This study determined the nutritional status of households in North western region of Cameroon using weighed food intake. Twenty–two rural and 106 urban households were randomly selected for weighed food intake Descr...This study determined the nutritional status of households in North western region of Cameroon using weighed food intake. Twenty–two rural and 106 urban households were randomly selected for weighed food intake Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze collected data and significance at p < 0.05 accepted. Corn fufu with huckleberry was the most frequently consumed meal with little or no animal-source protein. Protein and B group vitamins intake of respondents in both communities were below the FAO/WHO recommended values while energy, iron, and vitamins A and C were in excess for most age groups. Adolescents 10 - 19 years and adults 20 years and above failed to meet at least 85% of RNI for calcium.展开更多
In this study, the anti-lipidemic effects of combined extracts of Moringa oleifera and Peristrophe bicalyculata in allxoan-induced diabetic rats were investigated. Fifty four (54) adult male albino Wistar rats weighin...In this study, the anti-lipidemic effects of combined extracts of Moringa oleifera and Peristrophe bicalyculata in allxoan-induced diabetic rats were investigated. Fifty four (54) adult male albino Wistar rats weighing between 140-180 g were shared into 5 parallel groups consisting of diabetic (DC) and non-diabetic (NC) groups. Each group consisted of 6 rats. Groups 2-5 were made diabetic using alloxan (150 mg/kg b.w in distil H2O). Except for groups 1 and 2, animals were gavaged at doses of 500 mg/kg b.w for the single dose of extract and 250 mg/kg for the combine extract treatment. Insulin served as a standard drug and was administered at 5IU/kg b.w. The control animal groups (NC, DC) received 0.2 ml of normal saline (placebo) for fourteen (14) consecutive days. Groups treated with extracts showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC) levels, very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) and low density lipoprotein (LDL mg/dl) concentrations in all treated groups compared to the diabetic control group. No significant (p > 0.05) change was observed in HDL-C level in treated groups when compared to the normal control, diabetic control and insulin groups, suggesting a potential protection against cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) by these plants. No reduction in body weight was observed within the experimental period of 14 days. The results obtained in this study are in agreement with several other research results with these plants and claims by ethno-medical practitioners on the use of Moringa oleifera and Peristrophe bicalyculata in the treatment of hypertension and related CVDs.展开更多
Objective:To evaluate the antidiabetic and hypolipidemie activities of ethanolic leaf extract and Fraction of Melanthera scandens(M.scandens) in alloxan-induced diabetic rats.Methods:M.scandens leaf extract/fractions(...Objective:To evaluate the antidiabetic and hypolipidemie activities of ethanolic leaf extract and Fraction of Melanthera scandens(M.scandens) in alloxan-induced diabetic rats.Methods:M.scandens leaf extract/fractions(37-111 mg/kg) were administered to alloxan-induced diabetic rats for 14 days and blood glucose levels(BGL) of the diabetic rats were monitored at intervals of 7 hours for acute study and 14 days lor prolonged study.Lipid profiles of the treated diabetic rats were determined after the period of treatment.Results:Treatment of alloxan-induced diabetic rats with the extract/fractions caused a significant(P<0.001) reduction in lasting bloodglucose levels(BGL) ol the diabetic rats both in acute study and prolonged Irealnient(2weeks).The activities of the extract and fractions were more than that of the reference drug,glibenclamide.The extract/fractions exerted a significant reduction in the levels of serum total cholesterol,triglycerides,LDL and VLDL of extract with increases in HDL.levels of the diabetic rats.Conclusions:These results suggest that the leaf extract/fractions(AM.scandals possesses antidiabetic effect on alloxan induced diabetic rats and this justifies its use in ethno medicine and can be exploited in the management of diabetes.展开更多
Plants and plant products are continuously being explored in medicine against the increasing number of antibiotic resistant organisms. The antimicrobial activity of essential oil of some plants has been demonstrated a...Plants and plant products are continuously being explored in medicine against the increasing number of antibiotic resistant organisms. The antimicrobial activity of essential oil of some plants has been demonstrated against a range of organism. This study aimed to determine the chemical constituents and the antimicrobial effects of the oil of grape peels on some clinical isolates. The oil was obtained from the peels by hydrodistillation procedure and analyzed using Gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometer. The in-vitro antimicrobial property of the methanolic, ethanolic and tween 80 mixture of extract was determined by agar well diffusion method against selected clinical bacterial isolates (Bacillus cereus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, E. coli ATCC 25292, Klebsellia pneumonia, Pseudococcus sp., Salmonella typhmurium, Shigella flexneri, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococus aureus ATCC 29213) and fungal isolates (Aspergillus niger, Candida albican, and Penicillium chrysogenum). The GC-MS analyses of the oil indicated the amount of the essential oil components was highest with D-Limonene (75.05%), followed by β-myrene (7.25%), α-pinene (2.11%), caryophyllene (1.88%), octanal (1.68) and β-phellandrene (1.18%). Some of the minor components included δ-cadinene (0.89%), copaene (0.82%), methyl phthalate (0.54%), linalool (0.48%) and 3-carene (0.21%). The oil extracts exerted different degrees of inhibitory activity against the organisms. The inhibition of the test isolates was dependent on the dissolution solvent used. Methanolic oil mixture inhibited all bacteria and fungi. Ethanol oil mixture inhibited the test bacteria and C. albicans while, the oil extract dissolved in Tween 80 solution showed no inhibitory activity on the test fungi. This study has shown that grape peels from Nigeria contain some antibiotic principles which may be explored for use in the treatment of certain diseases.展开更多
Background: For a long time Africa was considered safe from diabetes. However, the International Diabetes Federation predicts an increase in diabetes from 240 million in 2007 to 380 million in 2025 with 80% of the dis...Background: For a long time Africa was considered safe from diabetes. However, the International Diabetes Federation predicts an increase in diabetes from 240 million in 2007 to 380 million in 2025 with 80% of the disease burden in low and middle-income countries including Africa. This study was carried out to assess the prevalence of diabetes mellitus among a group of Nigerian women who had earlier been found to have a high prevalence of overweight/obesity. Methods: 253 women attending the 2009 Meeting were recruited for the study. Blood glucose concentration was measured using ACCU-CHEK(R) Advantage glucometer by Roche Diagnostics and diabetes mellitus defined as fasting blood glucose concentration >7 mmol/L. Results: The population mean age was 53.04 ± 11.09 years, diabetics 55.76 ± 10.77 years, and non-diabetics 52.84 ± 11.11 years p = 0.709. 17 (6.7%) subjects had diabetes. Of the 17 diabetics 10 (3.95%) were known to have diabetes previously and 7 (2.76%) were diagnosed for the first time. 3 of the 17 diabetics were aged 50 years. 11 of the 17 (64.7%) diabetics had blood pressure > 140/ 90 mmHg while only 54 of the 236 (22%) non-diabetics had blood pressure >140/90 mmHg. The mean non fasting blood glucose concentration of the population was 5.83 ± 2.33 mmol/L, that of diabetics was 11.9 ± 5.27 mmol/L and non-diabetics 5.39 mmol/L ± 1.03, p < 0.000. Of the 10 previously diagnosed to have diabetes only 3 (30%) had fasting blood glucose concentration <7 mmol/L. Diabetes mellitus correlated with age, systolic blood pressure and age correlated with body mass, systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure. Conclusion: The study showed a high prevalence of diabetes with a significant proportion of undiagnosed diabetes and a poor level of control among diagnosed diabetics.展开更多
