USM Research Alternatives to Cure Cervical Cancer

(Source: www.thesundaily.my)

Spearheading the project is Dr. Nor Fazila Che Mat, from the School of Health and Science, who was granted RM 29,835 fund for her research. Fazila’s study will develop the effect of using Indian Trumpet Leaves (Oroxylum Indiumas) or locally known as “Beko” as a possible treatment for Cervical Cancer.

"Beko leaves are usually eaten raw as 'ulam' (salad) but the research that began in 2014 and the early tests done have shown positive results," Fazila said.

For two years, Fazila’s research will focus more on an effective and safer alternative to cure Human Papillomaviruses (HPV) type 16 which is the common cause of Cervical Cancer.

Meanwhile, her colleague from the School of Biological Sciences, Dr. K. Neethia Mohana studies the effectiveness of BH3 Mimetic drug in treating cancer cells.

Funded with RM30,000, Neethia’s research will focus on the difference of HPV type 16 and 18. These two strong infections cause 70% of Cervical Cancer having Type 16 as the more aggressive.

Like Fazila, Neethia claimed that her research will also last for two years.