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On Monday, December 15, 2025, from 1.00 PM to 3.00 PM, the Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University (MUPY), organized a special lecture entitled “Distinct Functions of Cycloartenol-derived Sterols in Plants” by Professor Hubert Schaller, a distinguished expert from Institut de biologie moleculaire des plantes du CNRS, Strasbourg University, France. Held at Room 309 of Rajaratana Building, the event was attended by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sitaporn Youngkong, Deputy Dean for International Relations and Corporate Communication, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nantana Nuchtavorn, Assistant Dean for Research and Innovation, Asst. Prof. Dr. Somnuk Bunsupa, Assistant Dean for Research and Innovation, along with faculty members.

During the lecture, Professor Hubert Schaller presented an overview of sterol biosynthesis in plants, highlighting its unique characteristics compared with other organisms. Particular emphasis was placed on the conversion of 2,3-oxidosqualene to cycloartenol, a crucial step leading to the formation of cyclopropylsterols and a wide range of sterols essential for plant growth and development. In addition, Professor Hubert Schaller discussed research findings on abnormalities in specific enzymes involved in sterol biosynthesis, especially those related to the formation of 24-ethylsterols. Such abnormalities may result in developmental defects in plants and affect the biosynthesis of brassinosteroids—key plant hormones that regulate growth and reproduction.

Moreover, this activity also aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, by promoting lifelong learning and access to global knowledge; SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, by fostering equitable academic opportunities; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, by strengthening international academic collaboration to enhance the capacity of faculty members and students.