments.

Korea, being surrounded by the sea, provides a rich habitat for marine sponges, which have been a prolific source of bioactive natural products. Although a diverse array of structurally novel natural products has been isolated from Korean marine sponges, their biosynthetic origins remain largely unknown. To explore the biosynthetic potential of Korean marine sponges, we conducted metagenomic analyses of sponges inhabiting the East Sea of Korea. This analysis revealed a symbiotic association of Candidatus Entotheonella bacteria with Halichondria sponges. Here, we report a new chemically rich Entotheonella variant, which we named Ca. Entotheonella halido. Remarkably, this symbiont makes up 69% of the microbial community in the sponge Halichondira dokdoensis. Genome-resolved metagenomics enabled us to obtain a high-quality Ca. E. halido genome, which represents the largest (12 Mb) and highest quality among previously reported Entotheonella genomes. We also identified the biosynthetic gene cluster (BGC) of the known sponge-derived Halicylindramides from the Ca. E. halido genome, enabling us to determine their biosynthetic origin. This new symbiotic association expands the host diversity and biosynthetic potential of metabolically talented bacterial genus Ca. Entotheonella symbionts. In this talk, by analyzing the metagenome of Korean marine sponges, we aim to introduce that the study of their symbiotic microorganisms could become a novel and significant source with high developmental potential for future natural product research.

Industrial wastewater containing toxic dyes and pollutants poses a significant environmental challenge, requiring sustainable and efficient treatment solutions. This study focuses on the development of graphene oxide–cellulose nanocrystal (GO-CNC) nanocomposites for effective wastewater remediation. Cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) were extracted from corncob agro-waste via acid hydrolysis, while graphene oxide (GO) was synthesized using a modified Hummer’s method, ensuring sustainability and enhanced adsorption properties. The GO-CNC nanocomposites were fabricated through an evaporation-induced phase separation (EIPS) technique to ensure uniform dispersion and stable structure. Structural and functional characteristics were analyzed using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA/DTG), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis (EDX). Adsorption studies were conducted using UV-Vis spectroscopy and Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) under various conditions. Results showed high adsorption efficiency for organic dyes, particularly Crystal Violet. Nanocomposites with higher GO content achieved a strong correlation with the Freundlich isotherm model (R² = 94.573), indicating multilayer adsorption, and followed pseudo-second-order kinetics, suggesting chemisorption. In conclusion, the GO-CNC nanocomposites demonstrated excellent performance in pollutant removal, offering a low-cost, biodegradable, and high-efficiency material for industrial wastewater treatment. Their multifunctionality and eco-friendly synthesis highlight their potential in advancing sustainable water purification technologies.

This study examined the biological activity of Ruellia tuberosa L. Extracts in vitro conditions. Results revealed that ethanol extracts showed the presence of flavonoids, steroids, and terpenoids. The content of flavonoids in ethanol extracts from leaves, stems and roots of Ruellia tuberosa L. was 85.80±4.00 mg/g, 50.47±7.02 mg/g, and 7.06±0.14 mg/g dried extract, respectively. IC50 values of three extracts scavenging free radicals were 184.8 μg/mL (leaf extract), 224.9 μg/mL (stem extract), and 325.3 μg/mL (root extract). Results also showed the inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities with IC50 values of 388.2 and 142.8 μg/mL for leaf extract, 721.1 and 240.7 μg/mL for stem extract, 513.2 and 176.9 μg/mL for root extract, respectively. The Lineweaver-Burk kinetic analysis revealed the mixed inhibition for α-amylase and α-glucosidase in the cases of all three extracts with Ki values of 120.2 and 66.7 μg/mL (leaf extract); 352.7 and 201.3 μg/mL (stem extract); 223.0 and 75.3 μg/mL (root extract), respectively. To identify the active components of leaf extract that showed the highest inhibitory effect on α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities, the leaf extract was partitioned with n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and water, successively. The n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and water fractions revealed the inhibitory activity on enzymes with IC50 values of 257.5; 1,292.1, and 592.6 μg/mL for α-amylase and 72.4, 341.2, and 179.3 μg/mL for α-glucosidase, respectively. The n-hexane fraction from leaf extract increased the inhibition of α-amylase activity up to 66.33% and that of α-glucosidase activity up to 50.66%. Based on the good results of these experiments about the inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities, Ruellia tuberosa L.  extracts should be used for further applications. 

