Introduction: The green chemistry route (microwave) was used to produce nanocomposite materials based on activated carbon (AC) and manganese (Mn) oxide nanostructures. XRD analysis revealed that amorphous and crystalline oxide structures were synthesized. Scanning electron microscopy studies revealed rodlike a-MnO2 for the pristine sample, while cubic Mn3O4 and irregularly shaped MnO2 structures anchored on the AC substrate, with the nanostructures being uniformly distributed on the AC. The electrochemical tests of the composites as electrodes showed that the amorphous AC-MnO2 had a speci?c capacitance of 180 F g1, nearly four times higher than that of the crystalline AC-Mn3O4 composite electrode (55 F g1). The coulombic ef?ciency for the AC-MnO2 cell was 98% after 5000 cycles, indicating only a small loss of capacitance. The green route technique and good electrochemical properties indicate that the amorphous AC-MnO2 nanocomposite could be a good material for high-capacity, low-cost, and environmentally friendly electrodes for electrochemical capacitors.
Introduction: In this study, porous activated carbons (AC) were synthesized by an environmentally friendly technique involving chemical activation and carbonization, with an in-depth experimental study carried out to understand the electrochemical behaviour in different aqueous electrolytes (KOH, LiCl, and Na2SO4). The electrochemical performance of the AC electrode was evaluated by different techniques such as cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge/discharge and impedance spectroscopy. The results obtained demonstrate that the AC materials in different electrolytes exhibit unique double layer properties. In particular, the AC electrode tested in 6 M KOH showed the best electrochemical performance in terms of specific capacitance and efficiency. A specific capacitance of 129 F g?1 was obtained at 0.5 A g?1 with a corresponding solution resistance of 0.66 ? in an operating voltage window of 0.8 V, with an efficiency of ?100% at different current densities.
Introduction: Meloidogyne incognita are serious pests of Abelmoschus esculentus cultivation in Nigeria. Generally control has relied on the use of synthetic nematicides, however excessive use of pesticides in controlling them has led to the development of resistance by the organism. Environmental persistence of metabolites has resulted in pollution of surface and underground water. There is need to develop safer pesticides from natural plant metabolites. Extracts of Anacardium occidentale bark were obtained by cold extraction using ethanol. Phytochemical screening was conducted and the unique chemical constituents were identified using Thin Layer and Column Chromatography methods. The results of the phytochemical analysis revealed phyto-constituents like phenols
Introduction: Africa is the second most populous continent and has perennial health challenges. Of the estimated 181 million school aged children in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), nearly half suffer from ascariasis, trichuriasis, or a combination of these infections. Coupled with these is the problem of tuberculosis (TB) caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection, which is a leading cause of death in the region. Compared to the effect of the human immunodeficiency virus on the development of TB, the effect of chronic helminth infections is a neglected area of research, yet helminth infections are as ubiquitous as they are varied and may potentially have profound effects upon host immunity, particularly as it relates to TB infection, diagnosis, and vaccination. Protection against active TB is known to require a clearly delineated T-helper type 1 (Th1) response, while helminths induce a strong opposing Th2 and immune-regulatory host response. This Review highlights the potential challenges of helminth–TB co-infection in Africa and the need for further research.
Introduction: Zoonotic transmission of mycobacteria between humans and other animal species is an important aspect of the epidemiology of tuberculosis (TB) in regions of the world where the burden of the disease in humans and other animals is high. This is particularly important in areas in which sociocultural factors increase the possibility for interspecies transmission of different mycobacteria. Carrying out a review of the published literature involving laboratory-confirmed TB cases (by culture) and/or biochemical and molecular identification, we described the presence of Mycobacterium bovis and M. tuberculosis infections in humans and animals from 1975 to 2014. Overall, 1693 isolates of M. tuberculosis complex and other mycobacteria were identified and reported, of which 1131 represented M. tuberculosis, 286 represented M. bovis, 71 represented M. africanum, and 205 represented other mycobacteria. Importantly, 1.3% (15/1131) of the M. tuberculosis isolates reported were identified in cattle, while 8.0% (23/286) of the M. bovis isolates reported were isolated from humans. We suggest that representative sampling of TB cases in both hosts, studied by molecular identification tools, will help significantly in deciphering ongoing transmission between animals and humans in both directions and will enhance TB control in Nigeria.
Introduction: The Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) comprises the species that causes tuberculosis (TB) which affects 10 million people every year. A robust classification of species, lineages, and sub-lineages is important to explore associations with drug resistance, epidemiological patterns or clinical outcomes. We present a rapid and easy-to-follow methodology to classify clinical TB samples into the main MTBC clades. Approaches are based on the identification of lineage and sub-lineage diagnostic SNP using a real-time PCR high resolution melting assay and classic Sanger sequencing from low-concentrated, low quality DNA. Thus, suitable for implementation in middle and low-income countries. Once we validated our molecular procedures, we characterized a total of 491 biological samples from human and cattle hosts, representing countries with different TB burden. Overall, we managed to genotype ~95% of all samples despite coming from unpurified and low-concentrated DNA. Our approach also allowed us to detect zoonotic cases in eight human samples from Nigeria. To conclude, the molecular techniques we have developed, are accurate, discriminative and reproducible. Furthermore, it costs less than other classic typing methods, resulting in an affordable alternative method in TB laboratories.
Introduction: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a public health problem in sub-Saharan Africa coupled with dearth of information about the disease among livestock workers at risk of infection. We determined the prevalence of pulmonary TB infection and risk factors associated with its occurrence among livestock workers in south-western Nigeria.
Introduction: Accurate and timely diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB) is key to effective treatment and management. This study was designed to compare the diagnostic performance of GeneXpert and Ziehl-Neelson (ZN) microscopy test using culture as the reference.
Introduction: The molecular biological techniques of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) are accurate and rapid diagnostic methods in the epidemiology of Mycobacterium species in humans and animals, especially in developing countries.In this study, positive cultures from suspected tuberculous lesions of slaughtered cattle from two abattoirs in north-central Nigeria were subjected to a two-step multiplex PCR technique, based on genus typing and genomic regions of difference (RD).Out of 50 suspected tuberculous lesions cultured, 40 isolates were obtained. Based on genus typing, 32 of the isolates were identified as Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTC), one as non-tuberculous Mycobacterium (NTM) and the remaining seven were unclassified. Using genomic RD multiplex PCR, all the 32 isolates initially identified as MTC were further characterized as M. bovis.Our findings show that 80% of positive cultures from suspected tuberculous lesions were identified as M. bovis; hence, re-confirming M. bovis as the main cause of bovine tuberculosis in Nigeria. These results give further credence to the use of PCR-based molecular techniques as excellent complementary epidemiological tools in the tracking of bovine tuberculosis, a zoonotic disease of major public health importance in Nigeria.
Introduction: Carbofuran based pesticides have gained wide usage in Nigeria recently. Consequently, animals and human populations are exposed to them in the environment. Information on in vivo toxicity of carbofuran in experimental models is scanty. The present study therefore examined the hepatotoxicity and clastogenic effects of carbofuran in rats. Male Wistar rats were exposed to carbofuran (p.o) at 0–5 mg/kg bw for 5 weeks. Carbofuran induced significant (p < 0.05) increase in the serum activity of gamma-glutamyltransferase when compared with the negative control, but not activity of serum alanine and aspartate aminotransferases. It also significantly (p < 0.05) induced micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes formation in the bone marrow as compared with the control. The level of induction is dose dependent in both cases. In addition, there was significant (p < 0.05) higher number of hepatic cells in the cell/mm2 assay for the group treated with carbofuran. Histopathological analysis of liver samples from the treated groups revealed lesions ranging from general congestion (portal, central venous and sinusoidal), mild periportal cellular infiltration, diffused sinusoidal congestion and hepatic necrosis to severe congestion. Findings from this study suggest that carbofuran has clastogenic and hepatotoxic effects in rats. It therefore may constitute an environmental health risks in individuals so exposed.
Introduction: Moringa oleifera is an important multipurpose tropical tree not yet fully investigated for its medicinal and therapeutic
properties which informed the objective for this research work. The M. oleifera n-hexane leaves extract yielded a
solid substance that was re-crystallized several times to obtain a relatively pure compound which was subsequently
derivatized. The FTIR data of the solid substance indicated that the substance is an aliphatic alcohol. Consequently, it
was derivatized to an ester, an aldehyde and a carboxylic acid.
Introduction: The cracked bark of Anacardium occidentale were dried under ambient conditions, chopped into bits and the
ethanolic extract of the cracked bark was obtained by cold extraction. Phytochemical screening was conducted to
identify the types of secondary metabolites present using standard procedures. The profiles of the chemical constituents
present were established using Thin Layer and Column Chromatography methods. Thus, pure chemical constituents
were isolated from the cracked bark of Anacardium occidentale. The isolated compounds were characterized using
FT-IR and their structures determined using data obtained from GC-MS spectrum.