Objective:To investigate antidiabetic effects of Tetracarpidium conophorum seed(TECOSE)against biomarkers of diabetes-induced nephropathy in rats.Methods:Powdered seed(500 g)of TECOSE was extracted with 5 L of 100%met...Objective:To investigate antidiabetic effects of Tetracarpidium conophorum seed(TECOSE)against biomarkers of diabetes-induced nephropathy in rats.Methods:Powdered seed(500 g)of TECOSE was extracted with 5 L of 100%methanol for 72 h followed by concentration of filtrate.Diabetes was induced in rats with 75 mg/kg body weight intraperitoneal streptozotocin.The rats were randomly divided into five groups(n=5 in each group)namely group A-normal control,group B-diabetic control,groups C,D and E were diabetic rats treated with 500 mg/kg body weight TECOSE orally,7 mg/kg body weight metformin orally and subcutaneous 0.3 IU/kg body weight Humulin^R,respectively.All rats were treated once daily for 2 weeks.Blood samples and urine were collected for biochemical estimations.Kidney was harvested for histomorphological studies.Results:TECOSE(500 mg/kg body weight)significantly(P<0.05)reduced blood sugar levels as effective as metformin and insulin.The plant extract also significantly(P<0.05)reduced levels of serum urea,creatinine and uric acid,proteinuria,ketonuria,hematuria and glycosuria while it significantly(P<0.05)increased glomerular filtration rate.Histomorphological study of the kidney of untreated diabetic rats showed features suggestive of glomerulosclerosis and tubular necrosis while that of treatments with TECOSE extract,metformin and insulin showed near normal histoarchitectures.Conclusions:Streptozotocin at 75 mg/kg body weight induces diabetic nephropathy in rats and TECOSE possesses potentials to prevent diabetic renal damage.展开更多
Diarrhea is a prevalent gastrointestinal problem associated with fatal implications.It is a huge public health concern that requires better alternatives to current drugs.This study investigated the mechanisms involved...Diarrhea is a prevalent gastrointestinal problem associated with fatal implications.It is a huge public health concern that requires better alternatives to current drugs.This study investigated the mechanisms involved in the antidiarrheal activity of Anacardium occidentale(Ao) stem bark extract,a plant commonly used in the management of diarrhea in Nigeria.Methanolic stem bark extract of the plant was partitioned into three fractions:hexane fraction,ethyl acetate fraction(Ao EF) and methanol fraction.In vitro studies on the effect of these fractions on guinea pig ileum(GPI) strips,as well as the modulatory effect of Ao EF on standard agonists-and antagonists-induced GPI contraction and relaxation,revealed Ao EF as the most active fraction.In vivo studies to assess the effect of Ao EF on the dopaminergic,muscarinic,and serotonergic pathways were carried out using gastric emptying(GE) and gastrointestinal transit(GT) as experimental end points.Ao EF was subjected to GC-MS analysis,while the identified compounds were docked with the muscarinic acetylcholine receptor M3(CHRM3) using Autodock Vina.Results indicated that Ao EF inhibited GE and GT via inhibition of CHRM3.In addition,GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of 24 compounds in Ao EF,while docking indicated that octadecanoic acid 2-(2-hydroxylethoxy)ethyl ester exhibited the highest binding affinity to CHRM3.This study indicated that the antidiarrheal activity of Ao is through its antimotility effect via the inhibition of the muscarinic pathway.And since none of the identified compounds exhibited higher binding affinity to CHRM3 relative to loperamide,the antimotility activity of these phytoconstituents may be via synergism.展开更多
This study was aimed at comparing nutrient composition of some bird eggs in their raw and boiled forms. The different varieties were exotic chicken, local chicken, turkey, quail and guinea fowl eggs. The eggs were she...This study was aimed at comparing nutrient composition of some bird eggs in their raw and boiled forms. The different varieties were exotic chicken, local chicken, turkey, quail and guinea fowl eggs. The eggs were shelled and their contents (boiled and raw) lyophilized. Standard AOAC methods were used for determination of proximate, mineral and vitamin compositions. Results showed the boiled eggs having higher nutrient concentrations than the raw eggs across all species. Guinea fowl egg had significantly higher (p < 0.05) content of protein, fat and most micronutrients. The eggs were rich in microelements, with guinea fowl egg having the best sodium-potassium ratio (0.66). Turkey eggs had significantly (p < 0.05) higher iron content in the raw and boiled samples (7.2 ± 0.09 mg/100g and 9.6 mg/100g, respectively). This study showed some “less-popular”/underutilized eggs having certain nutrients in significantly greater quantities;hence exploiting these may greatly improve diet quality and nutritional status of consumers.展开更多
Resistance to currently available insecticides in the major malaria vectors like Anopheles coluzzii is seriously reducing the effectiveness of core vector control tools. Overexpression of ATP binding cassette transpor...Resistance to currently available insecticides in the major malaria vectors like Anopheles coluzzii is seriously reducing the effectiveness of core vector control tools. Overexpression of ATP binding cassette transporters (ABC transporters) has been implicated in insecticides resistance in the major malaria vector Anopheles funestus and An. gambiae. To identify the potential role of ABC transporters in pyrethroids resistance in this work, we use verapamil-a p-glycoprotein inhibitor in a synergist bioassay with pyrethroids on one An. coluzzii populations from northern Nigeria. Genomic DNA extraction and SINE 200 PCR established that the Anopheles s. l. from Auyo, Jigawa State was An. coluzzii. Pre-exposure to verapamil followed by Permethrin results in 0.12% knockdown after 1 hour exposure and 10.7% mortality after 24 hours, which was higher than that for permethrin alone, but not statistically significant. This bioassay result reveals that ABC transporters possibly do not contribute to the resistance.展开更多
The stem bark of Enantia chlorantha is commonly used for the treatment of malaria and other ailments of the human body such as cough and wound. The plant had been intensely studied for its antimicrobial activities and...The stem bark of Enantia chlorantha is commonly used for the treatment of malaria and other ailments of the human body such as cough and wound. The plant had been intensely studied for its antimicrobial activities and antipyretic properties. However, the efficacy and mechanisms of action of the plant remain unclear. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to determine the in vitro antioxidant activity of the various solvent extracts from stem bark of Enantia chlorantha. In vitro antioxidant activity of certain extracts of stem bark of Enantia chlorantha such as methanol extract (ME), n-hexane, chloroform, ethylacetate, and aqueous fractions (HF, CF, EF and AF respectively) was evaluated using models of DPPH radical scavenging activity, ferric reducing property (FRAP), nitric oxide scavenging activity, hydroxyl radical scavenging activity. The inhibition of lipid oxidation, total flavonoids and phenolic contents of the extracts were also determined using spectrophotometric methods. The result revealed the highest phenolic and flavonoid contents in the methanol extract followed by AF, EF and CF while HF contained the least concentration. Free radical scavenging potentials of the extracts were found to be proportional to their respective phenolic and flavonoid contents. Our results suggest that part of the mechanisms through which the plant is used in folk medicine for the treatment of stress related diseases such as malaria, and cough and wound may be through its antioxidant activity, DPPH, nitric oxide , hydroxyl radical scavenging abilities and reducing power.展开更多
