For centuries, plants like māmaki and noni have been used to heal and restore. Now, a researcher at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa is using bioengineering to better understand how these plants produce their healing power and how to naturally boost those medicinal properties for the future.
Nan Jiang, an assistant professor in the Department of Molecular Biosciences and Bioengineering in the (CTAHR), is leading a first-ever study to map the genetic and chemical blueprints of some of 贬补飞补颈ʻ颈’蝉 most significant medicinal plants.
Bio-factories
His research focuses on the anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds found in noni, māmaki and moringa.
“We are looking at the ‘bio-factory’ inside the cells,” Jiang said. “If we can identify the limiting steps in how a plant produces an antioxidant, we can use natural breeding or environmental triggers to boost that production.”
To decode these complex processes, Jiang uses a new ally: Nicotiana benthamiana, a relative of tobacco, as a research tool. His lab tests specific enzymes from plants such as noni and moringa in Nicotiana plants, using them as natural incubators to see which genetic combinations yield the highest medicinal value.
The research has practical applications for 贬补飞补颈ʻ颈’蝉 economy. Many local entrepreneurs produce teas, powders and supplements using native plants, and Jiang’s research has the potential to increase the potency and quality of these health products.
Growing resilience
The project, which has been underway for more than a year, is an example of the mission of the CTAHR. By focusing on plants that are uniquely suited to the islands’ environment, Jiang is helping to build a more resilient future for both local agriculture and community health. This research is supported by the CTAHR CARES Initiative and the Mamoru and Aiko Takitani Foundation.
“Our greenhouse and lab work is designed to honor the plants that are native to this place and find ways to make their healing properties more accessible to everyone.”