Introduction: Meloidogyne incognita are serious pests of Abelmoschus esculentus cultivation in Nigeria. Generally control has relied on the use of synthetic nematicides, however excessive use of pesticides in controlling them has led to the development of resistance by the organism. Environmental persistence of metabolites has resulted in pollution of surface and underground water. There is need to develop safer pesticides from natural plant metabolites. Extracts of Anacardium occidentale bark were obtained by cold extraction using ethanol. Phytochemical screening was conducted and the unique chemical constituents were identified using Thin Layer and Column Chromatography methods. The results of the phytochemical analysis revealed phyto-constituents like phenols,
Introduction: A scalable production of high surface area nanoporous carbon material (?2994 m2 g?1) with good distribution of micro-, meso- and macro-pores was hydrothermally synthesized using both cheap polymers and graphene foam as carbon sources. The as synthesised material shows a unique interconnected porous graphitic structure. The electrochemical double-layer capacitor fabricated from this nanoporous carbon material exhibited a superior supercapacitive performance of 188 F g?1 at current density 0.5 A g?1. This corresponded to areal capacitance of 6.3 ?F cm?2 coupled with a high energy of 0.56 ?Wh cm?2 (16.71 Wh kg?1) and a power density of 13.39 ?W cm?2 (401 W kg?1) due to extended potential window of 1.6 V in KOH aqueous electrolyte. Moreover, no capacitance loss after 10,000 cycles was observed, owing to the unique structure and large surface area of the active material. The outstanding performance of this material as supercapacitor electrode shows that it has great potential for high performance energy-related applications.
Introduction: A microwave irradiation method has been used to prepare mixed nickel cobalt sulfide (NixCoyS4) nanosheets with different stoichiometric composition as electrodes for electrochemical capacitors. This study has been undertaken to determine the effect of synthesis time and concentration of nickel on the morphology and pseudocapacitance behavior of the NixCoyS4. It was observed that the time had an effect on the morphology of NixCoyS4, producing sheet-like (leaf-like) morphology which curls in flower-like shapes with increase in growth (synthesis) time. The effect of morphology on the electrochemical behavior was studied by cyclic voltammetry (CV), chronopotentiometry (CP) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) techniques in aqueous solutions. The sample with a concentration ratio of 2:1 of nickel and cobalt (NixCoyS4-3) shows higher faradaic performance when compared to other samples grown under similar conditions but with different ratios. The maximum specific capacitance values obtained for was 1110 F g?1 at a scan rate of 5 mV s?1 for this sample. The Coulombic efficiency of the sample was ?80% after 2000 galvanostatic charge-discharge cycles at a current density of 5 A g?1.
Introduction: Half-cell reactions and alkaline direct ethylene glycol and glycerol fuel cells (DEGFC and DGFC) have been studied on Pd-based ternary core–shell (FeCo@Fe@Pd) nanocatalyst using multi-walled carbon nanotubes bearing carboxylic (MWCNT-COOH) and sulfonic acid (MWCNT-SO3H) as supporting platforms. The core–shell–shell nature of this nanocatalyst, obtained via the “microwave-induced top-down nanostructuring and decoration”, was clearly proven from atomic resolution transmission electron microscopy (ARTEM). The functional groups of the MWCNTs show a huge impact on the physico-chemical properties of the FeCo@Fe@Pd nanocatalyst towards the electrocatalytic oxidation of EG and GLY in alkaline media. The FeCo@Fe@Pd on –COOH-treated MWCNTs showed the small particle size of ca. 7.4 nm, uniform loading of the catalyst on the support, large electrochemically-active surface area and enhanced electrocatalytic activity compared to the FeCo@Fe@Pd on –SO3H-bearing MWCNTs. As a preliminary test, FeCo@Fe@Pd/MWCNT-COOH was used for passive, air-breathing anion-exchange membrane based fuel cells (AEM-DEGFC and AEM-DGFC). The analysis of the exhaust products, established using NMR spectroscopy, revealed a high selectivity towards the complete oxidation of both EG and GLY under benign experimental conditions.
Introduction: Electrocatalytic oxidation of alcohols in alkaline solutions is critical for the development of direct alkaline alcohol fuel cells (DAAFCs). This work investigated alcohol oxidation reaction (AOR) at a novel palladium-based core-shell nano catalyst (FeCo@Fe@Pd/C) obtained by the microwave-induced top-down nanostructuring and decoration (MITNAD) synthetic strategy. The electrocatalytic properties of the FeCo@Fe@Pd/C towards the oxidation of ethanol (EtOH), ethylene glycol (EG) and glycerol (Gly) were explored, and compared with those of the Pd/C alone. FeCo@Fe@Pd/C exhibited a remarkable performance in all three alcohols but its best electrocatalytic activity was found in the oxidation of EG where the electrocatalytic rate constant (Kcat) was about 2 times faster than seen in Gly and ? 4 times faster than in EtOH. The excellent performance towards EG was further corroborated by the low resistance to charge transport. Detailed comparison with literature reports shows that the FeCo@Fe@Pd/C is a potentially viable nanocatalyst for use in DAAFC.
Introduction: We have fabricated a symmetric electrochemical capacitor with high energy and power densities based on a composite of graphene foam (GF) with ?80 wt% of manganese oxide (MnO2) deposited by hydrothermal synthesis. Raman spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction measurements showed the presence of nanocrystalline MnO2 on the GF, while scanning and transmission electron microscopies showed needle-like manganese oxide coated and anchored onto the surface of graphene. Electrochemical measurements of the composite electrode gave a specific capacitance of 240 Fg?1 at a current density of 0.1 Ag?1 for symmetric supercapacitors using a two-electrode configuration. A maximum energy density of 8.3 Whkg?1 was obtained, with power density of 20 kWkg?1 and no capacitance loss after 1000 cycles. GF is an excellent support for pseudo-capacitive oxide materials such as MnO2, and the composite electrode provided a high energy density due to a combination of double-layer and redox capacitance mechanisms.
Introduction: A facile method has been utilized to synthesize a hydrophobic form of nano-scaled iron (II) tetrasulfophthalocyanine (nanoFeTSPc), integrated with functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (fMWCNT-nanoFeTSPc). The nanocomposite was characterized by UV–visible spectra, EDX, FESEM, and TEM. The electrocatalytic properties of the film on a glassy carbon electrode were investigated using cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, chronoamperometry and square wave voltammetry. The fMWCNT-nanoFeTSPc modified electrode demonstrated higher catalytic performance in terms of electron transport and current response compared to the other electrodes studied towards dopamine (DA) detection giving a sensitivity of 0.314 ?A ?M?1 and a limit of detection of 9.86 × 10?8 mol L?1. A selective detection was realized in elimination of ascorbic acid response on the film of fMWCNT-nanoFeTSPc. The detection limit in the presence of a high concentration of ascorbic acid was 3.5 × 10?7 mol L?1.
Introduction: Palladium based nano-alloys are well known for their unique electrocatalytic properties. In this work, a palladium-decorated FeCo@Fe/C core–shell nanocatalyst has been prepared by a new method called microwave-induced top-down nanostructuring and decoration (MITNAD). This simple, yet efficient technique, resulted in the generation of sub-10 nm sized FeCo@Fe@Pd nanocatalysts (mainly 3–5 nm) from a micron-sized (0.21–1.5 ?m) FeCo@Fe/C. The electrocatalytic activities of the core–shell nanocatalysts were explored for methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in alkaline medium. A negative shift of 300 mV in the onset potential for MOR was observed, with a current thrice that of the Pd/C catalysts. A very low resistance to electron transfer (Rct) was observed while the ratio of forward-to-backward oxidation current (If/Ib) was doubled. The overpotential of ORR was significantly reduced with a positive shift of about 250 mV and twice the reduction current density was observed in comparison with Pd/C nanocatalysts with the same mass loading. The kinetic parameters (in terms of the Tafel slope (b) = ?59.7 mV dec?1 (Temkin isotherm) and high exchange current density (jo) = 1.26 × 10?2 mA cm?2) provide insights into the favorable electrocatalytic performance of the catalysts in ORR in alkaline media. Importantly, the core–shell nanocatalyst exhibited excellent resistance to possible methanol cross-over during ORR, which shows excellent promise for application in direct alkaline alcohol fuel cells (DAAFCs).
Introduction: We report a novel microwave-induced fast and efficient synthesis of sub-10 nm sized palladium-decorated FeCo@Fe core–shell nanoparticles (ca. 3–7 nm) from a large-sized FeCo@Fe (0.21–1.5 ?m) precursor, suggesting ‘top-down’ nanosizing. The high electrochemical surface area, tolerance to methanol during oxygen reduction reaction, and the excellent stability of FeCo@Fe@Pd in alkaline electrolytes indicate that this nanomaterial may find future applications in Pd-based catalysis and/or alkaline fuel cells.
Introduction: We report a novel microwave-induced fast and efficient synthesis of sub-10 nm sized palladium-decorated FeCo@Fe core–shell nanoparticles (ca. 3–7 nm) from a large-sized FeCo@Fe (0.21–1.5 ?m) precursor, suggesting ‘top-down’ nanosizing. The high electrochemical surface area, tolerance to methanol during oxygen reduction reaction, and the excellent stability of FeCo@Fe@Pd in alkaline electrolytes indicate that this nanomaterial may find future applications in Pd-based catalysis and/or alkaline fuel cells.
Introduction: Ethnopharmacological relevance
Inflammation processes are implicated in many degenerative diseases. Piper guineense, a West African spice belonging to the Piperaceae family has been reported to contain anti-inflammatory agents.
