Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences
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- ItemAcetonic extract of Vernonia amygdalina (Del.) attenuates Cd-induced liver injury: Potential application in adjuvant heavy metal therapy(elseviier, 2018-02-27) Ogundipe, OluwadareExposure to cadmium (Cd), even at low doses, is of serious health concern because it does not undergo metabolic degradation to less toxic metabolite. Liver injury/disease, with a world-wide increasing incidence, is one of the consequences of exposure to Cd toxicity. This study aimed at determining the effects of acetonic extract of Vernonia amygdalina leaf (AEVAL) in a Wistar rat model of Cd-induced liver injury. Phytochemical screening of the extract was carried out and its oral LD50 was determined to guide the choice of therapeutic doses. Thereafter, thirty male Wistar rats were recruited for this study. The experimental groups received 4 weeks oral graded doses of the extract (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) following Cd-induced liver injury. Cd-induced liver injury (5 mg/ kg i.p for 5 consecutive days) was characterized by deleterious alterations in the levels of AST, ALT, ALP, total bilirubin and hepatic total protein (p ˂ 0.05). Also, deleterious alteration of oxidative stress indicators (GSH, SOD and CAT) and lipid peroxidation index (TBARS) was observed in the liver homogenates. Histopathological ex amination showed evidence of degenerated hepatocytes as well as inflammation with disseminated steatosis. These conditions were significantly attenuated (p ˂ 0.05) following treatment with graded doses of the extract, with the highest dose expressing least therapeutic effects. This study concluded that AEVAL attenuated Cd induced liver injury and is, potentially, a suitable option in adjuvant therapy for heavy metal toxicity
- ItemAcid Activation of Groundnut Husk for Copper Adsorption: Kinetics and Equilibrium Studies(Desalination Publications., 2017-08) Olukanni, OlumideIn this study, the use of cheap unmodified and acid-modified agricultural waste primed from groundnut husk as adsorbents for the removal of Cu(II) ions from aqueous solution were examined in a batch process under different experimental conditions. Fourier transform infrared characterization of the adsorbent before and after the adsorption process revealed the likely involvement of various functional groups such as –COOH, –C=O, –NH2 and –OH− groups. Structural and morphological changes of the biomass were equally observed by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy analysis before and after adsorption of copper ions. Optimum experimental conditions were obtained to be the initial metal concentration of 50 mg L−1, contact time of 70 min, biomass dosage of 0.03 g and hydrogen ion concentration of 5.0. The kinetic studies showed that the sorption pattern of both biomasses followed pseudo-second-order model, while the isotherms studies revealed that the adsorption data were well governed by Freundlich adsorption isotherm. The monolayer adsorption capacity for unmodified groundnut husk was found to be 14.525 and 20.146 mg g−1 for acid-modified groundnut husk as computed from the Langmuir model equation. It can thus be concluded that waste groundnut husk can be used as a low cost and environmentally friendly adsorbent for Cu(II) ions removal from aqueous solution.
- ItemAcid Activation of Groundnut Husk for Copper Adsorption: Kinetics and Equilibrium Studies(Desalination Publications, 2017-08) Olukanni, OlumideIn this study, the use of cheap unmodified and acid-modified agricultural waste primed from groundnut husk as adsorbents for the removal of Cu(II) ions from aqueous solution were examined in a batch process under different experimental conditions. Fourier transform infrared characterization of the adsorbent before and after the adsorption process revealed the likely involvement of various functional groups such as –COOH, –C=O, –NH2 and –OH− groups. Structural and morphological changes of the biomass were equally observed by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy analysis before and after adsorption of copper ions. Optimum experimental conditions were obtained to be the initial metal concentration of 50 mg L−1, contact time of 70 min, biomass dosage of 0.03 g and hydrogen ion concentration of 5.0. The kinetic studies showed that the sorption pattern of both biomasses followed pseudo-second-order model, while the isotherms studies revealed that the adsorption data were well governed by Freundlich adsorption isotherm. The monolayer adsorption capacity for unmodified groundnut husk was found to be 14.525 and 20.146 mg g−1 for acid-modified groundnut husk as computed from the Langmuir model equation. It can thus be concluded that waste groundnut husk can be used as a low cost and environmentally friendly adsorbent for Cu(II) ions removal from aqueous solution.
