Malaysia is one of the world’s 17 mega-diversity centres that is home to 10% of living organisms in the world, with an estimated 15,500 species of higher plants, 300 species of mammals and 189 species of amphibians.

We have identified new photosensitisers to make cancer treatment more effective
One of CARIF’s most groundbreaking projects is our work to identify new photosensitisers for Photodynamic Therapy (PDT). PDT is a relatively new cancer treatment that uses the combined effects of light and light-activated compounds (photosensitisers) to specifically target tumour cells for destruction. There are currently only four photosensitising drugs approved for clinical use, and there is significant interest in developing new ones that offer greater effectiveness and fewer side effects. In addition, we are identifying compounds that specifically kill cancer cells.
 

CARIF has developed our very own methodology for high throughput screening of extracts from various organisms (including higher plants, algae, soil microbes and fungi). Since 2004, we have screened more than 1,000 extracts and identified more than 100 active extracts. We are purifying and characterising these compounds, and will initiate cell-based and animal models to test these compounds.

And have successfully increased the network of collaborators who supply samples for screening. At present, we have nine active collaborators focusing on various organisms. To date, we have also signed Memorandums of Understandings with the Forestry Research Institute Malaysia, the Sarawak Biodiversity Centre, Nimura Genetic Services, Sime Darby Technology Center and additional MoUs are pending with Universiti Putra Malaysia, and Universiti Malaya.