Introduction: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of ethyl acetate extract of Curcuma longa Linn on the plasma antioxidant status and haematological parameters in alcohol-induced toxicity in female wistar rats. Thirty female wistar rats were divided randomly into six
groups (n = 5). Group I (control) was given normal saline, Group II was administered with 20% ethanol only, Group III was given 100
mg/kg b.w of the extract + 5.22 ml per kg b.w of 20% ethanol, Group IV was given 200 mg/kg b.w of the extract + 5.22 ml per kg b.w
of 20% ethanol, Group V was given 400 mg/kg b.w of the extract + 5.22 ml per kg b.w. of 20% ethanol and Group VI was administered
with 350 mg/kg b.w of Curcuma longa extract orally for 14 days. Plasma antioxidants activities and haematological parameters were
evaluated using standard methods. Ethanol significantly (p < 0.05) decreased the levels of some of the blood parameters (RBC, HB,
WBC, HCT, PLT and PCT) when compared to the control. The pretreatment with Curcuma longa L. significantly (p < 0.05) increased
the levels of RBC, HB, WBC, HCT, LYMP, PLT and PCT) when compared to the group given only ethanol. Oral administration of Curcuma
longa L. significantly decreased the levels of GSH, GPx, MDA, SOD and CAT activities in the plasma as compared to the group administered ethanol only. In conclusion, these observations show that pretreatment with ethyl acetate extract of Curcuma longa Linn exerts
its protective effect on haematological parameters and decreases lipid peroxidation as well as improving plasma antioxidant status.
Introduction: Cnidoscolus aconitifolius (CA) is an edible perennial shrub with promising medicinal properties. We therefore investigated the ameliorative potentials of CA (400 mg/kg) by comparing with ascorbate (400 mg/kg) in dimethylnitrosamine (DMN)-induced clastogenicity and hepatotoxicity. Hepatotoxicity was assessed by determining the levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA), as well as activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), gamma glutamyltransferase (GGT), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione S-transferase (GST), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), while clastogenicity was assessed by scoring the number of bone marrow micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (mPCEs). Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrophotometry (GCMS) analysis of the CA extract revealed the presence of phenols, essential fatty acid, carotene, and silicon-rich compounds, and also possesses strong in vitro free radical scavenging potentials comparable to ascorbate. DMN-induced hepatic damage as marked by elevated levels of MDA and GSH, as well as activities of ALT, AST, GGT, and GST were significantly reduced by CA and ascorbate treatments, while the significant reductions in CAT, SOD, and GPx activities as a result of DMN administration were restored following treatments with CA and ascorbate. Also, significant increase in DMN-induced micronuclei formation was significantly reduced following CA and ascorbate treatments. Hepatocyte histopathology revealed severe diffuse centrilobular necrosis and bizarre mitotic figures, which were corrected by CA and ascorbate treatments. Overall, ascorbate demonstrates better effect in vitro, while in in vivo study, CA extracts demonstrates a comparable and better ameliorative effects than ascorbate in the parameters investigated. Therapeutic use of the plant may therefore be a promising focus.
Introduction: Eteng OE, Moses CA, Enobong J, Akamo AJ, Akinloye DI, Ugbaja RN, Akinloye OA. 2020. Protective effects of Curcuma longa rhizomes ethyl acetate extract against alcohol induced oxidative stress and nephrotoxicity in female Wistar rats. Biofarmasi J Nat Prod Biochem 21: 5-12. This study aimed to evaluate the protective effect of Curcuma longa Linn. (syn. Curcuma domestica Val.) rhizomes ethyl acetate extract (CLREAE) facing alcohol-induced oxidative stress and nephrotoxicity. Thirty female (30) Wistar rats were categorized randomly into six groups. Groups 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 were treated with normal saline; 20% ethanol; 100 mg of CLREAE + 20% ethanol; 200 mg of CLREAE + 20%; 350 mg of CLREAE + 20% ethanol and 350 mg of CLREAE respectively for 14 days. A significant (p<0.05) decrease in the SOD, CAT and GPx activities and GSH concentration of rat treated with only 20% ethanol were found when compared to the normal control group, whereas a significant (P<0.05) increase in the groups pretreated with different doses of the CLREAE were also found when compared to groups with only 20% ethanol treatment. Thus, comparing to the normal control group, treatment with the CLREAE fetched a significant (p<0.05) decrease in the renal biomarkers (creatinine and urea). Whilst, comparing to the groups with 20% methanol treatment, a significant (p<0.05) increase happened in the groups pretreated with different doses of the CLREAE. There was a significant (p<0.05) decrease on Kidney MDA level in rats pretreated with different doses of CLREAE compared with the normal control. It was shown in the results of the histology that there was a physiologic recovery in the kidney tissues as groups were treated with different doses of the CLREAE. Evidenced by reduced necrosis of tubular and glomerular epithelial, the signs of protection against toxicity were found on the rats. The study suggested that through in vivo free radical scavenging ability, the CLREAE has protective effects against alcohol-induced oxidative stress and nephrotoxicity in female Wistar rats.
Introduction: Chlorination is a common method used in domestic water treatment. However, there are concerns
about its safety. This study investigated the probable toxicological effects associated with prolonged oral
administration of sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), a domestic water disinfectant. Thirty-two male albino rats (180-220g)
were evenly segregated into four groups of eight rats each. Group 1 (control) were orally administered 100 µl
physiological saline, Group 2-4 were orally administered 50 µl, 100 µl and 150 µl/kg body weight of 1.0% NaOCl
respectively bi-daily for 12 weeks. This was followed by the assay for indices of oxidative stress, as well as hepatic
and renal dysfunctions. The results showed significant (p<0.05) dose dependent elevations in activities of catalase,
superoxide dismutase, xanthine oxidase and lactate dehydrogenase, and level of lipid peroxidation. Plasma activities
of aspartate and alanine transaminases as well as urea and creatinine concentrations were significantly increased
(p<0.05) suggesting liver and kidney compromise. The present study suggests that the use of NaOCl in treating water
domestically may present with subtle deleterious biochemical effects.
Introduction: Trichloromethane (TCM) serves as an ingredient in pesticide formulations and fire extinguishers. It is a reported hepato- and renal-toxin. We therefore investigated the chemo-preventive effect of diallyl disulfide (DADS) on TCM-induced hepatotoxicity. Twenty five rats, divided into five groups of five animals each were used. TCM at the dose of 200?mg/kg was orally administered, and concomitantly treated with DADS (50?mg/kg), 5 days per week for 3 weeks. Compared with control, there was a significant increase in hepatic expressions of nuclear factor kappa B (NFkB), TUNEL positive cells (apoptosis), and concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and nitric oxide (NO). Also, a significant decrease in expressions of p53, and activities of catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), as well as level of reduced glutathione (GSH) was recorded following TCM administration. Following treatment, DADS intervention significantly reduced the hepatic NFkB expressions, apoptotic positive cells as well as levels of MDA, H2O2, and NO, and also significantly increased the level of GSH, activities of CAT and GPx compared with TCM group, while its effect on expressions of p53 was insignificant. Hepato-protection by DADS against TCM-induced hepatotoxicity may therefore be via suppressions of NFkB activation, apoptosis, and oxidative stress in rats.
Introduction: Exposure to pesticides, especially cypermethrin (Cyp) which is one of the most widely used synthetic pyrethroids, has been associated with decline in semen quality and increased risk of male infertility. This study was targeted at investigating the possible ameliorative role of the methanolic extract of Jatropha gossypifolia (JG) leaves and alpha-lipoic acid against testicular/spermatozoal aberrations induced by cypermethrin exposure in rats. Eight groups of seven male wistar rats each were treated orally for 28 days: control, 20 mg/kg body weight (b.wt) of Cyp, Cyp+JG(50 mg/kg b.wt), Cyp+JG(100 mg/kg b.wt), Cyp+?-LA(50 mg/kg b.wt), JG(50 mg/kg b.wt), JG(100 mg/kg b.wt) and ?-LA(50 mg/kg b.wt). Results from this study showed that cypermethrin exposure significantly decreased the livability of spermatozoans (15.09%) and increased the percentage of spermatozoans with morphological aberrations (153.40%). The plasma fructose concentration was also significantly reduced (80.89%) by the administration of cypermethrin. The testicular antioxidant status was also significantly altered after cypermethrin exposure. In addition, there was a significant increase in the lipid profile (triglycerides, 96.46%; cholesterol, 64.99%; and phospholipids, 132.94%) of the testes after cypermethrin administration when compared to control. Co-administration with the doses of the methanolic leaf extract of the Jatropha gossypifolia significantly reversed these alterations. With further studies, Jatropha gossypifolia plant could be a possible remedy for the treatment of reproductive dysfunctions.
Introduction: Most rivers in Nigeria are polluted without conscious efforts to abate ensuant consequences. Thus, Clarias gariepinus, an aquatic commercial food from Ogun River, Nigeria, was studied to investigate the impact of pollution on antioxidants and proximate composition. During the rainy season, 50 C. gariepinus (average weight 426.53 ± 24.40g and length 37.73 ± 0.95cm) were site sampled, 10 from each of Ago-Odo, Ago-Ika, Oke-Sokori, and Quarry along Ogun River course. Ajegunle-Adao cultured pond, served as control. The parameters assayed for included: some heavy metals and physico-chemical properties of sampled water, antioxidants and proximate composition of the fish samples. Physicochemical parameters of river studied showed that temperature of all sites ranged from 26 to 29°C, pH: 6.9 to 7.8, dissolved oxygen: 9.5 to 21.6, biochemical oxygen demand: 3.60 to 14.10, and chemical oxygen demand: 60 to 650. Lead (Pb) concentration ranged from 4.0 to 17.0 ?g/L and cadmium (Cd): 0.0 to 6.0 ?g/L. Blood Pb, Cd, activities of: superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione-S-transferase, plasma xanthine oxidase, and lipid peroxidation level of fish samples from Ago-Ika were most significantly (p < 0.05) high, with significant (p < 0.05) lowest reduced glutathione concentration amongst the samples from polluted sites when compared to control fish. Proximate analysis showed that the fish samples from Ogun River had significantly (p < 0.05) lower protein, fat contents, and higher nitrogen-free extract while Ago-Ika, Oke-Sokori and Quarry sites had significantly (p < 0.05) lower moisture, ash and fibre contents when compared with control. It can be concluded that the impact of pollution induced oxidative stress and significantly diminished the nutritional value of C. gariepinus from Ogun River.