- ItemAcid Buffering Effects of Aqueous Leaf Extract of Ocimum gratissimum L. in the Rabbit Stomach(2013) Omotoso, DayoBackground/aims: Although the gastroprotective properties of Ocimum gratissimum L. have been mentioned, the exact mechanism is yet to be explored. Since acid output plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of gastric ulceration, the present study was aimed at investigating the effect of leaf extract of Ocimum gratissimum on gastric luminal pH, acid output, parietal cell mass and gastric mucous cell population in rabbits. Materials and Methods: The model of pyloric ligation for acid secretion and ulcer study was employed. Prior to the 4 h ligation, male New Zealand rabbits were treated orally with 75 mg/kg, 150 mg/kg and 250 mg/kg b.w aqueous leaf extract of Ocimum gratissimum twice daily for three weeks. The antisecretory and antiulcer effect of Ocimum gratissimum was compared with omeprazole (20 mg/kg p.o). Parietal cell mass and gastric mucous cell population were determined in the gastric samples by histometry. Results: Aqueous leaf extract of Ocimum gratissimum caused significant reduction in ulcer formation, gastric secretion volume and acid output in a dose dependent manner (p<0.05). Percentage inhibition was recorded as 29%, 46.2%, 52.9% for ulcer; and 16.2%, 35.9%, 52.1% for acid output upon pretreatment with 75 mg/kg, 150 mg/kg and 250 mg/kg b.w respectively. Parietal cell mass was also reduced while gastric mucous cell population and luminal pH increased accordingly when compared to the control group. Data were comparable with the antisecretory effect of omeprazole. Conclusion: The results indicate that the anti-secretory activity of Ocimum gratissimum may be the anti-ulcer mechanism of this plant.
- ItemAcute Effects of Aqueous Leaf Extract of Aspilia Africana c.d. Adams on some Haematological Parameters in Rats(African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines, 2013) Omotoso, DayoSeveral medicinal plants have been documented for their haematological effects either at low or high concentration but very little is known about Aspilia africana. The aim of the study was to investigate the acute effects of aqueous leaf extract of Aspilia africana at different concentrations on some haematological parameters in rats. Following 14 days of oral administration of aqueous extract of A. africana, Haematocrit (HCT), Haemoglobin concentration (HB), Mean Cell Haemoglobin Concentration (MCHC), Red Blood Cell Count (RBC Count), Total White Blood Cell Count (Total WBC Count), Absolute Neutrophils count (NEUT#), Absolute Lymphocytes count (LYM#), Absolute Eosinophils Count (EOSIN#) and Absolute Monocytes (MONO#) were evaluated in twenty (20) male Wistar albino rats. The rats weighed 174±20g, and were randomly assigned into 4 groups viz: Group 1, Control; Group 2, 250mg/Kg/d aqueous extract; Group 3, 500mg/Kg/d aqueous extract; and Group 4, 750mg/Kg/d aqueous extract. HCT, HB, MCHC, RBC Count, Total WBC Count, NEUT#, LYM#, EOSIN# and MONO# were significantly increased (P<0.001) in 500mg/Kg/d of A. africana extract (61.13±1.65%, 13.5±1.29g/dl, 23.33±0.0.02g/dl, 3.68±0.02 X 1012Cells/l, 2.33±0.02 X 109Cells/l, 1.32±0.04 X 109Cells/l, 1.43±0.05 X 109Cells/l, 0.47±0.02 X 109Cells/l and 0.47±0.04 X 109Cells/l, respectively) when compared to the Control (51.13±0.85%, 9.56±0.43g/dl, 19.22±0.19g/dl, 2.69±0.01 X 1012Cells/l, 1.79±0.01 X 109Cells/l, 0.80±0.00 X 109Cells/l, 0.83±0.00 X 109Cells/l, 0.18±0.00 X 109Cells/l and 0.24±0.00 X 109Cells/l, respectively) which received no extract at all. The 500mg/Kg of A. africana extract proved to be the most effective, while the 750mg/Kg proved to be the least effective in comparison with the control. The results of this study further strengthened the earlier works on the medicinal benefits of Aspilia africana and its virtue as a good pharmacological source of haematopoiesis.