Evaluation of some biomarkers of inflammation in male Albino Wistar rats following ingestion of Nigerian Bonny Light Crude Oil (NBLCO) and the effect of antioxidant supplementation was the focus of this study. Forty-e...Evaluation of some biomarkers of inflammation in male Albino Wistar rats following ingestion of Nigerian Bonny Light Crude Oil (NBLCO) and the effect of antioxidant supplementation was the focus of this study. Forty-eight adult male Albino Wistar rats weighing 150 - 180 g were randomly divided 8 per group into: group I (control) oral gavaged 3 ml/kg of normal saline;group II received 3 ml/kg of NBLCO;groups III, IV and V received in addition to 3 ml/kg of NBLCO 1 ml/kg vitamin C, vitamin E and 3 ml/kg of honey bee respectively;group VI received 3 ml/kg of honey. After 28 days of treatment, all animals were anaesthetized with chloroform and blood collected by cardiac puncture for analysis. Results showed that NBLCO administration significantly increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein while supplementation with antioxidant significantly reversed such effects (p < 0.05). NBLCO significantly reduced platelets and fibrinogen levels compared with the control group (p < 0.05). Interestingly, the vitamin supplementation significantly reduced platelets and fibrinogen levels compared to group II (NBLCO) (p < 0.05). Honey supplementation on the other hand significantly reduced platelets and fibrinogen compared to group II (NBLCO) (p < 0.05). From the results obtained it is concluded that ingestion of NBLCO has the potential to induce development and progression of inflammation but could substantially be mitigated by supplementation with antioxidant vitamins C, E and honey.展开更多
Objective: Synclisia scabrida is a medicinal plant used over the years for the treatment ofseveral medical conditions yet there is paucity of information on its systemic and organspecific toxicity. Consequently, sub-a...Objective: Synclisia scabrida is a medicinal plant used over the years for the treatment ofseveral medical conditions yet there is paucity of information on its systemic and organspecific toxicity. Consequently, sub-acute neurotoxicity of root extract of Synclisia scabridawas evaluated in albino Wistar rats. Methods: Thirty male albino rats with average weightof 140g were randomized into 5 groups consisting of 6 rats in each group. Group 1 was thecontrol while 50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg of the root extract wereadministered to Groups 2, 3, 4 and 5 respectively for 28 days. Malondialdehyde,glutathione, nitric oxide, protein, tumour necrosis factor-α, acetylcholine, catalase andacetylcholinesterase levels were measured in brain homogenates. Body weight of theanimals and histology of the hippocampus and cerebral cortex were evaluated. Results:Root extract of Synclisia scabrida was observed to increase malondialdehyde concentrationand decrease antioxidants biomarkers when compared with the control. Significantly(p<0.05) increased TNF-α concentration and acetylcholinesterase activity caused by theextract when compared with the control was observed. The concentration of acetylcholinesignificantly decreased in Synclisia scabrida treated groups in comparison with the control.The histomorphology of the hippocampus and cerebral cortex revealed pyknotic pyramidalneurons in Synclisia scabrida treated rat relative to the control with normal pyramidalneurons. The body weight of the extract treated groups were significantly decreased whencompared to the control Group. Conclusion: The study has demonstrated that the rootextract of Synclisia scabrida induces and up-regulates oxidative stress and inflammation inthe brain of male albino Wistar rat coupled with reduced acetylcholine concentration hencethe extract possesses neurotoxic potentials.展开更多
Intense pressure from both onshore and offshore oil exploration and exploitation activities, together with the accompanying urbanization and industrialization has resulted in massive contamination of land and water re...Intense pressure from both onshore and offshore oil exploration and exploitation activities, together with the accompanying urbanization and industrialization has resulted in massive contamination of land and water resources in Niger Delta, Nigeria. Whereas crayfish is very sensitive to contaminant in the aquatic environment and constitute an important part of human diet, its quality and safety from environmental pollutant is of serious health concern. Evaluation of dietary intake, potential carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risk of lead, cadmium, mercury and arsenic exposure via consumption of dried crayfish purchased from major markets in Calabar, Nigeria was carried out between June and August 2021. Thirty-six composite samples of dried crayfish purchased from 180 vendors were used for the study. Heavy metals concentrations were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (Model AA-6800, Japan) after wet digestion. Metals concentrations (Mg/kg) were of the ranges 0.02 - 0.24, 0.14 - 0.86, 0.32 - 0.72, 0.04 - 0.19 for Pb, Cd, Hg and As respectively. The mean content of cadmium and mercury exceeded FAO/ WHO and Commission of European Communities maximum levels for crustaceans. Average Estimated Daily Intake for each of the metals was found to be above the recommended daily intake level except for arsenic. The average estimated daily intake values for Cd and Hg were also above the tolerable upper intake level. Average Target Hazard Quotient of all the metals and Hazard Index of all the markets were below 1.00. The Incremental Lifetime Cancer Risk of the metals was greater than the standard tolerable regulatory risk (10<sup>-4</sup>) for carcinogens. Consumption of crayfish purchased from major markets in Calabar could pose a range of carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic human health risks.展开更多
Lead(Pb) and furan are toxic agents, and persistent exposure may impair human and animal reproductive function. We therefore explored the effects of Pb and furan on male rat hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal reproductive...Lead(Pb) and furan are toxic agents, and persistent exposure may impair human and animal reproductive function. We therefore explored the effects of Pb and furan on male rat hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal reproductive status, oxidative stress, inflammation, and genomic integrity. We found that co-exposure to Pb and furan reduced the activities of testicular function enzymes, endogenous antioxidant levels, total sulfhydryl group,and glutathione. Sperm abnormality, biomarkers of oxidative stress, inflammation, and p53 expression were increased in a dose-dependent manner by treatment with furan and Pb. Typical rat gonad histoarchitecture features were also damaged. Conclusively, co-exposure to Pb and furan induced male reproductive function derangement by decreasing the antioxidant defences in rats, increasing abnormalities in spermatozoa morphology, and reducing reproductive hormone in circulation. These pathophysiological alterations, if persistent, might provide a permissive environment for potentiating reproductive dysfunction and infertility.