Introduction: This study evaluates the hepatoprotective effects of hydroethanolic extract of (defatted) Buchholzia coriacea seed (HEBCS) against lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced inflammatory liver injury in the rat.
Introduction: This investigation estimated the anti-oxidative potential of Aloe Barbadensis gel extracts in rats against alcohol-induced oxidative stress.
Introduction: Cypermethrin (Cyp), a synthetic pyrethroid developed for agricultural and public health applications, has become harmful to the environment and mammalian life owing to indiscriminate use.
Introduction: In this investigation eggshell (ES), a waste material was prepared as substitute in the place of the commonly used carbon black (CB). Three different samples of Natural rubber (NR) were prepared through chemical modification via deproteinization, depolymerization and epoxidation. Deproteinized Natural Rubber (DeNR) was produced by reaction with urea and sodium dodecylsulphate (SDS); Depolymerized Natural Rubber (DNR) was produced by depolymerization of natural rubber latex using nitrobenzene and Epoxidized Natural Rubber (ENR) was produced by reaction with performic acid. The NR, DeNR, DNR and ENR composites filled with carbon black and eggshell at three ratios of 100/0, 50/50 and 0/100 were prepared and labeled as mixes A to C. The physico-mechanical properties, swelling, and solubility parameters of solvents into the different vucanizates were studied. The values for the tensile strength, modulus @ 500, elongation, hardness and abrasion increased with the addition of the eggshell into the modified NR composites with values higher than the standard (NR with CB). However, the compression set of the NRCB vulcanizates was better than the vulcanizates of modified NR with the 100% eggshell. The vulcanizates with ES also showed less swelling rate in all the solvents used. Keywords: Deproteinize natural rubber, Depolymerized Natural rubber, Epoxidized natural rubber, Eggshell waste, Properties, swelling.
Introduction: Unhealthy dietary patterns are associated with metabolic changes and increased risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), but these associations have not been investigated in representative populations of university undergraduates in low-to-middle income countries (LMICs).
Introduction: The present study was designed to investigate aluminium phosphide (ALP)-induced testicular toxicity, including its effects on sperm parameters and histological alterations in Wistar rats, and the possible protective role of hesperidin (HSD). Oral administration of ALP at 1.15 mg/kg body weight (1/10 LD50) for 30 days resulted in a significant increase in testicular malondialdehyde, lipid hydroperoxides, and oxidized protein levels. These indicators of oxidative stress were accompanied by decreased activity of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase, followed by a drastic reduction in the non-enzymatic antioxidant indices of glutathione and total antioxidant capacity when compared to control. Furthermore, ALP treatment produced a marked reduction in sperm count, motility and viability while increasing abnormal sperm morphology and adverse histopathological changes in testis. Co-administration with HSD significantly ameliorated ALP-induced testicular damage by suppressing oxidative stress indices and enhancing antioxidant status while also improving the sperm parameters and histological alterations in ALP-treated rats. The results of the present study indicated that testicular toxic effects of ALP are due to oxidative imbalance and that HSD could be a potential therapeutic agent against ALP-induced testicular damage.
Introduction: Jatropha gossypifolia has been associated with diverse medicinal characteristics. This study was aimed at
investigating the hemato-protective ability of the methanolic extract of Jatropha gossypifolia leaf (JG) and alphalipoic acid (ALA) on cypermethrin-induced hematotoxicity; and to investigate the possible hematotoxic effect of
the plant extract on the rats. The animals were grouped into eight groups of seven rats each and were administered
as follows: Group I (control), corn oil; Group II, cypermethrin (CYP) (20mg/kg); Group III, CYP + (JG50mg/kg);
Group IV, CYP + JG100mg/kg; Group V, CYP + ALA50mg/kg; Group VI, JG50mg/kg; Group VII, JG100mg/kg;
and Group VIII, ALA50mg/kg. Data from this study showed that cypermethrin significantly (P<0.05) increased
the amount of the red blood cells (RBC), white blood cells (WBC), lymphocytes (LYMP) and significantly (P<0.05)
decreased the concentrations of the mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular haemoglobin
concentration (MCHC) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) when compared to control. It also caused a nonsignificant (P>0.05) increase in hematocrit (HCT), haemoglobin (HG), granulocytes (GRAN) and platelets when
compared to the control. Co-administration with the different doses of the methanolic extract of Jatropha
gossypifolia and ALA were able to reverse these alterations. Thus, we concluded that the methanolic extract of
Jatropha gossypifolia at the doses considered are safe and will elicit hemato-protective effect on cypermethrininduced hematotoxicity.
Introduction: Dyslipidemia is a common metabolic disorder especially in diabetes mellitus (DM). In this study, the ability of Sapium ellipticum (SE) leaf extract to restore lipid homeostasis in streptozotocin-induced diabetes was examined. DM was induced in experimental rats (Wistar strains) using single intraperitoneal dose (55?mg/kg body weight ) of streptozotocin (STZ). Treatment of diabetic rats with SE was oral (p.o), at doses of 400 and 800?mg?kg?1 BW, twice daily at 8?h interval for 21 days. Lipid parameters were analyzed in the serum of rats using test kits. SE caused a significant () reduction in STZ-induced hypercholesterolemia in a dose dependent pattern (13.7 and 17.89%). These effects were comparable to that provided by metformin (15.45%), a standard antidiabetic drug. Similar pattern was noted with serum triglycerides (TG) (10.63 and 19.06%) and LDL (31.47 and 25.97%). Adipose tissue TG level was improved to near normal. Besides, the cardiovascular risk predictors in terms of atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) and LDL/HDL ratio were lowered by 57.85 and 44.12%, respectively. However, the extract failed to significantly reverse the STZ-induced decline in serum HDL. Overall, with AIP value of 0.28 and LDL/HDL ratio of 0.91, SE demonstrated the potential to maintain lipid homeostasis in the diabetics.
Introduction: Due to their potential and medicinal
values, herbal medicine has employed the use of
plants for therapeutic purposes based on the
chemical compounds found in them. The major
components are organic compounds, with biological
activity, but none of them act efficiently and
effectively alone with crude fractions possessing a
better efficacy and exhibiting synergetic effects.
Jatropha gossypifolia has been traditionally used for
its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, hepatoprotective,
antimicrobial, antioxidant, strong wound healing
and hypoglycemic properties. This work was carried
out to determine the phytochemical and nutritional
status of Jatropha gossypifolia leaves powder. This
present work employed the use of High Performance
Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) to further
quantitatively elucidates the various sub-fractions of
the phytochemicals earlier reported by other
researchers. Results showed the presence of vitamins
B1 (6.29mg), B2 (10.96mg), B3 (3.65mg), B5
(4.99mg), B9 (4.03x10-1mg), C (172.38mg), A
(4.71x10-2mg), E (56.23mg) and K (26.50mg) in
100g of the plant material. Cobalt, Manganese, Zinc,
Lead, Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, Sodium,
Phosphorus, Selenium, flavonoids, tannins, phenolic
acids, sterols, carotenoids, alkaloids, saponins, and
glycosides are also present in different
concentrations. Proximate analysis showed that the
plant material contained nutrients such as crude fat
(6.36%), crude protein (14.80%), carbohydrate
(34.18%), Ash (9.38%), crude fiber (10.31%),
moisture content (24.97%) and had caloric value of
(253.16 kcal). These substances may be responsible
for the health related properties of the plant and the
traditional use in the south-western part of Nigeria.
Introduction: To examine the effects of Sapium ellipticum (SE) leaf extract on the hepatic activities of glucokinase and glucose-6-phosphatase in streptozotocin-induced diabetic Wistar rats.
Introduction: Lead toxicity resulting from occupational or environmental exposure has long been treated with chelating agents and/or antioxidants. The ameliorative effects of these chelators on the genotoxicity of lead and possible damage on the DNA are yet to be fully investigated. In this study, the efficacy of conventional chelators (namely; 2, 3-mesodimecarptosuccinic acid (DMSA), D-Penicillamine and Calcium disodium ethylene di amine tetra acetate (CaNa2EDTA) with vitamin C were compared in the tissues of experimental rats exposed to lead. Twenty four hours after the last treatment, animals were sacrificed under anaesthesia, the brain and the liver of the animals were then harvested, mopped dry and stored on ice. Quantitative DNA fragmentation was determined spectrophotometrically using the diphenylamine reaction. Result showed a 4-fold increase in the percentage damage observed in the brain of animals administered lead for 12 weeks, with a 2-fold increase observed in the liver over the control group. Treatment with Vitamin c and CaNa2EDTA for 5 days and 10 days significantly reduced the fragmentation percentage in the liver. While CaNa2EDTA seem to have no significant ameliorative effect in the brain tissue. Treatment with D-Penicillamine also showed significant ameliorative effect in both tissues. Ten days treatment with succimer however proved more effective than the 5 days treatment. The results of this experiment did suggest a gradual reversal in oxidative DNA damage following withdrawal from exposure and the most effective treatment observed with vitamin c in both tissues.
