Gracia Fe B. Yu, PH.D.

Dr. Gracia Fe B. Yu is a Professor at the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila. She obtained her PhD in Human Nutrition (Nutritional Biochemistry and Natural Products) from the University of the Philippines Los Baños in 2007.

Dr. Yu's research focuses on the phytochemicals, bioactivities, and nutrient composition of indigenous Philippine plant foods. She has conducted extensive studies on rattan shoots traditionally consumed by indigenous communities, examining their nutritional value and potential health benefits. Her PhD dissertation characterized the phytochemicals and nutrients in rattan limuran shoots eaten by the Aeta people in Bataan.

Dr. Yu is passionate about developing functional foods and nutraceuticals from Philippine medicinal plants. She has screened plants for anti-dengue, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and other bioactivities. Her research has led to patented mosquito repellent and anti-dengue formulations. She also develops health supplements for commercialization through the UP Manila Technology Transfer and Business Development Office.

An accomplished educator, Dr. Yu has served as lecturer and professor in biochemistry and nutrition at UP Diliman, UP Manila, and UP Los Baños. She is a leader in biochemistry education, having organized conferences and workshops on improving biochemistry teaching. Dr. Yu has received numerous awards, including the Quezon Medalya ng Karangalan, the Alfredo M. Yao National IP Award, and the Outstanding Alumnae Award from her high school.

With over 100 publications and 20 years of university teaching, Dr. Yu has made significant contributions to natural products research, biochemistry education, and public health in the Philippines. Her work highlights the potential of Philippine medicinal plants to address diseases and nutritional deficiencies.