- ItemAdministration of Hyrocotyl bonariensis aqueous leaves extract Regulates Cardiovascular Diseases Risk Factors in galactose model of experimental cataractogenesis(Academic Journals, 2012-04-16) Adebayo, OlusegunReports had indicated that Hydrocotyl bonariensis contains phytochemicals that can be exploited for the development of anticataractogenic agent. In the present study we investigated the effects of administration of the plant’s leaves extract on some cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors in galactose model of experimental cataract. Twenty five (25) weanling rats randomly assigned to five groups were used in the study. Aqueous extract of H. bonariensis at 500 and 1000 mgKg-1 were administered to two different groups of the rats placed on galactose diet. Plasma lipid profile, fibrinogen and platelet count were then compared after 4 weeks treatment period between these groups and with the baseline, normal and test control groups. Result of the study indicates that galactose diet elicit significant increase in the plasma cholesterol, triglyceride and artherogenic risk index (AI) whereas simultaneous administration of the extract significantly (p<0.05) lowers the parameters. Fibrinogen and platelet count were also significantly (p<0.05) reduced in rats placed on galactose diet when administered with the extract. The result also suggests that the cardio protective effect of the extract was more pronounced at lower dose administration of the extract. The study indicates that pretreatment with H. bonariensis will reduce predisposition to CVD associated with cataract.
- ItemAerobic Bacterial Degraders in Effluent from Itoku Textile Industry, Abeokuta(Academic Journals: African Journal of Biotechnology, 2013-12-11) Olukanni, OlumideThe local textile industry in Itoku village is one major textile industry in Abeokuta Ogun state, known for “adire” production whose processes are not maintained at regulatory standards. This study involves isolating and identifying aerobic microorganisms in waste water effluents from this textile Industry and screening for aerobic degraders among the isolates. Fifty milliliter (50 ml) of three dye effluents; purple, brown and green were collected into sterile bottles and designated (Ef1), (Ef2) and (Ef3). Tap water was used as control (Cont). Isolation, identification and screening of isolates for percentage decolorization were done using standard method. Colony-forming units showed the trend Ef3 > Ef2> Ef1. Bacterial isolates included Bacillus megaterium, Staphylococcus simulans, Micrococcus varians, Bacillus niacinni, Lysinibacillus sp. and Bacillus carbonificus. Aneurinbacillus aneurinilytus alone was isolated from the control sample. Bacillus megaterium and Lysinibacillus sp. were the most predominant species in the effluents. S. simulans was the most efficient degrader and its use could be exploited.
- ItemAloe Vera Gel Attenuates Acetic Acid-Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Adult Male Wistar Rats(Elsevier B.V., 2022-04-01) Awoniran, PaulUlcerative colitis is a disease of undetermined etiology and treatment. It affects the colon and rectum and typically involves the mucosa, manifesting as continuous areas of inflammation and ulceration. Aloe gel contains more than a hundred potentially active constituents of different classes. This study investigated the effect of aloe gel on experimentally-induced ulcerative colitis. Male Wistar rats were randomly allocated into groups A to F of six rats each. Ulcerative colitis was induced to rats in groups B to F by single intra-colonic administration of 2 mLof 4% acetic acid with a size 6F pediatrics catheter. In contrast, group A received an equivalent volume of normalsaline by the same route. Twenty-four hours after induction, rats in groups B and C received normal saline and 1mg/kg b. wt. daily dose of dexamethasone, respectively. In contrast, those in groups D, E, and F received 20, 40, and 60 mg/kg b. wt. doses of aloe gel, respectively, for 14 days. They were sacrificed 24 h after the last administration. We assessed disease progression by determining the clinical activity index, gross inflammation, histological alterations, the intensity of DNA in colon cells, and tissue level of nitric oxide. All the parameters but one increased significantly in group B rats. The quantitative distribution of DNA in colon cells reduced significantly in this group. Aloe gel doses significantly reversed these changes in a dose-dependent manner. Dexamethasone showed lesser efficacy relative to 60 mg dose of the Aloe gel extract. We conclude that Aloe vera gel has therapeutic potential in the treatment and management of ulcerative colitis. The most significant effects were observed in the groups treated with the highest dose of Aloe gel (60 mg/kg b. wt.). It is also worth noting that the remediated potential of aloe gel in acetic acid-induced UC surpasses that of dexamethasone.