Introduction: Nitric oxide is a biological messenger molecule that plays important roles in controlling neurotransmitter release, neurodevelopment, memory function, and regulation of gene expression. In this study, the time course effects of varying dose of Cannabis extract on nitric oxide in the brain and plasma was investigated. Twenty four hours after the last treatment, animals were sacrificed under anaesthesia, the brain of the animals were harvested, mopped dry and stored on ice. Nitric oxide activity was assayed according to Griess reaction assay. In the plasma, the results shows that at 4 weeks, there was a significant increase (p < 0.05) in the concentration of nitric oxide in all doses with compared with control. 25 mg/kg dose has a higher concentration compared with 12.5 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg body weight dose. However, at 8 weeks, there was a decrease in concentration of nitric oxide in all the doses compared to 4 weeks, but when compared with the control group, only 12 mg/kg dose significantly decreased. In the brain however, 12.5 mg/kg dose shows no significant difference in NO concentration through the duration of exposure compared to the control group. However, 25 mg/Kg and 50 mg/Kg body weight dose of Cannabis significantly decrease NO concentration in the brain of rat. The results suggest that at high doses, NO is reduced in the brain and at low dose its increased. The decrease in NO concentration may affect the regulatory function of NO in the brain as nitric oxide affect serotonergic transmission which could explain the imopaired cognitive function in chronic Cannabis users.
Introduction: Diabetes mellitus continues to exist as one of the world’s commonest chronic diseases, and the incidence of diabetes is presumed to grow steadily. With the associated adverse side effects of some of the current drugs, the management of diabetes mellitus continues to pose serious challenge in the medical field. There is a need for more robust approach to the treatment and management of diabetes and plants with their anti-diabetic potentials are expected to play key roles in the discovery of new and more potent pharmaceuticals that can successfully treat diabetes. Costus afer, a reported anti-diabetic plant was investigated in the present study for its anti-diabetic properties against certain therapeutic target of diabetes. Phytochemical constituents of C. afer were obtained through GC-MS analysis. These phytochemicals were docked into the binding pocket of the therapeutic targets (glycogen phosphorylase, pancreatic alpha-amylase, dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPPIV), aldose reductase). The docking scores from Autodock vina were validated and the correlation coefficient (R2) graph of the docking scores of ChemBL’s 125 compounds, docked into the human aldose reductase binding pocket against their corresponding pIC50 values gives R2=0.86, while the correlation coefficient graph of the docking scores of 50 compounds from ChemBL, docked into Dipeptidyl peptidase IV binding pocket against their corresponding pIC50 values gives R2=0.92. In the present study, the phytochemical Citronellyl isobutyrate with a binding affinity of -9.1 kcal/mol has the best inhibitory effect on the aldose reductase receptor/enzyme. The drug likeness of Citronellyl isobutyrate being the lead compound was determined through the calculation of its molecular properties. Citronellyl isobutyrate is a promising therapeutic agent in the treatment of type II diabetes and its associated complications.
Introduction: There is a global increase in the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) with relative paucity of data on the burden of this syndrome in developing countries like Nigeria. This study evaluated the prevalence of MetS among apparently healthy subjects in Nigeria.
Introduction: Edible camphor (EC) is one of the ingredients in the preparation of local
infusion for the management and treatment of pile, back pain, and erectile dysfunction,
which are practices commonly in the south-western part of Nigeria. Conversely, 2 and 4
g/kg EC significantly increased the serum level of FT3 but was significantly reduced by 6
g/kg EC, and finally, EC administrations did not have any significant effect on serum PSA
Introduction: The growing burden of hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Nigeria and
related cardiovascular complications is becoming a public health concern. Cardiovascular risk
factors were evaluated in control subjects (n=150) and patients (n=470) [hypertensive nondiabetics (n=179), normotensive diabetics (n=132), hypertensive diabetics (n=159)]
attending at the Medical Out-Patient Clinic of the State Hospital, Abeokuta, Nigeria.
Cholesterol, triacylglycerols and phospholipids were determined spectrophotometrically in
plasma, erythrocytes and lipoproteins. The presence of either or both diseases resulted in
significant (p<0.05) perturbations in blood lipids of the male and female patients.
Dyslipidemia was characterised by increased concentrations of cholesterol and triacylglycerols
in plasma, erythrocytes, low density lipoprotein (LDL) and very low-density lipoprotein
(VLDL). The increase was more pronounced in hypertensive diabetics. High density
lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol values of the male and female patients were between 35% to
43% and 37% to 43% respectively lower than their control counterparts, while that of HDL
triacylglycerols was between 8% to 10% and 6% to 23% respectively lower than their control
counterparts. Plasma and erythrocyte phospholipid content increased significantly (p<0.05) in
all the patients when compared with their control counterparts except in the erythrocytes of the
normotensive diabetic male, where significant decrease was observed. Our findings suggest
that enhanced hypercholesterolemia, hypertriacylglycerolemia and hyperphospholipidemia in
plasma and erythrocytes may be responsible for increased cardiovascular complications in the
comorbidity since the combined dyslipidemia are more pronounced in comorbidity of
hypertension and T2DM than when either of the two conditions occurs in isolation.
Introduction: Increase in plasma free fatty acids (FFAs) concentrations may cause cellular damage via the induction of oxidative stress. The aim of this present study was to investigate FFAs and oxidative stress in hypertension co-morbidly occurring with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). Age and sex matched control subjects (n=150) and patients (n=470) [hypertensive nondiabetics (HND, n=179), normotensive diabetics (ND, n=132), hypertensive diabetics (HD, n=159)] presenting at the Medical Out-Patient Clinic of the State Hospital, Abeokuta, Nigeria were recruited. Fasting plasma glucose, creatinine, urea, FFAs, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were determined spectrophotometrically. The presence of either or both diseases resulted in significant increase (p<0.05) in the plasma FFAs and oxidative stress marker-TBARS in different compartments (plasma, erythrocytes andlipoproteins) for both male and female patients when compared with their control counterparts. The increase in FFAs was more marked in comorbidity female when compared with other female patients. There was significant (p<0.05) difference in gender FFAs concentrations. In both controls and patients, FFAs in plasma are significantly (p<0.05) higher in male when compared with their female counterparts. This research revealed biochemical variations in hypertension co-morbidly occurring with T2DMcharacterised by gender-related elevation in FFAs and enhanced oxidative stress. Plasma FFAs might be a good biomarker predicting the occurrence and development of hypertension and/or T2DM.
Introduction: 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is a pyrimidine analogue that is used as an anti-cancer drug but its therapeutic potential is limited by its hepatotoxicity. This study therefore, aimed at investigating the protective effect of crocin, a natural supplement, against 5-FU-induced liver injury. Male rats were administered with 5-FU (30 mg/kg b.wt i.p.) for 5 days. Two groups of animals were either orally treated 3 days prior to or 3 days after 5-FU administration with crocin (40 mg/kg bwt). Another group was concurrently treated with crocin along with 5-FU administration. Biochemical variables indicative of liver injury, oxidative stress and liver histopathological alterations were thereafter determined. 5-FU administration markedly increased oxidative stress and markers of hepatic injury. Pre-, concurrent and post-treatment with crocin significantly reduced MDA, AOPP and LOOH levels and increased total antioxidant capacity compared to the 5-FU alone group, with improvement in the activities of the antioxidant enzymes, SOD, CAT and PONase. Liver injury was markedly reversed when AST, ALT and ALP activities estimated in the three treatment groups were compared to 5-FU group, but the restoration was incomplete, compared to the control. These biochemical variables were supported by histopathological examinations. The results indicate that crocin supplementation can ameliorate 5-FU-induced oxidative stress and liver injury in rat.
Introduction: This study investigated the inhibitory effects of Sapium ellipticum (SE) (Hochst) Pax leaf extract on some carbohydrate metabolizing enzymes, pancreatic ?-amylase and intestinal ?-glucosidase activities in vitro. The inhibitory potential of SE extract was measured against Quercetin. SE extract in a dose dependent pattern significantly inhibited the activity of pancreatic ?-amylase by 67.2% at 10 mg/mL. This effect was comparable to that of quercetin which offered 82.6% ?-amylase inhibition. In terms of intestinal ?-glucosidase activity, the inhibitory effect of the extract was significantly lower than that of quercetin at all investigated concentrations. At 10 mg mL?1 (maximum tested concentration), SE extract exhibited 35.8% inhibitory activity on ?-intestinal glucosidase compared to the 74.3% exhibited by Quercetin at the same concentration. Phytochemical analysis results showed that SE contained 74 ± 3.12 milligram Gallic acid equivalents of total phenols and 67.2 ± 2.04 milligram Quercetin equivalents of flavonoids per gram of extract. Fourier Transformed Infra red spectroscopy (FT-IR) of SE extract revealed the presence of active functional groups reminiscence of polyphenols. Alpha amylase and ?-glucosidase activities (in vivo) greatly contribute to postprandial hyperglycemia which is a great risk factor for type 2 diabetes mellitus. The inhibitory potential of SE extract on these enzymes as observed in this study suggests a positive and probable role of the extract in the management and treatment of diabetes mellitus, particularly, type 2.