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:The present study is aimed at evaluating the protective effects of oils from Zingiber officinale(ginger) and Curcuma longa(turmeric) on acute ethanol-induced fatty liver in male Wistar rats.METHODS:Ferric re...OBJECTIVE:The present study is aimed at evaluating the protective effects of oils from Zingiber officinale(ginger) and Curcuma longa(turmeric) on acute ethanol-induced fatty liver in male Wistar rats.METHODS:Ferric reducing antioxidant power activity and oxygen radical absorbance capacity of the oils were evaluated ex vivo.Rats were pretreated for 28 d with standard drug(Livolin Forte) and oils from Z.officinale and C.longa before they were exposed to 45%ethanol(4.8 g/kg)to induce acute fatty liver.Histological changes were observed and the degree of protection was measured by using biochemical parameters such as alanine aminotransferase,aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase activities.Serum triglyceride(TG) level,total cholesterol(TC) level and the effects of both oils on reduced gluthatione(GSH),glutathione-Stransferase(GST),superoxide dismutase(SOD) and hepatic malondialdehyde(MDA) levels were estimated.RESULTS:Oils from Z.officinale and C.longa at a dose of 200 mg/kg showed hepatoprotection by decreasing the activities of serum enzymes,serum TG,serum TC and hepatic MDA,while they significantly restored the level of GSH as well as GST and SOD activities.Histological examination of rats tissues was related to the obtained results.CONCLUSION:From the results it may be concluded that oils from Z.officinale and C.longa(200 mg/kg) exhibited hepatoprotective activity in acute ethanol-induced fatty liver and Z.officinale oil was identified to have better effects than C.longa oil.展开更多
Manganese peroxidases (MnPs) are interesting enzymes in protein engineering, aimed at maximizing industrial bioprocesses such as lignin degradation and biofuel production. cDNA of the secreted short-type of MnP from P...Manganese peroxidases (MnPs) are interesting enzymes in protein engineering, aimed at maximizing industrial bioprocesses such as lignin degradation and biofuel production. cDNA of the secreted short-type of MnP from Phlebia radiata (Pr-MnP3) has been successfully engineered and amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Five mutant genes (E40H, E44H, E40H/E44H, D186H and D186N) of recombinant Phlebia radiata MnP3 (rPr-MnP3) were generated. The wild-type and the mutant genes were expressed in Escherichia coli (W3110 strain) and the resultant body proteins were lysed, purified and refolded into active enzymes. 6% - 7% recovery of pure and fully active rPr-MnP3 for wild-type and mutants were obtained and the availability of rPr-MnP3 enzymes will greatly facilitate its structure-function relationships studies. rPr-MnP3 mass was characterised using SDS-PAGE and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. Molecular weight of both the wild-type and mutant rPr-MnP3 enzymes was approximately 36 kDa. This describes the spectral characterization of the wild-type and mutant rPr-MnP3 enzymes with are very close similarities;substantially high spin haem enzymes. Therefore we report the engineering, cloning, expression, refolding/activation of MnP3 genes and preliminary characterization of the wild-type and mutant Phlebia radiata MnP3 enzymes.展开更多
Objective To investigate the effect of ethanolic and water extracts of the leaves of Gnetum africanum on the morphology of uterine smooth muscles of rats. Methods Three tolerated doses of the extracts, 10 mg/kg, 200 m...Objective To investigate the effect of ethanolic and water extracts of the leaves of Gnetum africanum on the morphology of uterine smooth muscles of rats. Methods Three tolerated doses of the extracts, 10 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg and 700 mg/kg per day, were obtained from the results of acute toxicity test and administered orally to three respective groups of female rats for 3 d and saline group of rats served as the negative control (0 mg/ml), 17β estradiol group of rats served as the positive group, 5 rats per group. Rats from each of the groups were sacrificed on the 4th day and their uteri were carefully isolated and examined. Results The study revealed that both extracts of the leaves of Gnetum africanum influenced the uterine muscle weight and growth of both adult and immature female rats in a similar manner as 17 β-estradiol. Conclusion The leaves of Gnetum africanum may be phytoestrogenic and could influence fetal implantation or ova fertilization, therefore, abuse in the use of the leaves of Gnetum africanum as vegetable in some Nigerian meal. Meanwhile this effect is reversible, the plant-extracts could be possibly developed as a female contraceptive to control birth rate.展开更多
Objective: Several pathologies arise from the inappropriate opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition(mPT) pore. In this regard, inhibition of mPT pore represents a cytoprotective approach to preserve mitoc...Objective: Several pathologies arise from the inappropriate opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition(mPT) pore. In this regard, inhibition of mPT pore represents a cytoprotective approach to preserve mitochondrial function for treatment of diseases characterized by excessive tissue wastage such as diabetes mellitus. The aim of this study, therefore, was to study the effects of fractions of Ficus mucoso, a medicinal plant used in the traditional treatment of diabetes, on mPT pore in normal and streptozotocin(STZ)-induced diabetic rat liver.Methods: Different solvent fractions of the crude methanol extract of F. mucoso were obtained by vacuum liquid chromatography and were tested on the mPT pore. Of all the fractions tested, methanol fraction of F. mucoso(MFFM) was the most potent and was used for in vivo studies. Diabetes mellitus was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of 60 mg/kg STZ, while treatment lasted for 14 d. In vivo, 30 male Wistar rats were divided into five groups: A, normo-glycemic control(distilled water);B, STZ(65 mg/kg;diabetic control);C, STZ + MFFM(25 mg/kg);D, STZ + MFFM(50 mg/kg);E, STZ + glibenclamide(5 mg/kg). The mPT, mitochondrial ATPase activity, lipid peroxidation and cytochrome c release were assessed spectrophotometrically while blood glucose levels were monitored using glucometer.Results: In vitro, the solvent fractions of F. mucoso, at all concentrations tested, had no effect on the mPT pore, in the absence of calcium, with no significant release of cytochrome c. Interestingly, calciumdependent pore opening was inhibited by all solvent fractions of F. mucoso, with the MFFM having the highest inhibitory effect of 83% at 3 mg/mL. Induction of opening of the mPT pore, significant(P < 0.001) enhancement of mitochondrial ATPase activity and elevated malondialdehyde(MDA) levels in STZ-induced diabetes were significantly(P < 0.001) reversed by MFFM and were comparable with the effects of glibenclamide, a standard antidiabetic drug. Also, treatment with MFFM at different doses significantly(P < 0.001) reduced high serum blood glucose compared to the diabetic control.Conclusion: F. mucoso could be useful in therapeutic management of diabetes mellitus given its ability to prevent excessive tissue wastage via inhibition of pore opening, and reduction in levels of MDA and serum blood glucose.展开更多
Objective:To assess the in vivo antimalarial potential of various solvent extracts and fractions of Trema orientalis.Methods:In this study,the animal model of antimalarial activity was employed using Plasmodium berghe...Objective:To assess the in vivo antimalarial potential of various solvent extracts and fractions of Trema orientalis.Methods:In this study,the animal model of antimalarial activity was employed using Plasmodium berghei-induced mice.The crude methanol extract was fractionated using vacuum liquid chromatography in the order of increasing polarity using dichloromethane,ethylacetate and methanol.Percentages of parasitemia and clearance were used as indices for antiplasmodial activities.The full blood count was also assayed while the gas chromatography-mass spectrometer analysis of the most potent fraction was carried out to detect the active compounds presenting in it.Results:Dichloromethane fraction had the least percentage of parasitemia[(0.19±0.07)%]and the highest percentage of clearance[(91.74±8.38)%]at the highest dose used(200 mg/kg body weight)after day 7 relative to the artemisinin control which cleared the parasite after day 3.The ethylacetate fraction showed the least percentage of clearance[(70.52±5.64)%]at the highest dose used(200 mg/kg body weight)after day 7.Conclusions:The results obtained showed that purification enhanced the antiplasmodial activity of Trema orientalis in Plasmodium berghei-induced malaria in mice.The antiplasmodial activity of the dichloromethane is a strong indication that the fraction,if purified further,may contain drug candidates for the treatment of malaria in the nearest future.展开更多
