Virtual Booth

Oil palm leaves represent an underexplored agricultural resource with potential as a source of naturally occurring bioactive compounds. OncoPalm investigates the biological potential of oil palm leaf ethanol extracts in colorectal cancer cell models, promoting sustainable resource utilisation and early-stage cancer research.

The study evaluates flavonoid content and chemical profiles using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Biological effects are assessed through cell viability, colony formation, wound-healing, and Transwell invasion assays. Western blot analysis is also being conducted to investigate potential molecular mechanisms underlying the observed cellular responses.

Preliminary findings indicate promising biological activities in selected oil palm leaf ethanol extracts, particularly in relation to colorectal cancer cell viability, migration, and colony formation. These findings support further investigation of their effects on cancer cell behaviour.

OncoPalm highlights the potential of transforming an underexplored agricultural resource into a source of bioactive compounds for scientific research. Although the project remains at the laboratory stage, it may contribute to future studies on plant-derived compounds and sustainable resource utilisation. Further research is needed to clarify molecular mechanisms, assess safety, and validate these preliminary findings before potential therapeutic applications can be considered.