Thursday, January 29, 2026

4:00 pm-5:00 pm

Nature-Inspired, Traditionally Used, and Scientifically Investigated

The underlying mechanisms of brain cancer development are complex. Thus, despite advances in detection and treatment, most patients develop drug resistance and experience relapses. This study is the first to apply Raman microscopy to identify and characterize changes in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) cells treated with nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA), a chemical extract from the Larrea Tridentata plant native to El Paso. The scientific outcomes of this new research provide accurate insights into biochemical mechanisms at the molecular level. In addition to distinguishing bioanalytes relevant to disease states, when combined with multivariate statistical and/or machine learning algorithms, quantification of multiple molecular signatures is achievable in real-time. Since infusion and tea from the Larrea Tridentata plant have been traditionally used as a remedy for kidney stones, the first part of the talk focuses on the scientifically beneficial effects and mechanisms of action of the chemical extract. The overall findings of this research prove that fast, cost-effective, and accurate label-free biospecimen testing using Raman microscopy may support the development of tailored prophylactic and therapeutic strategies for personalized and preventive treatment.