06/06/2025
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ngô Xuân Lương Won Third Prize at Vietnam Science and Technology Innovation Awards 2024
Originating from the reality that Mía dò – a wild plant commonly found in the mountainous areas of Thanh Hoa province – has not been thoroughly explored for its medicinal value, the research team conducted comprehensive surveys and scientific investigations to identify and evaluate its pharmacological properties. The project identified two main species, Costus speciosus and Costus tonkinensis, and successfully extracted bioactive compounds, especially Costunolide – a substance proven to be highly effective in inhibiting PTP1B and α-Glucosidase enzymes, contributing to blood sugar regulation.
Based on advanced scientific analyses, the team developed an optimized extraction process for Costunolide with high yield, and conducted acute and sub-chronic toxicity evaluations, confirming the safety of the extract. Pharmacological experiments on animals demonstrated significant hypoglycemic effects, paving the way for developing supportive treatments for type 2 diabetes using local medicinal resources.
From 500 kg of Mía dò raw material, the team successfully produced 5 kg of extract – marking an important step toward commercializing the product. The project not only contributes to the creation of high-value medical products but also promotes the sustainable use of natural resources and provides potential livelihood solutions for ethnic communities in mountainous regions.
The recognition of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ngo Xuan Luong and his team at the 2024 Vietnam Science and Technology Innovation Awards highlights Hong Duc University’s ongoing commitment to scientific research, knowledge transfer, and practical application of research outcomes. On this occasion, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Luong was also honored with the Creative Labor Certificate awarded by the Vietnam General Confederation of Labor.
This achievement once again affirms the University’s pioneering role in scientific research closely linked with regional development. It also opens up sustainable pathways for the exploitation of biological resources to improve public health and contribute to the socio-economic development of Thanh Hoa province