The escalating global environmental challenges, including climate change, pollution, and resource depletion, necessitate innovative solutions. One powerful approach involves valorizing natural product wastes into health-benefiting compounds, such as functional oligosaccharides. This strategy not only reduces waste accumulation and mitigates greenhouse gas emissions (CO2 and CH4) and particulate matter (PMs), but also fosters a circular economy, contributing significantly to environmental, economic, and social sustainability.

Natural product wastes, abundant in biopolymers like mannan, xylan, and chitin, present a substantial opportunity for generating diverse value-added products with health benefits for humans and animals. Oligosaccharides derived from the degradation of these carbohydrate polymers have demonstrated numerous health benefits. Enzyme technology plays a pivotal role in the environmentally friendly valorization process as it can be used to precisely generate oligosaccharides by hydrolysis reaction in a mild condition.

Our laboratory has successfully developed various recombinant Bacillus hydrolytic enzymes, e.g. xylanase (XynA), mannanase (ManB), chitinase (ChiA) and chitosanase (CsnA), suitable for the bioconversion of xylan, mannan, and chitin/chitosan into functional oligosaccharides, i.e., xylo-oligosaccharides (XOS), mannan-oligosaccharides (MOS), and chito-oligosaccharides (CHOS). Recent research indicates that, in addition to their established prebiotic effects, the soluble oligosaccharides generated through our technology also exhibit potent anti-inflammatory activity, comparable to that of the steroid dexamethasone. These compounds hold significant potential as key ingredients in nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, and feed additives. This approach is readily extendable to diverse biopolymers, promising the exciting creation of innovative natural products for beneficial metabolic health and longevity.

Curcuma singularis Gagnep is a Vietnamese medicinal plant which has been commonly used as a medicinal remedy in traditional and folk medicines for improving health as well as for treating some diseases, like rheumatoid arthritis, kidney failure. However, pharmacological effects, including anti-cancer activity and the safety of this plant has not been fully investigated. This study aimed to investigate the in vitro anti-growth activity of an extract derived from Curcuma singularis rhizome extract (CSE) against cell lines as well as determine its phytochemical composition. The other goal of our study was to assess the safety of CSE in rats. The main constituents in the extract were identified and quantitatively analyzed. The in vitro cytotoxicity of CSE was evaluated in several cancer and normal cell lines. The apoptotic activity of CSE and the expression of the apoptosis-related genes were investigated in AGS cells to clarify the underlying molecular mechanisms. The in vivo toxicity of CSE was assessed via acute and subacute oral studies on Sprague-Dawley rats, respectively according to the guidelines 425 and 407 of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). The drug-related toxicity signs, mortality, body and organ weights were recoreded during the experimental period. In addition, the selected hematological and biochemical parameters, and histological alterations were determined at the end of the subacute toxicity test. Germacrone, arturmerone, and curcumol were three sesquiterpene components found in the extract. CSE showed cytotoxic effects in different cancer cells, but had minimal effects on normal cells. Apoptosis in AGS cells was caused by CSE in a concentration-dependent pattern through increase of Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, and release of cytochrome c, which leads to activation of caspase-3/-7, caspase-9, as well as cleavage of PARP. In the acute toxicity test, no signs of toxicity and no mortality were recorded in rats at both doses of 1000 and 5000 mg/kg. In the subacute toxicity study, CSE showed no drug-related adverse effects on water and food consumption, body and organ weights. CSE at a dose of 1000 mg/kg slightly increased WBC and platelet values in female rats, while it increased WBC values in male rats in all tested doses. The decrease of total cholesterol and triglyceride levels were found in female rats treated CSE at doses of 250 or 500 mg/kg. In addition, the increase of serum ALT and AST levels in rats treated at the dose of 1000 mg/kg were noted. No significant changes in histopathological structures of kidneys, spleen, heart and lungs, except liver tissue with minor modifications was found. Our findings indicated that CSE exhibited in vitro anti-proliferative effects on AGS cells by mainly activating the caspase-dependent mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. CSE also showed in vivo toxicity signals at the dose of 1000 mg/kg with proven minor hepatic injuries, which should be avoided the high dose for prolonged use. Curcuma singularis rhizomes may be used as a chemotherapeutic agent for the treatment of gastric cancer with in vitro anti-cancer investigation and in vivo biological safety evaluation.