- ItemAmelioration of Lead-induced Toxicity in Blood, Liver and Kidney Tissues of Male Wistar Rats by Fermented Ofada Rice(Turkish Journal of Agriculture - Food Science and Technology, 2015-08) Avwioroko, OghenetegaThe protective effects of ‘ofada’ rice koji (ORK, fermented ofada rice) and ascorbic acid (AA) against lead (Pb)-induced toxicity in the blood, liver and kidney tissues of male Wistar rats was investigated. The animals were divided into four treatment groups (A – D, n = 5). Groups B, C and D were intoxified by intra-peritoneal injection of 75 mg lead acetate/kg body weight. Groups C and D only had their feed mixed with ORK and AA, respectively. The results showed no significant difference in % packed cell volume (PCV) and Pb concentrations. Feeding with ORK and AA significantly decreased alanine aminotransferase activities (36.50 ± 3.54 and 34.02 ± 0.05 UL-1 respectively) compared to Pb-only treated group (85.50 ± 3.25 UL-1). The ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) for organs increased significantly following intake of feeds mixed with ORK and AA; increases in FRAP was higher for ORK-treated group possibly due to increased total flavonoids concentration following fermentation. Furthermore, Pb-induced high plasma creatinine levels decreased upon treatment with feeds mixed with ORK and ascorbic acid. These findings strongly indicated that feed supplementation with ORK by 45% may be more effective at ameliorating the effects of Pb-induced toxicity in tissues compared to supplementation with AA by 2%.
- ItemAmeliorative Effects of Ascorbic Acid and Allium sativum (Garlic) Ethanol Extract on Renal Parenchyma of Gentamicin-induced Nephropathic Rats(Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medical Research, 2020-05) Omotoso, DayoTo assess ameliorative effects of Ascorbic acid (AA) and Allium sativum ethanol extract (ASEE) on renal parenchyma of gentamicin-induced nephropathic rats. Thirty Wistar rats (weighing between 180-205 g) were randomly divided into five groups (AE). These include Group A administered with 0.9% Normal Saline (0.5 ml/kg body weight (b.w.)), Group B administered with gentamicin (GM, 200 mg/kg b.w.) intraperitoneally (i.p.), Group C administered with GM (200 mg/kg b.w.) i.p. and AA (200 mg/kg b.w.) orally, Group D administered with GM (200 mg/kg b.w.) i.p. and ASEE (200 mg/kg b.w.) orally and Group E administered with GM (200 mg/kg b.w.) i.p. and AA (200 mg/kg b.w.) orally and ASEE (200 mg/kg b.w.) orally. All administrations were done once daily for a period of ten (10) days. The body weight of study animals was recorded at the beginning and end of study period. After the study period, renal tissue of study animals was harvested, weighed, processed, stained using H & E technique. Stained sections were examined under microscope for histopathological changes within the renal parenchyma and were scored using image-J software. The results of this study showed that exposure to GM results into significant (P < 0.05) reduction in body and renal tissue weight. However, therapeutic exposure to AA and ASEE either as individual or combined treatment regimen culminated into relatively null body and renal tissue weight loss among treatment groups C-E. In addition, exposure to GM precipitates prominent histopathological changes within renal parenchyma of study animals. As observed with body and renal tissue weight changes, treatment with AA and ASEE also comparatively ameliorate GM-induced nephropathy within renal parenchyma of study animals in treatment groups. The findings of this study therefore showed that AA and ASEE exhibit ameliorative effect on the renal parenchyma of gentamicin-induced nephropathic rats either as distinct or combined treatment regimen.