Introduction: Arsenic poisoning is a major environmental event affecting millions worldwide and its treatment with chelating agents has
met with limited success. While arsenic toxicity affects multiple systems in the human body, its mode of action has not
been fully elucidated. The present study therefore, investigated the possible protective effects of catechin against
hepatorenal damage and dyslipidemia induced by arsenic exposure. Rats were exposed to arsenic (100 ppm) through their
drinking water and were treated with catechin (40 mg/kg and 80 mg/kg, body weight) for 30 days. Arsenic exposure
resulted in liver dysfunction obvious with increased activities of the hepatic enzymes alanine aminotransferase (ALT),
alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). This was accompanied with significant elevation of
kidney function markers urea and creatinine (p < 0.05). Furthermore, arsenic caused the distortion of lipid metabolism
resulting in hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia and increased plasma phospholipid in the animals. Co-treatment
with catechin effectively protected against arsenic-mediated hepatotoxicity, prevented renal damage and restored lipid
homeostasis in the rats. The present data indicate the ability of catechin to potentially prevent arsenic-induced nephrohepatotoxicity and dyslipidemia in rats
Introduction: Arsenic and di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) are environmentally ubiquitous and epidemiologically important toxic agents that millions of people are currently exposed to, worldwide. Although the adverse impact due to exposure to either arsenic or DEHP are documented, the toxicological effects of co-exposure to these agents are largely unknown. In this study, exposure to these chemicals was investigated for their effects on ATPase activities in the brain, liver and kidney of rats. Male Wistar rats were exposed daily to 100 mg L-1 arsenic via drinking water and to 100 mg DEHP kg-1 body weight in corn oil either individually or concurrently for 30 days. Toxicity was assessed by evaluating changes in body and organ weights, as well as, Na+/K+-, Ca2+-, Mg2+- and total ATPase activities in the brain, liver and kidney. Exposure to either arsenic or DEHP resulted in drastic reduction in activities of the enzymes in the compartments investigated, except in the brain where Na+/K+- and Mg2+- ATPases had their activities significantly increased. Also, DEHP displayed no effect on the total ATPase and Ca2+ ATPase in the kidney and brain, respectively. Interestingly, co-exposure to these toxicants significantly stimulated the activities of all these enzymes in the brain. In this compartment, combined treatment resulted in an additive interaction between the toxicants and a potentiation effect of arsenic on DEHP with regards to the Na+/K+- ATPase activity and Ca2+- ATPase activity, respectively. Our findings demonstrate tissue specific response to combined arsenic and DEHP exposure in rats with the effect on the brain significantly different from other compartments.
Introduction: This study investigated the inhibitory effects of Sapium ellipticum (SE) (Hochst) Pax leaf extract on some carbohydrate metabolizing enzymes, pancreatic ?-amylase and intestinal ?-glucosidase activities in vitro. The inhibitory potential of SE extract was measured against Quercetin. SE extract in a dose dependent pattern significantly inhibited the activity of pancreatic ?-amylase by 67.2% at 10 mg/mL. This effect was comparable to that of quercetin which offered 82.6% ?-amylase inhibition. In terms of intestinal ?-glucosidase activity, the inhibitory effect of the extract was significantly lower than that of quercetin at all investigated concentrations. At 10 mg mL?1 (maximum tested concentration), SE extract exhibited 35.8% inhibitory activity on ?-intestinal glucosidase compared to the 74.3% exhibited by Quercetin at the same concentration. Phytochemical analysis results showed that SE contained 74 ± 3.12 milligram Gallic acid equivalents of total phenols and 67.2 ± 2.04 milligram Quercetin equivalents of flavonoids per gram of extract. Fourier Transformed Infra red spectroscopy (FT-IR) of SE extract revealed the presence of active functional groups reminiscence of polyphenols. Alpha amylase and ?-glucosidase activities (in vivo) greatly contribute to postprandial hyperglycemia which is a great risk factor for type 2 diabetes mellitus. The inhibitory potential of SE extract on these enzymes as observed in this study suggests a positive and probable role of the extract in the management and treatment of diabetes mellitus, particularly, type 2.
Introduction: Arsenic poisoning is a major environmental event affecting millions worldwide and its treatment with chelating agents has
met with limited success. While arsenic toxicity affects multiple systems in the human body, its mode of action has not
been fully elucidated. The present study therefore, investigated the possible protective effects of catechin against
hepatorenal damage and dyslipidemia induced by arsenic exposure. Rats were exposed to arsenic (100 ppm) through their
drinking water and were treated with catechin (40 mg/kg and 80 mg/kg, body weight) for 30 days. Arsenic exposure
resulted in liver dysfunction obvious with increased activities of the hepatic enzymes alanine aminotransferase (ALT),
alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). This was accompanied with significant elevation of
kidney function markers urea and creatinine (p < 0.05). Furthermore, arsenic caused the distortion of lipid metabolism
resulting in hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia and increased plasma phospholipid in the animals. Co-treatment
with catechin effectively protected against arsenic-mediated hepatotoxicity, prevented renal damage and restored lipid
homeostasis in the rats. The present data indicate the ability of catechin to potentially prevent arsenic-induced nephrohepatotoxicity and dyslipidemia in rats.
Introduction: Arsenic and di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) are environmentally ubiquitous and epidemiologically important toxic agents that millions of people are currently exposed to, worldwide. Although the adverse impact due to exposure to either arsenic or DEHP are documented, the toxicological effects of co-exposure to these agents are largely unknown. In this study, exposure to these chemicals was investigated for their effects on ATPase activities in the brain, liver and kidney of rats. Male Wistar rats were exposed daily to 100 mg L-1 arsenic via drinking water and to 100 mg DEHP kg-1 body weight in corn oil either individually or concurrently for 30 days. Toxicity was assessed by evaluating changes in body and organ weights, as well as, Na+/K+-, Ca2+-, Mg2+- and total ATPase activities in the brain, liver and kidney. Exposure to either arsenic or DEHP resulted in drastic reduction in activities of the enzymes in the compartments investigated, except in the brain where Na+/K+- and Mg2+- ATPases had their activities significantly increased. Also, DEHP displayed no effect on the total ATPase and Ca2+ ATPase in the kidney and brain, respectively. Interestingly, co-exposure to these toxicants significantly stimulated the activities of all these enzymes in the brain. In this compartment, combined treatment resulted in an additive interaction between the toxicants and a potentiation effect of arsenic on DEHP with regards to the Na+/K+- ATPase activity and Ca2+- ATPase activity, respectively. Our findings demonstrate tissue specific response to combined arsenic and DEHP exposure in rats with the effect on the brain significantly different from other compartments.
Introduction: Diabetes is characterized by hyperglycaemia with alterations of lipid parameters. The effects of Aloe vera (A.V) gel extract on lipid profiles of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats were investigated. Seventy-two male albino rats were randomly divided into six groups of 12 rats each; control, diabetic control, 4 ml/kg and 8 ml/kg body weight (b.w.) A.V, 10 mg/kg b.w. glibenclimide and non-diabetic 8 ml/kg b.w. A.V groups. They were treated for 14 and 28 days. The plasma and HDL lipid profiles (triacylglycerols, cholesterol and phospholipids) of the diabetic rats were significantly (p<0.05) increased, while those of the VLDL+LDL, RBC, RBC membrane and organs were observed to be significantly (p<0.05) reduced, when compared to the control after 14 and 28 days of treatment. A.V gel extract significantly (p<0.05) ameliorated the disruptions observed in the lipid profiles of the diabetic and thus provide a scientific rationale for the use of Aloe vera as a therapeutic agent.
Introduction: Strophanthus hispidus is a multipurpose medicinal plant which has been reported to have diverse medicinal uses in the treatment of sexual diseases, malaria, dysentery, stroke, heart failure, gonorrhea, arthritis, diabetes, snake bites, constipation, inflammatory, rheumatism and ulcers. This study investigated the hypoglycemic and antioxidant effects of Strophanthus hispidus aqueous root extract, using the activities of superoxide dismutase, total peroxidases, gamma glutamyl transferase, glutathione - S- transferase , glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, as well as the concentrations of glucose, glutathione, vitamin C, nitric oxide, total thiols and malondialdehyde as indices. Forty rats were divided into five (A, B, C, D and E) Groups. Group A served as control, Group B were streptozotocin – induced diabetes mellitus untreated rats, Group C were streptozotocin – induced diabetes mellitus rats treated with 600µg/ kg body weight of glibenclamide, Group D and E were streptozotocin – induced diabetes mellitus rats treated with 500mg/kg and 1000mg/kg body weight of the extract respectively for fourteen consecutive days. The concentrations of blood glucose, nitric oxide and malondialdehyde were significantly (p< 0.05) decreased in all the Groups that received the different doses of extract as compared with the negative control Group (Group B). In conclusion, Strophanthus hispidus aqueous root extract exhibited hypoglycemic and antioxidant functions.
Introduction: To investigate the effects of aluminum chloride (AlCl3) in the deviation of tissue lipid profiles and ways to reduce its effect using antioxidant vitamins C and E, thirty-six male albino rats (120-150g) were divided into six groups with six rats each. Group (1) received normal saline and served as control, Group (2) was administered with AlCl3 (20mg/kg body weight b.wt)), Group (3) was administered with vitamin C (200mg/kg b.wt), Group (4) was administered with vitamin E (200mg/kg b.wt), Groups (5) and (6) were administered aluminium (20mg/kg b.wt) along with vitamins C and E (200mg/kg b.wt) respectively. At the end of the experiment, blood samples and organs (liver, testis, heart, kidney and brain) were harvested and used for lipid profile determination. The results showed that oral administration of aluminum significantly (p<0.05) increased cholesterol level in plasma and VLDL+LDL and significantly decreased in erythrocyte, HDL and testis. Cholesterogenesis was induced in the brain, liver, kidney and heart. Plasma and VLDL+LDL triglyceride were significantly (p<0.05) increased while erythrocyte and brain triglyceride were significantly decreased. Plasma, VLDL+LDL and brain phospholipid levels were significantly (p<0.05) decreased and that of erythrocyte significantly increased. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) in rats supplemented with vitamin C and vitamin E compared with control. The vitamins significantly attenuated the affected lipid levels in the tissues affected. It was concluded that administration of vitamin C and vitamin E supplements may be used as therapies against the effects of Aluminium exposure on lipids.