Background:Increasing number of people globally gives in to indiscriminate consumption of excess alcohol as a coping mechanism to relieve any form of physical or psychological stress.Previously,ethnomedicinal use of Z...Background:Increasing number of people globally gives in to indiscriminate consumption of excess alcohol as a coping mechanism to relieve any form of physical or psychological stress.Previously,ethnomedicinal use of Zingiber officinale Roscoe(Ginger)have been shown to exhibit broad range of pharmacological benefits but no data has reported the phytotherapeutic treatment of Zingiber officinale methanol extract(MEZO)on alcohol-use disorder(AUD)and post-traumatic stress disorder(PTSD)-induced oxidative and inflammatory stress relevant to disruption of kidney functions in animal model.Objective:To investigate the protective effect of MEZO on kidney-oxidative and inflammatory biomarkers in sub-chronic alcohol exacerbation of PTSD symptoms in mice.Methods:Male Swiss mice were administered 30%ethanol for two weeks and thereafter introduced to single pro-longed stress to induce AUD and PTSD respectively prior to post-treatment with MEZO and vitamin C.Markers of oxidative stress,inflammatory cytokines,kidney functions,HPA-axis signaling molecules,vasodilator substance,and histopathology of the kidney were evaluated.Results:Sub-chronic alcohol intoxication heightened PTSD-induced oxido-inflammatory stress,altered the kidney function indices and HPA-axis,and reduced nitric oxide production,which were ameliorated by the phytother-apeutic treatment with MEZO.Furthermore,severe degeneration and atrophy of renal tubules were observed.Meanwhile,MEZO interventions strongly abated all these effects.Conclusions:Herein,the study shows that phytotherapeutic treatment with MEZO prevents the damaging effects of co-exposure to sub-chronic alcohol intoxication and PTSD.展开更多
文摘This study determined the nutritional status of households in North western region of Cameroon using weighed food intake. Twenty–two rural and 106 urban households were randomly selected for weighed food intake Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze collected data and significance at p < 0.05 accepted. Corn fufu with huckleberry was the most frequently consumed meal with little or no animal-source protein. Protein and B group vitamins intake of respondents in both communities were below the FAO/WHO recommended values while energy, iron, and vitamins A and C were in excess for most age groups. Adolescents 10 - 19 years and adults 20 years and above failed to meet at least 85% of RNI for calcium.
文摘In this study, the anti-lipidemic effects of combined extracts of Moringa oleifera and Peristrophe bicalyculata in allxoan-induced diabetic rats were investigated. Fifty four (54) adult male albino Wistar rats weighing between 140-180 g were shared into 5 parallel groups consisting of diabetic (DC) and non-diabetic (NC) groups. Each group consisted of 6 rats. Groups 2-5 were made diabetic using alloxan (150 mg/kg b.w in distil H2O). Except for groups 1 and 2, animals were gavaged at doses of 500 mg/kg b.w for the single dose of extract and 250 mg/kg for the combine extract treatment. Insulin served as a standard drug and was administered at 5IU/kg b.w. The control animal groups (NC, DC) received 0.2 ml of normal saline (placebo) for fourteen (14) consecutive days. Groups treated with extracts showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC) levels, very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) and low density lipoprotein (LDL mg/dl) concentrations in all treated groups compared to the diabetic control group. No significant (p > 0.05) change was observed in HDL-C level in treated groups when compared to the normal control, diabetic control and insulin groups, suggesting a potential protection against cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) by these plants. No reduction in body weight was observed within the experimental period of 14 days. The results obtained in this study are in agreement with several other research results with these plants and claims by ethno-medical practitioners on the use of Moringa oleifera and Peristrophe bicalyculata in the treatment of hypertension and related CVDs.
文摘Objective:To evaluate the antidiabetic and hypolipidemie activities of ethanolic leaf extract and Fraction of Melanthera scandens(M.scandens) in alloxan-induced diabetic rats.Methods:M.scandens leaf extract/fractions(37-111 mg/kg) were administered to alloxan-induced diabetic rats for 14 days and blood glucose levels(BGL) of the diabetic rats were monitored at intervals of 7 hours for acute study and 14 days lor prolonged study.Lipid profiles of the treated diabetic rats were determined after the period of treatment.Results:Treatment of alloxan-induced diabetic rats with the extract/fractions caused a significant(P<0.001) reduction in lasting bloodglucose levels(BGL) ol the diabetic rats both in acute study and prolonged Irealnient(2weeks).The activities of the extract and fractions were more than that of the reference drug,glibenclamide.The extract/fractions exerted a significant reduction in the levels of serum total cholesterol,triglycerides,LDL and VLDL of extract with increases in HDL.levels of the diabetic rats.Conclusions:These results suggest that the leaf extract/fractions(AM.scandals possesses antidiabetic effect on alloxan induced diabetic rats and this justifies its use in ethno medicine and can be exploited in the management of diabetes.
文摘Plants and plant products are continuously being explored in medicine against the increasing number of antibiotic resistant organisms. The antimicrobial activity of essential oil of some plants has been demonstrated against a range of organism. This study aimed to determine the chemical constituents and the antimicrobial effects of the oil of grape peels on some clinical isolates. The oil was obtained from the peels by hydrodistillation procedure and analyzed using Gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometer. The in-vitro antimicrobial property of the methanolic, ethanolic and tween 80 mixture of extract was determined by agar well diffusion method against selected clinical bacterial isolates (Bacillus cereus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, E. coli ATCC 25292, Klebsellia pneumonia, Pseudococcus sp., Salmonella typhmurium, Shigella flexneri, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococus aureus ATCC 29213) and fungal isolates (Aspergillus niger, Candida albican, and Penicillium chrysogenum). The GC-MS analyses of the oil indicated the amount of the essential oil components was highest with D-Limonene (75.05%), followed by β-myrene (7.25%), α-pinene (2.11%), caryophyllene (1.88%), octanal (1.68) and β-phellandrene (1.18%). Some of the minor components included δ-cadinene (0.89%), copaene (0.82%), methyl phthalate (0.54%), linalool (0.48%) and 3-carene (0.21%). The oil extracts exerted different degrees of inhibitory activity against the organisms. The inhibition of the test isolates was dependent on the dissolution solvent used. Methanolic oil mixture inhibited all bacteria and fungi. Ethanol oil mixture inhibited the test bacteria and C. albicans while, the oil extract dissolved in Tween 80 solution showed no inhibitory activity on the test fungi. This study has shown that grape peels from Nigeria contain some antibiotic principles which may be explored for use in the treatment of certain diseases.
