Students of Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta (UNY) have once again achieved an accomplishment through innovative research under the Program Kreativitas Mahasiswa in the Exact Research field (PKM-RE). The research team successfully developed a topical powder formulation based on Nanostructured Lipid Carrier (NLC) containing asiaticoside derived from the gotu kola plant (Centella asiatica), as a treatment solution for diabetic ulcer (DU) wounds. Diabetic ulcers are a serious complication of diabetes mellitus, with a high risk of leading to amputation and death. This research was motivated by the increasing resistance to conventional antibiotics and the need for a topical formulation that is effective, stable, and capable of delivering active compounds optimally.

The research was led by A. Bunga Calista, with team members Muthiah Atiqoh, Susanti Agustina, Afifah Jihan K, and Bayu Ramadan. The team was supervised by Dr. Evy Yulianti, M.Sc., who contributed to strengthening the research methodology and validating the results. Over the course of four months, the study was conducted in laboratories at FMIPA UNY, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), and Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY), focusing on the effect of surfactant ratios on the physicochemical characteristics and biological activity of AS-NLC. Three surfactant ratios (Tween 80: Lecithin = 1:3, 1:1, and 3:1) were tested in vitro to determine the optimal formulation. The results showed that the 1:1 ratio produced the smallest particle size (264.8 nm), the highest entrapment efficiency (95.7%), and a pH level suitable for the skin of diabetic ulcer patients (5.6).

This formulation also demonstrated the highest anti-inflammatory, angiogenic, and antibacterial activities, including an inhibition effectiveness against MRSA bacteria of 52.18%, surpassing ciprofloxacin. The research outputs include a progress report, a scientific article, and educational content shared via the team’s official Instagram account. These findings have strong potential for further development into a national phytopharmaceutical product, supporting the downstreaming of health innovations and reducing amputation rates caused by diabetic ulcers. This research aligns with the 2025 PKM Dikti theme, “Public Health and Nutrition,” and supports the Asta Cita agenda in achieving independence in the pharmaceutical industry and advancing national innovation.