Natural products remain an invaluable resource for drug discovery and preventive healthcare, providing diverse chemical scaffolds with therapeutic potential. However, the full exploitation of natural product libraries is often hindered by fragmented data ecosystems, outdated annotations, and underutilization of modern computational tools. Recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and big data analytics have enabled the large-scale collection and systematic analysis of biological and clinical datasets. Despite this, natural product research has been slow to benefit from these capabilities—largely due to the lack of digitized resources, heterogeneous data formats, and obsolete terminologies. Fully harnessing these technologies requires careful preparation, including the standardization of unstructured data and semantic reorganization. 

This presentation will detail key strategies for preparing and structuring natural product data to maximize compatibility with AI-driven analysis. We devised a framework that systematically integrates heterogeneous biological data—ranging from molecular structures and bioactivity profiles to species-level annotations—into a comprehensive, machine-readable network. By leveraging graph-based analytics and optimized learning algorithms, we developed predictive models capable of inferring potential bioactivities, natural compound targets, and mechanistic hypotheses. Building on this, we constructed predictive models capable of inferring compound bioactivities, identifying likely targets, and proposing mechanistic hypotheses. We will also present our recent endeavors combining this network with LC-MS/MS–based metabolomic profiling to identify novel natural product sources. This integrative approach has led to the discovery of several promising candidates for further R&D.

We propose that coupling curated big data with knowledge-based AI can significantly accelerate lead identification and hypothesis generation in natural product science. When combined with high-throughput experimental validation, this strategy lays the foundation for a scalable, adaptive platform for next-generation natural product discovery.

A unique variety of medicinal and aromatic plants grow in Bangladesh. These plants generally owe for their virtues as medicinal agents due to certain characteristic secondary metabolites. Such bioactive compounds are of great medical importance. This work aimed to characterize phytochemicals from the aromatic and medicinal plants include Ocimum spp. (O. sanctum L., O. gratissimum L.), Cestrum nocturnum L. and Premna integrifolia L. These plants were selected because of their beneficial health effects and traditional usage in Ayurvedic and Hekimi treatments. Essential oils were isolated by hydro-distillation, and GC-MS was performed to determine compositions of essential oil and volatile organic compounds. The most abundant oil components from two Ocimum species were methyl eugenol, eugenol, caryophyllene oxide, β-elemene, caryophyllene, palmitic acid methyl ester, oleic acid methyl ester and linoleic acid methyl ester, but the percentages of most of the compounds in different species and different parts varied greatly. On the other hand, C. nocturnum essential oil contained higher percentage of phenylethyl alcohol, benzyl alcohol, eugenol, n-tetracosane and caryophyllene oxide. Phenolics compounds were determined by HPLC-TOF/MS, and major phenolics identified as eupatorin, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, diosmin, and apigenin in ethyl acetate extract of P. integrifolia. Hexane extract of P. integrifolia identified 9- octadecenoic acid, palmitic acid, phytol and stearic acid as main volatile organic compounds. The bioassay-guided fractions of chloroform leaf extract of O. sanctum afforded caryophyllene oxide, eugenol, p-methoxycinnamic acid ethyl ester, methyl eugenol, and cinnamic acid. Their structures were identified by chemical and spectral data analyses. The oils, extracts, and isolated compounds displayed a great potential of bioactivities (antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiproliferative and insecticidal activities). Our study explored these plants as a valuable source of bioactive compounds having therapeutic potential as antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antiproliferative agents against cancer cells.