文摘Background: For a long time Africa was considered safe from diabetes. However, the International Diabetes Federation predicts an increase in diabetes from 240 million in 2007 to 380 million in 2025 with 80% of the disease burden in low and middle-income countries including Africa. This study was carried out to assess the prevalence of diabetes mellitus among a group of Nigerian women who had earlier been found to have a high prevalence of overweight/obesity. Methods: 253 women attending the 2009 Meeting were recruited for the study. Blood glucose concentration was measured using ACCU-CHEK(R) Advantage glucometer by Roche Diagnostics and diabetes mellitus defined as fasting blood glucose concentration >7 mmol/L. Results: The population mean age was 53.04 ± 11.09 years, diabetics 55.76 ± 10.77 years, and non-diabetics 52.84 ± 11.11 years p = 0.709. 17 (6.7%) subjects had diabetes. Of the 17 diabetics 10 (3.95%) were known to have diabetes previously and 7 (2.76%) were diagnosed for the first time. 3 of the 17 diabetics were aged 50 years. 11 of the 17 (64.7%) diabetics had blood pressure > 140/ 90 mmHg while only 54 of the 236 (22%) non-diabetics had blood pressure >140/90 mmHg. The mean non fasting blood glucose concentration of the population was 5.83 ± 2.33 mmol/L, that of diabetics was 11.9 ± 5.27 mmol/L and non-diabetics 5.39 mmol/L ± 1.03, p < 0.000. Of the 10 previously diagnosed to have diabetes only 3 (30%) had fasting blood glucose concentration <7 mmol/L. Diabetes mellitus correlated with age, systolic blood pressure and age correlated with body mass, systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure. Conclusion: The study showed a high prevalence of diabetes with a significant proportion of undiagnosed diabetes and a poor level of control among diagnosed diabetics.
基金supported by TETFUND Institutional Based Research(Grant No.UNIOSUN/TETFUND/14/0014)
文摘Objective:To investigate antidiabetic effects of Tetracarpidium conophorum seed(TECOSE)against biomarkers of diabetes-induced nephropathy in rats.Methods:Powdered seed(500 g)of TECOSE was extracted with 5 L of 100%methanol for 72 h followed by concentration of filtrate.Diabetes was induced in rats with 75 mg/kg body weight intraperitoneal streptozotocin.The rats were randomly divided into five groups(n=5 in each group)namely group A-normal control,group B-diabetic control,groups C,D and E were diabetic rats treated with 500 mg/kg body weight TECOSE orally,7 mg/kg body weight metformin orally and subcutaneous 0.3 IU/kg body weight Humulin^R,respectively.All rats were treated once daily for 2 weeks.Blood samples and urine were collected for biochemical estimations.Kidney was harvested for histomorphological studies.Results:TECOSE(500 mg/kg body weight)significantly(P<0.05)reduced blood sugar levels as effective as metformin and insulin.The plant extract also significantly(P<0.05)reduced levels of serum urea,creatinine and uric acid,proteinuria,ketonuria,hematuria and glycosuria while it significantly(P<0.05)increased glomerular filtration rate.Histomorphological study of the kidney of untreated diabetic rats showed features suggestive of glomerulosclerosis and tubular necrosis while that of treatments with TECOSE extract,metformin and insulin showed near normal histoarchitectures.Conclusions:Streptozotocin at 75 mg/kg body weight induces diabetic nephropathy in rats and TECOSE possesses potentials to prevent diabetic renal damage.
文摘Diarrhea is a prevalent gastrointestinal problem associated with fatal implications.It is a huge public health concern that requires better alternatives to current drugs.This study investigated the mechanisms involved in the antidiarrheal activity of Anacardium occidentale(Ao) stem bark extract,a plant commonly used in the management of diarrhea in Nigeria.Methanolic stem bark extract of the plant was partitioned into three fractions:hexane fraction,ethyl acetate fraction(Ao EF) and methanol fraction.In vitro studies on the effect of these fractions on guinea pig ileum(GPI) strips,as well as the modulatory effect of Ao EF on standard agonists-and antagonists-induced GPI contraction and relaxation,revealed Ao EF as the most active fraction.In vivo studies to assess the effect of Ao EF on the dopaminergic,muscarinic,and serotonergic pathways were carried out using gastric emptying(GE) and gastrointestinal transit(GT) as experimental end points.Ao EF was subjected to GC-MS analysis,while the identified compounds were docked with the muscarinic acetylcholine receptor M3(CHRM3) using Autodock Vina.Results indicated that Ao EF inhibited GE and GT via inhibition of CHRM3.In addition,GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of 24 compounds in Ao EF,while docking indicated that octadecanoic acid 2-(2-hydroxylethoxy)ethyl ester exhibited the highest binding affinity to CHRM3.This study indicated that the antidiarrheal activity of Ao is through its antimotility effect via the inhibition of the muscarinic pathway.And since none of the identified compounds exhibited higher binding affinity to CHRM3 relative to loperamide,the antimotility activity of these phytoconstituents may be via synergism.
文摘This study was aimed at comparing nutrient composition of some bird eggs in their raw and boiled forms. The different varieties were exotic chicken, local chicken, turkey, quail and guinea fowl eggs. The eggs were shelled and their contents (boiled and raw) lyophilized. Standard AOAC methods were used for determination of proximate, mineral and vitamin compositions. Results showed the boiled eggs having higher nutrient concentrations than the raw eggs across all species. Guinea fowl egg had significantly higher (p < 0.05) content of protein, fat and most micronutrients. The eggs were rich in microelements, with guinea fowl egg having the best sodium-potassium ratio (0.66). Turkey eggs had significantly (p < 0.05) higher iron content in the raw and boiled samples (7.2 ± 0.09 mg/100g and 9.6 mg/100g, respectively). This study showed some “less-popular”/underutilized eggs having certain nutrients in significantly greater quantities;hence exploiting these may greatly improve diet quality and nutritional status of consumers.
文摘Resistance to currently available insecticides in the major malaria vectors like Anopheles coluzzii is seriously reducing the effectiveness of core vector control tools. Overexpression of ATP binding cassette transporters (ABC transporters) has been implicated in insecticides resistance in the major malaria vector Anopheles funestus and An. gambiae. To identify the potential role of ABC transporters in pyrethroids resistance in this work, we use verapamil-a p-glycoprotein inhibitor in a synergist bioassay with pyrethroids on one An. coluzzii populations from northern Nigeria. Genomic DNA extraction and SINE 200 PCR established that the Anopheles s. l. from Auyo, Jigawa State was An. coluzzii. Pre-exposure to verapamil followed by Permethrin results in 0.12% knockdown after 1 hour exposure and 10.7% mortality after 24 hours, which was higher than that for permethrin alone, but not statistically significant. This bioassay result reveals that ABC transporters possibly do not contribute to the resistance.
文摘The stem bark of Enantia chlorantha is commonly used for the treatment of malaria and other ailments of the human body such as cough and wound. The plant had been intensely studied for its antimicrobial activities and antipyretic properties. However, the efficacy and mechanisms of action of the plant remain unclear. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to determine the in vitro antioxidant activity of the various solvent extracts from stem bark of Enantia chlorantha. In vitro antioxidant activity of certain extracts of stem bark of Enantia chlorantha such as methanol extract (ME), n-hexane, chloroform, ethylacetate, and aqueous fractions (HF, CF, EF and AF respectively) was evaluated using models of DPPH radical scavenging activity, ferric reducing property (FRAP), nitric oxide scavenging activity, hydroxyl radical scavenging activity. The inhibition of lipid oxidation, total flavonoids and phenolic contents of the extracts were also determined using spectrophotometric methods. The result revealed the highest phenolic and flavonoid contents in the methanol extract followed by AF, EF and CF while HF contained the least concentration. Free radical scavenging potentials of the extracts were found to be proportional to their respective phenolic and flavonoid contents. Our results suggest that part of the mechanisms through which the plant is used in folk medicine for the treatment of stress related diseases such as malaria, and cough and wound may be through its antioxidant activity, DPPH, nitric oxide , hydroxyl radical scavenging abilities and reducing power.