Introduction: The anthropometric measurements of some apparent healthy Babcock University students (53 male and 47 female) were investigated in this study with a view to estimating the various anthropometric parameters, blood pressure components and hepatocellular injury indices (Aspartate aminotransferase - AST, Alanine aminotransferase - ALT, and Alkaline phosphatase - ALP) in different blood groups. Blood pressure, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), AST, ALT, ALP, weight, height, unblical circumference (UC), waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), were determined using standard procedures; body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage (BF%), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) and other body composition [body surface area (BSA), fat free body mass (FFBM), fat mass, total body water (TBW), intracellular fluid (ICF), extracellular fluid (ECF)] were calculated to assess overweight and obesity. While no significant difference (p > 0.05) was observed in the age, diastolic blood pressure (DBP), heart rate, FPG, weight, BMI, BSA, UC, WC, HC and WHR values of male when compared with the female counterpart; a significant (p < 0.05) decrease was observed in BF%, fat mass and WHtR, however a significant (p < 0.05) increase was found in systolic blood pressure (SBP), pulse pressure (PP), mean arterial pressure, height, FFBM, TBW, ICF and ECF of male when compared with the female subjects. No significant difference (p > 0.05) was observed in the activities of AST, ALT and ALP of male when compared with the female counterpart. Also there was no significant difference in AST, ALT when stratified according to various ABO blood groups of both male and female subjects. A significant positive relationship was observed between the ALP and FFBM (r = 0.369, p < 0.01); and BSA (r = 0.284, p < 0.01) male. Also AST significantly correlated positively with WC (r = 0.448, p < 0.01), HC (0.292, p < 0.05), UC (r = 0.402, p < 0.05), WHR (r = 0.410, p < 0.01) and WHtR (r = 0.429, p < 0.01) in the female subjects. ALP was directly correlated significantly with fat mass (r = 0.289, p < 0.05) in the female subjects. Thus these findings in young adults suggest potential clinical utility of including WC, HC, UC, WHR, WHtR as biomarkers in liver dysfunction and cardiovascular diseases assessment formulations.
Introduction: Lead has been implicated in the induction of reactive species production, leading to organ dysfunctions. The ameliorative roles of ascorbate and chelators in acute lead poisoning were comparatively studied in thirty-five male Wistar rats (150-200g), segregated into 5 groups (n=7/Group): group 1(administered normal saline),ª¤? groups 2-5 were orally exposed to 75mg/kg body weight lead acetate (PbAc) daily for 14 days. Pre-therapy blood samples were collected to ascertain blood lead level (BLL) and catalase activity 24hours after the last PbAc exposure. Groups 3, 4, and 5 were then treated with 30mg/kg body weight D-penicillamine; 30mg/kg body weight succimer; and 500mg/kg body weight ascorbate respectively for 10 days, followed by the assay for indices of oxidative stress, hepatic and renal dysfunctions.ª¤? Results obtained showed significantly elevated BLL in the four groups exposed to PbAc. which were significantly reversed about 2 folds in groups 3-5 after therapeutic interventions. Pre-therapy blood catalase activity of the PbAc treated groups was significantly (p<0.05) reduced by 39% when compared with the control group, however ascorbate significantly (p<0.05) increased catalase activity by 2 folds above the control; decreased plasma activities of alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase, blood urea nitrogen and creatinine among the groups administered therapeutics. These findings indicate that ascorbate is more effective
Introduction: Studies were carried out to compare the effects of different edible oils (olive, turkey, palm, groundnut and soya) on lipidomics of blood and organs of rats. Thirty-six male albino rats divided into six groups (n = 6) were fed compounded diets without oil (control) and with different oils (10%) each ad libitum for twenty-eight days. Lipid profiles of tissues (blood, brain, heart and liver) and Hydroxymethylglutaryl CoA (HMG CoA) reductase activity in brain and liver were determined. All edible oil-containing diets (especially groundnut and soya oils) significantly reduced (p<0.05) weight gain and daily growth rate. Condition factor was significantly decreased (p<0.05) only in groundnut and increased in turkey oil fed groups compared with other diets. Different lipidomic patterns were elicited by the different oils compared with control. Significant decreases (p<0.05) were observed in level of cholesterol in plasma (olive and turkey oils) and heart (all oil diets) while increases were observed in HDL (olive, groundnut and soya oils), VLDL-LDL (olive, turkey and palm oils), RBC (all oil diets except olive oil group), brain (groundnut and soya oils) and liver (olive and turkey oils). HMG-CoA reductase activity significantly increased in liver of olive, soya and palm oil fed groups and brain (all oil diets) but decreased in liver of groundnut oil group. Triacylglycerol level significantly increased (p<0.05) in plasma and RBC of palm oil group, HDL (turkey oil) and VLDL-LDL (olive, turkey and palm oils) while it decreased in plasma (groundnut and soya oils), brain (all oil diets) and heart (palm and groundnut oils). Phospholipid levels increased significantly (p<0.05) in RBC (all oil diets except the olive), plasma and VLDL-LDL (all oil diets), brain (soya bean oil) and heart (turkey oil). The results indicated that olive, groundnut and soya bean oils are more beneficial to health compared with palm and turkey oils which may predispose to cardiovascular disease.
Introduction: Obesity, resulting from energy imbalance caused by an increased ratio of caloric intake to energy expenditure is a
global health problem. This study investigated the effects of Sorghum bicolor leaf extracts (SBE) on blood lipid
levels in high fat diet-induced obese rats. Sorghum bicolor leaf was extracted with 70% ethanol using Soxhlet
extractor. Male Wistar rats (n=36) divided into six groups: (A) normal control, (B) obese control (High Fat Diet –
HFD), (C) HFD+150 mg/kg body weight SBE (first treatment), (D) HFD+300 mg/kg body weight SBE
(second treatment), (E) HFD+600 mg/kg body weight SBE (third treatment) and (F) HFD+ 1200 mg/kg body
weight SBE (fourth treatment) were used. The SBE was administered orally to the animals daily for 28 days. Body
weight was taken weekly and Lee index was calculated alongside. Plasma, erythrocytes and lipoproteins' lipid
profiles were determined using spectrophotometric methods. Results from the study revealed that generally,
SBE significantly reduced (p<0.05) the levels of cholesterol, phospholipids, triacylglycerol by varying levels, in
the various blood compartments of the obese animals. It was observed that SBE caused a significant (p<0.05)
decrease in plasma cholesterol level of the fourth treatment group. Also, SBE significantly (p<0.05) reduced the
elevated atherogenic and coronary risk indices by 50%. This study suggests that SBE might be useful in the
management of obesity and its co-morbid conditions.
Introduction: Malaria, a disease of antiquity, has proved to be
a formidable deterrent to the cultural and socialeconomic progress of man in tropical and subtropical zones of the world. Recently, one of the
major problems in malaria control is drug
resistance. Therefore, this study was designed to
elucidate the potentials of Croton zambesicus
leaf extract in the treatment of malaria as well as
its biochemical and histopathological effects as
an antiplasmodial agent.
Introduction: Epidemiological studies have found a progressive increase in
the prevalence of hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus
(T2DM) with increasing body fat accummulation and
complex interactions among hormonal, homodynamic and
nutritional factor [1-3]. Obesity, T2DM and hypertension
are common and important problems in primary care
[4-6]. In the recent decade many prospective and crosssectional studies have been done in order to evaluate the
anthropometric measurement methods to assess patients
with elevated blood pressure and fasting plasma glucose,
which are dominant cardiovascular risk factor [5-7]. Different
anthropometric measurements like body mass index (BMI),
waist circumference (WC), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), waistto-height ratio (WHtR), subscapular thickness or triceps
skin fold (TSF) measurement as a part of index of trunk
or peripheral skin folds are investigated for this purpose [7-
9]. Body mass index (BMI) is widely used for classification
of overweight and obesity, but it does not account for the
wide variation of the fat distributions. In addition, not all
overweight or obese patients have these metabolic diseases,
and vice versa. Therefore, there is currently overwhelming
evidence of central (abdominal or visceral) obesity as a
greater risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD) than
general obesity [2, 3].
While these simple clinical concepts may be well-accepted
among many clinicians and researchers, and assumed to
be readily accessible in the medical literature, primary care
physicians are confronted by a remarkable heterogeneity
among their patients [10, 11]. A simple question rises; which
anthropometric measurements may be useful and effective
to screen for the central obesity type of body fat of patients
with elevated blood pressure and fasting plasma glucose in
primary care practice? It has been recommended that every
population should determine their best anthropometric
measurement tool(s) in order to screen general and visceral
adiposity [1, 5]. We are not aware of any previous reports in
Nigeria in which data regarding the important relationship
Akamo, et al.: Anthropometry, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, obes
J Invest Biochem ? 2015 ? Vol 4 ? Issue 2 51
between general obesity and central obesity, and their
correlation with known CVD risk factors are investigated.