文摘Evaluation of some biomarkers of inflammation in male Albino Wistar rats following ingestion of Nigerian Bonny Light Crude Oil (NBLCO) and the effect of antioxidant supplementation was the focus of this study. Forty-eight adult male Albino Wistar rats weighing 150 - 180 g were randomly divided 8 per group into: group I (control) oral gavaged 3 ml/kg of normal saline;group II received 3 ml/kg of NBLCO;groups III, IV and V received in addition to 3 ml/kg of NBLCO 1 ml/kg vitamin C, vitamin E and 3 ml/kg of honey bee respectively;group VI received 3 ml/kg of honey. After 28 days of treatment, all animals were anaesthetized with chloroform and blood collected by cardiac puncture for analysis. Results showed that NBLCO administration significantly increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein while supplementation with antioxidant significantly reversed such effects (p < 0.05). NBLCO significantly reduced platelets and fibrinogen levels compared with the control group (p < 0.05). Interestingly, the vitamin supplementation significantly reduced platelets and fibrinogen levels compared to group II (NBLCO) (p < 0.05). Honey supplementation on the other hand significantly reduced platelets and fibrinogen compared to group II (NBLCO) (p < 0.05). From the results obtained it is concluded that ingestion of NBLCO has the potential to induce development and progression of inflammation but could substantially be mitigated by supplementation with antioxidant vitamins C, E and honey.
文摘Objective: Synclisia scabrida is a medicinal plant used over the years for the treatment ofseveral medical conditions yet there is paucity of information on its systemic and organspecific toxicity. Consequently, sub-acute neurotoxicity of root extract of Synclisia scabridawas evaluated in albino Wistar rats. Methods: Thirty male albino rats with average weightof 140g were randomized into 5 groups consisting of 6 rats in each group. Group 1 was thecontrol while 50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg of the root extract wereadministered to Groups 2, 3, 4 and 5 respectively for 28 days. Malondialdehyde,glutathione, nitric oxide, protein, tumour necrosis factor-α, acetylcholine, catalase andacetylcholinesterase levels were measured in brain homogenates. Body weight of theanimals and histology of the hippocampus and cerebral cortex were evaluated. Results:Root extract of Synclisia scabrida was observed to increase malondialdehyde concentrationand decrease antioxidants biomarkers when compared with the control. Significantly(p<0.05) increased TNF-α concentration and acetylcholinesterase activity caused by theextract when compared with the control was observed. The concentration of acetylcholinesignificantly decreased in Synclisia scabrida treated groups in comparison with the control.The histomorphology of the hippocampus and cerebral cortex revealed pyknotic pyramidalneurons in Synclisia scabrida treated rat relative to the control with normal pyramidalneurons. The body weight of the extract treated groups were significantly decreased whencompared to the control Group. Conclusion: The study has demonstrated that the rootextract of Synclisia scabrida induces and up-regulates oxidative stress and inflammation inthe brain of male albino Wistar rat coupled with reduced acetylcholine concentration hencethe extract possesses neurotoxic potentials.
文摘Intense pressure from both onshore and offshore oil exploration and exploitation activities, together with the accompanying urbanization and industrialization has resulted in massive contamination of land and water resources in Niger Delta, Nigeria. Whereas crayfish is very sensitive to contaminant in the aquatic environment and constitute an important part of human diet, its quality and safety from environmental pollutant is of serious health concern. Evaluation of dietary intake, potential carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risk of lead, cadmium, mercury and arsenic exposure via consumption of dried crayfish purchased from major markets in Calabar, Nigeria was carried out between June and August 2021. Thirty-six composite samples of dried crayfish purchased from 180 vendors were used for the study. Heavy metals concentrations were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (Model AA-6800, Japan) after wet digestion. Metals concentrations (Mg/kg) were of the ranges 0.02 - 0.24, 0.14 - 0.86, 0.32 - 0.72, 0.04 - 0.19 for Pb, Cd, Hg and As respectively. The mean content of cadmium and mercury exceeded FAO/ WHO and Commission of European Communities maximum levels for crustaceans. Average Estimated Daily Intake for each of the metals was found to be above the recommended daily intake level except for arsenic. The average estimated daily intake values for Cd and Hg were also above the tolerable upper intake level. Average Target Hazard Quotient of all the metals and Hazard Index of all the markets were below 1.00. The Incremental Lifetime Cancer Risk of the metals was greater than the standard tolerable regulatory risk (10<sup>-4</sup>) for carcinogens. Consumption of crayfish purchased from major markets in Calabar could pose a range of carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic human health risks.
文摘Lead(Pb) and furan are toxic agents, and persistent exposure may impair human and animal reproductive function. We therefore explored the effects of Pb and furan on male rat hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal reproductive status, oxidative stress, inflammation, and genomic integrity. We found that co-exposure to Pb and furan reduced the activities of testicular function enzymes, endogenous antioxidant levels, total sulfhydryl group,and glutathione. Sperm abnormality, biomarkers of oxidative stress, inflammation, and p53 expression were increased in a dose-dependent manner by treatment with furan and Pb. Typical rat gonad histoarchitecture features were also damaged. Conclusively, co-exposure to Pb and furan induced male reproductive function derangement by decreasing the antioxidant defences in rats, increasing abnormalities in spermatozoa morphology, and reducing reproductive hormone in circulation. These pathophysiological alterations, if persistent, might provide a permissive environment for potentiating reproductive dysfunction and infertility.
文摘OBJECTIVE:The present study is aimed at evaluating the protective effects of oils from Zingiber officinale(ginger) and Curcuma longa(turmeric) on acute ethanol-induced fatty liver in male Wistar rats.METHODS:Ferric reducing antioxidant power activity and oxygen radical absorbance capacity of the oils were evaluated ex vivo.Rats were pretreated for 28 d with standard drug(Livolin Forte) and oils from Z.officinale and C.longa before they were exposed to 45%ethanol(4.8 g/kg)to induce acute fatty liver.Histological changes were observed and the degree of protection was measured by using biochemical parameters such as alanine aminotransferase,aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase activities.Serum triglyceride(TG) level,total cholesterol(TC) level and the effects of both oils on reduced gluthatione(GSH),glutathione-Stransferase(GST),superoxide dismutase(SOD) and hepatic malondialdehyde(MDA) levels were estimated.RESULTS:Oils from Z.officinale and C.longa at a dose of 200 mg/kg showed hepatoprotection by decreasing the activities of serum enzymes,serum TG,serum TC and hepatic MDA,while they significantly restored the level of GSH as well as GST and SOD activities.Histological examination of rats tissues was related to the obtained results.CONCLUSION:From the results it may be concluded that oils from Z.officinale and C.longa(200 mg/kg) exhibited hepatoprotective activity in acute ethanol-induced fatty liver and Z.officinale oil was identified to have better effects than C.longa oil.
文摘Manganese peroxidases (MnPs) are interesting enzymes in protein engineering, aimed at maximizing industrial bioprocesses such as lignin degradation and biofuel production. cDNA of the secreted short-type of MnP from Phlebia radiata (Pr-MnP3) has been successfully engineered and amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Five mutant genes (E40H, E44H, E40H/E44H, D186H and D186N) of recombinant Phlebia radiata MnP3 (rPr-MnP3) were generated. The wild-type and the mutant genes were expressed in Escherichia coli (W3110 strain) and the resultant body proteins were lysed, purified and refolded into active enzymes. 6% - 7% recovery of pure and fully active rPr-MnP3 for wild-type and mutants were obtained and the availability of rPr-MnP3 enzymes will greatly facilitate its structure-function relationships studies. rPr-MnP3 mass was characterised using SDS-PAGE and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. Molecular weight of both the wild-type and mutant rPr-MnP3 enzymes was approximately 36 kDa. This describes the spectral characterization of the wild-type and mutant rPr-MnP3 enzymes with are very close similarities;substantially high spin haem enzymes. Therefore we report the engineering, cloning, expression, refolding/activation of MnP3 genes and preliminary characterization of the wild-type and mutant Phlebia radiata MnP3 enzymes.
文摘Objective To investigate the effect of ethanolic and water extracts of the leaves of Gnetum africanum on the morphology of uterine smooth muscles of rats. Methods Three tolerated doses of the extracts, 10 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg and 700 mg/kg per day, were obtained from the results of acute toxicity test and administered orally to three respective groups of female rats for 3 d and saline group of rats served as the negative control (0 mg/ml), 17β estradiol group of rats served as the positive group, 5 rats per group. Rats from each of the groups were sacrificed on the 4th day and their uteri were carefully isolated and examined. Results The study revealed that both extracts of the leaves of Gnetum africanum influenced the uterine muscle weight and growth of both adult and immature female rats in a similar manner as 17 β-estradiol. Conclusion The leaves of Gnetum africanum may be phytoestrogenic and could influence fetal implantation or ova fertilization, therefore, abuse in the use of the leaves of Gnetum africanum as vegetable in some Nigerian meal. Meanwhile this effect is reversible, the plant-extracts could be possibly developed as a female contraceptive to control birth rate.
文摘Objective: Several pathologies arise from the inappropriate opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition(mPT) pore. In this regard, inhibition of mPT pore represents a cytoprotective approach to preserve mitochondrial function for treatment of diseases characterized by excessive tissue wastage such as diabetes mellitus. The aim of this study, therefore, was to study the effects of fractions of Ficus mucoso, a medicinal plant used in the traditional treatment of diabetes, on mPT pore in normal and streptozotocin(STZ)-induced diabetic rat liver.Methods: Different solvent fractions of the crude methanol extract of F. mucoso were obtained by vacuum liquid chromatography and were tested on the mPT pore. Of all the fractions tested, methanol fraction of F. mucoso(MFFM) was the most potent and was used for in vivo studies. Diabetes mellitus was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of 60 mg/kg STZ, while treatment lasted for 14 d. In vivo, 30 male Wistar rats were divided into five groups: A, normo-glycemic control(distilled water);B, STZ(65 mg/kg;diabetic control);C, STZ + MFFM(25 mg/kg);D, STZ + MFFM(50 mg/kg);E, STZ + glibenclamide(5 mg/kg). The mPT, mitochondrial ATPase activity, lipid peroxidation and cytochrome c release were assessed spectrophotometrically while blood glucose levels were monitored using glucometer.Results: In vitro, the solvent fractions of F. mucoso, at all concentrations tested, had no effect on the mPT pore, in the absence of calcium, with no significant release of cytochrome c. Interestingly, calciumdependent pore opening was inhibited by all solvent fractions of F. mucoso, with the MFFM having the highest inhibitory effect of 83% at 3 mg/mL. Induction of opening of the mPT pore, significant(P < 0.001) enhancement of mitochondrial ATPase activity and elevated malondialdehyde(MDA) levels in STZ-induced diabetes were significantly(P < 0.001) reversed by MFFM and were comparable with the effects of glibenclamide, a standard antidiabetic drug. Also, treatment with MFFM at different doses significantly(P < 0.001) reduced high serum blood glucose compared to the diabetic control.Conclusion: F. mucoso could be useful in therapeutic management of diabetes mellitus given its ability to prevent excessive tissue wastage via inhibition of pore opening, and reduction in levels of MDA and serum blood glucose.
文摘Objective:To assess the in vivo antimalarial potential of various solvent extracts and fractions of Trema orientalis.Methods:In this study,the animal model of antimalarial activity was employed using Plasmodium berghei-induced mice.The crude methanol extract was fractionated using vacuum liquid chromatography in the order of increasing polarity using dichloromethane,ethylacetate and methanol.Percentages of parasitemia and clearance were used as indices for antiplasmodial activities.The full blood count was also assayed while the gas chromatography-mass spectrometer analysis of the most potent fraction was carried out to detect the active compounds presenting in it.Results:Dichloromethane fraction had the least percentage of parasitemia[(0.19±0.07)%]and the highest percentage of clearance[(91.74±8.38)%]at the highest dose used(200 mg/kg body weight)after day 7 relative to the artemisinin control which cleared the parasite after day 3.The ethylacetate fraction showed the least percentage of clearance[(70.52±5.64)%]at the highest dose used(200 mg/kg body weight)after day 7.Conclusions:The results obtained showed that purification enhanced the antiplasmodial activity of Trema orientalis in Plasmodium berghei-induced malaria in mice.The antiplasmodial activity of the dichloromethane is a strong indication that the fraction,if purified further,may contain drug candidates for the treatment of malaria in the nearest future.
文摘Background:Increasing number of people globally gives in to indiscriminate consumption of excess alcohol as a coping mechanism to relieve any form of physical or psychological stress.Previously,ethnomedicinal use of Zingiber officinale Roscoe(Ginger)have been shown to exhibit broad range of pharmacological benefits but no data has reported the phytotherapeutic treatment of Zingiber officinale methanol extract(MEZO)on alcohol-use disorder(AUD)and post-traumatic stress disorder(PTSD)-induced oxidative and inflammatory stress relevant to disruption of kidney functions in animal model.Objective:To investigate the protective effect of MEZO on kidney-oxidative and inflammatory biomarkers in sub-chronic alcohol exacerbation of PTSD symptoms in mice.Methods:Male Swiss mice were administered 30%ethanol for two weeks and thereafter introduced to single pro-longed stress to induce AUD and PTSD respectively prior to post-treatment with MEZO and vitamin C.Markers of oxidative stress,inflammatory cytokines,kidney functions,HPA-axis signaling molecules,vasodilator substance,and histopathology of the kidney were evaluated.Results:Sub-chronic alcohol intoxication heightened PTSD-induced oxido-inflammatory stress,altered the kidney function indices and HPA-axis,and reduced nitric oxide production,which were ameliorated by the phytother-apeutic treatment with MEZO.Furthermore,severe degeneration and atrophy of renal tubules were observed.Meanwhile,MEZO interventions strongly abated all these effects.Conclusions:Herein,the study shows that phytotherapeutic treatment with MEZO prevents the damaging effects of co-exposure to sub-chronic alcohol intoxication and PTSD.