Thus, this study aimed to compare anthropometric
measurements of general obesity body mass index (BMI),
body fat percentage (BF %)] and central obesity [umblical
circumference (UC), waist circumference (WC), hip
circumference (HC), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and waist-toheight ratio (WHtR)] and assess the respective associations
with type 2 diabetes, hypertension and their comorbidity,
and also to determine if the association between the
anthropometric indices and cardiovascular risk factors varies
with gender.
Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is a complex metabolic disorder associated with chronic hyperglycaemia and hyperglucosuria
arising from insulin deficiency. It is accompanied by dyslipidemia, a major risk factor contributing to
cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, the effects of omega-3 fatty acid (O3FA) supplement on plasma, erythrocyte and
lipoproteins lipid profiles as well as aryl esterase activities in plasma and the lipoproteins of alloxan-induced (150
mg/kg body weight (b.wt), intraperitoneally) diabetic male rats were investigated. O3FA (0.4 g/kg b.wt/day) was
administered as pre- and post- treatment for 2 weeks. The blood parameters were measured spectrophotometrically.
The lipid levels were significantly increased (p<0.05) in the various compartments of the diabetic rats. The increase
was from 30% - 107% for cholesterol, 20% - 52% for phospholipid and 38% - 111% for triacylglycerol. Lipid
peroxidation was also increased from 67% in extracellular fluid to 164% in the high density lipoprotein (HDL)
compartment. O3FA administration significantly reduced (p<0.05) the levels of cholesterol, phospholipid and
triacylglycerol by varying extents in the various compartments while increasing cholesterol and phospholipid levels
in HDL. Lipid peroxidation was significantly reduced (p<0.05) by O3FA suggesting that it has protective effect
against oxidative damage. Aryl esterase activities in the lipoproteins were also activated by supplementation with
O3FA (except in HDL pre-treatment). This study indicates that O3FA supplement attenuates dyslipidemia
associated with diabetes mellitus and should be included in diets for prevention and treatment of diabetes mellitus.
Introduction: ABO blood groups, Rhesus factors and haemoglobin genotypes are all inherited blood characters.
This this study was aimed at investigating the relative incidence of hypertension comorbidly occurring with type 2
diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in ABO/Rhesus blood groups and haemoglobin genotypes in some residents of Abeokuta,
South-Western Nigeria. Age and sex matched control subjects (n=150) and patients (n=470) [hypertensive nondiabetics (HND, n=179), normotensive diabetics (ND, n=132), hypertensive diabetics (HD, n=159)] presenting at the
Medical Out-Patient Clinic of the State Hospital, Abeokuta, Nigeria were recruited. Standard electrophoretic and
haemagglutination techniques were employed in testing the blood samples. Fasting plasma glucose, haemoglobin,
plasma creatinine and plasma urea were determined spectrophotometrically. Blood pressure and its component were
also determined. Prevalence of hypertension and/or T2DM was observed in subjects with blood O followed by A.
The phenotype frequencies of ABO blood group in both hypertensive and diabetic patients and controls (both sexes)
are in the order O>A>B>AB. The RhD+ and RhD- distribution were similar in patients and their control counterparts
(p > 0.05). The spectrum of haemoglobin electrophoresis among the controls and patients can be shown with a
general formula HbAA>HbAS>HbAC>HbSS>HbSC>HbCC except in control female and HD female. The results
obtained suggest that there is a strong positive relationship between blood group O and hypertension and/or T2DM.
Large studies in other ethnic groups are needed to confirm these results.
Introduction: To investigate the comparative effects of ascorbate and chelating agents on some markers of lipid metabolism in lead exposed rats, 35 male Wistar rats were used. They were grouped randomly into five (n=7); 28 of which were administered 75 mg/kg body weight lead acetate (PbAc) orally for 14 days after which their blood samples were assayed for lead. Three of the groups were further administered 30 mg/kg body weight D-penicillamine (D-pen), 30 mg/kg body weight succimer (DMSA) and 500 mg/kg body weight ascorbate (Asc) daily orally, respectively. The control group was however administered normal saline. The blood lipid profiles were determined spectrophotometrically. Lead exposure resulted in significant dyslipidemia (p < 0.05), characterized by 50% hypercholesterolemia and hypertriglyceridemia and 132% hyperphospholipidemia (plasma) while in the red blood cells, hypocholesterolemia and hypophospholipidemia were observed. During the therapeutic doses, the groups administered chelating agents and Asc showed a significant amelioration in the plasma and red blood cell levels of total cholesterol, triacylglycerols and phospholipids in the order, DMSA > Asc > D-pen. Decrease in blood lead levels after therapy indicated that the chelating agents have an advantage over Asc. The study indicates that administration of the antioxidant, Asc may not be more efficacious than the chelating agents but could be a cheaper and more convenient therapy for lead toxicity.
Introduction: Diabetes Mellitus is one of the heterogeneous metabolic disorders associated with dyslipidemia, a major risk factor
contributing to cardiovascular disease. This metabolic abnormality affects virtually all organs. Over the years,
antidiabetic drugs which majorly aim at the hyperglycemic aspect of the disease have been used. Therefore, to
address this dyslipidemia, omega-3 fatty acid (O3FA) supplement was employed. Its effects on lipid metabolism in
the organs (heart, liver, kidney, pancreas, spleen and brain) of alloxan-induced (150mg/kg body weight,
intraperitoneally) diabetic male rats were investigated. O3FA (0.4g/kg b.wt/day) was administered as pre- and posttreatment for 2 weeks. The lipid levels were significantly increased (p<0.05) in diabetic rats. O3FA administration
significantly reduced (p<0.05) the levels of cholesterol, phospholipids, triacylglycerol by varying extents, in the
examined organs without affecting hyperglycemia in the diabetic rats. The ratio of HMG CoA/mevalonate decreased
in the liver of the diabetic rats by 28% indicating increased activity of HMG-CoA reductase. This diabetes-induced
dyslipidemia was accompanied by a 28% increase in the activity of hepatic HMG-CoA reductase. Administration of
O3FA to the diabetic rats however resulted in 10% and 17% decrease in the activity of this enzyme in the pre- and
post-treated groups respectively. Also, lipid peroxidation was significantly reduced (p<0.05) by O3FA suggesting
that it has protective effect against oxidative damage. This study reveals that O3FAsupplement has beneficial effects
in attenuating dyslipidemia observed in diabetes mellitus and could be beneficial as an adjunct in the management
of diabetes mellitus
Introduction: In order to investigate the toxic effects of lead during occupational exposure to this metal, the activity of aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD) and the concentrations of erythrocyte protoporphyrin (EPP) were determined in blood of various artisans in Abeokuta, Nigeria and these were related to blood lead levels. ALAD activity in the artisans was inhibited to varying extents. ALAD activity was inhibited to the tune of 77% in petrol station attendants while the lowest inhibition of 36% was obtained in the welders. EPP was also significantly increased in the artisans (p < 0.001). The highest EPP level of 241.57 ± 89.27 ?g/100 ml of red blood cell was observed in upholsterers. A significant (p < 0.001) negative correlation was observed between ALAD activity and blood lead levels on one hand (r = ?0.631) and between ALAD activity and EPP on the other hand (r = ?0.461). Administration of a daily dose of 500 mg ascorbic acid for 2 weeks reversed the lead-induced inhibition of ALAD. Increased EPP levels observed in the artisans also responded positively to the ascorbic acid supplementation. A significant reduction (p < 0.001) in blood lead was also observed in the artisans at the end of the 2-week ascorbic acid therapy. Our findings indicate that ascorbic acid may offer more advantages over the conventional agents for the treatment of lead poisoning, especially in cases where the subjects cannot be removed from the source of lead exposure.
Introduction: In order to investigate the effects of lead exposure on risk of cardiovascular disease during occupational exposure to this metal, plasma cholesterol and its fractions as high-density liporotein (HDL), low-density liporotein (LDL) and triglyceride were determined in various artisans in Abeokuta, Nigeria who have been shown to be occupationally exposed to lead and these were related to blood lead levels. Increased risk of cardiovascular disease was observed in the artisans. Total cholesterol in the artisans was between 1.5 and 2.0 times higher in the artisans than that present in controls while LDL cholesterol was between 1.6 and 2.4 times higher in the artisans when compared with control subjects [p < 0.001]. HDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels were not affected [p > 0.05]. A significant positive correlation was observed between blood lead and total cholesterol on one hand [r = 0.372; p = 3.0 × 10-5] and blood lead and LDL cholesterol on the other hand [r = 0.283; p = 0.001]. LDL/HDL cholesterol ratio was also higher in the artisans when compared with control. Blood pressure (systolic and diastolic) and other anthropometric parameters were not significantly different between the artisans and the control subjects [p > 0.05]. Results suggest that lead exposure increases cholesterol synthesis and transport to peripheral tissues whereas reverse cholesterol transport to the liver is not affected.
Introduction: Abstract
Fresh whole plant of Heliotropium indicum was collected, air dried, pulverized and successively extracted with
n-hexane, ethyl acetate and ethanol to obtain n-hexane, ethyl acetate and ethanol extracts respectively. The
phytochemical screening of the extracts revealed the presence of glycosides, cardiac glycosides, tannins,
terpenoids and polyphenols in all the three extracts. Alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids and steroids were present in
ethyl acetate and ethanol extracts. The antimicrobial sensitivity tests of the crude extracts on three gram positive
bacteria, five gram negative bacteria and five fungi showed significant inhibition zones against most of the
tested organisms. The isolated compound from the ethyl acetate extract was characterized with Fourier
Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS) analysis and data
matching with standard in literature.