- ItemAmine-Modified Kaolinite Clay Preserved Thyroid Function and Renal Oxidative Balance after Sub-Acute Exposure in Rats(J Basic Clin Physiol Pharmacol, 2020) Avwioroko, OghenetegaObjectives: Kaolinite clay is an abundant natural resource in Nigeria with several industrial applications. Incidentally, the wide-scale use of kaolinite clay is hampered by its small surface area. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of amine-modified clay on electrolyte, thyroid, and kidney function markers. Methods: Modification of kaolinite clay with an amine functional group was achieved using surface grafting technique. Characterization with a scanning electron microscope and Brunauer-Emmett Teller surface area analyzer confirmed this modification. However, there is sparse information on the effect of amine-modified kaolinite clay on electrolyte homeostasis, thyroid, and renal function. Rats were administered amine-modified kaolinite clay at the doses of 1, 2, and 5 mg/kg body weight. Results: After 14 days of repeated-dose treatment, there were no significant changes in levels of albumin, uric acid, triiodothyronine, thyroxine, ratio of triiodothyronine to thyroxine, and relative kidney organ weight. Furthermore, there were no changes in the concentration of potassium, although amine modified kaolinite clay significantly decreased sodium, calcium, and total cholesterol levels. Amine modified kaolinite clay, at all treatment doses, also preserved the renal histoarchitecture and oxidative balance in rats. Conclusions: This study reports on the effect of aminemodified kaolinite clay on renal markers and thyroid function, and further deepens our understanding of their biochemical action. This baseline data may boost the prospect of using amine-modified kaolinite clay in the treatment of contaminated water.
- ItemAnatomic Evaluation of Sub-Axial Cervical Spine among Nigerians(Elsevier, 2020-07-03) Awoniran, PaulIntroduction: Cases of tumor, fracture, or rheumatoid arthritis associated with cervical spine instability are now on the increase. An attempt to stabilize the vertebra by the placement of cervical spine screws involves some risk to the spinal cord, vertebral vessels and exiting nerve roots. To better assist injuries that occur to this region without an impingement of neurovascular structures, it is imperative to understand cervical spine anatomy and its possible variations across populations. Method: In this study, gross morphometry of 80 fully ossified human cervical vertebrae (C3–C7) was carried out. Eleven parameters were measured using digital Vernier calipers. The means and standard errors for linear and area dimensions of the vertebra body, endplates, spinal canal, and spinous and transverse processes were obtained for each vertebra. Result: All parameters increased progressively down the spine with very few changes at some vertebra level. Spinous process length increased significantly down the vertebrae. Most of these parameters were different from the reports from other populations. Conclusion: We concluded that possible variation in cervical spine morphometry of Nigerians compared to other races exist and should be taken into consideration when designing cervical vertebra related instruments and in any spinal reconstruction surgery as a size of instrument may not be generally fit for all populations.
- ItemAnthropometric Evaluation of Nasal Height, Nasal Breadth and Nasal Index among Bini Children in Southern Nigeria(2019) Omotoso, DayoBackground and Objective: The nasal dimensions are important cephalometric parameters used in physical anthropometry to distinguish different gender and groups of human population. It also used to categorize the human nasal morphology into five different morphological categories which include hyperleptorrhine, leptorrhine, mesorrhine, platyrrhine and hyperplatyrrhine. In this anthropometric study, the nasal morphological characteristics of the Bini children in Nigeria were evaluated and the prevalent nasal morphology of the study population determined. Methodology: This study involved randomly selected 500 Bini children (comprising 250 males and 250 females) between ages 5-12 years. The nasal dimensions of each subject were measured between relevant anatomical landmarks. These include the nasal height measured as distance between nasion and subnasale and the nasal breadth measured as distance between the most lateral points of right and left ala of the nose using a sliding caliper. The nasal index for each subject was calculated as nasal breadth divided by nasal height and expressed as percentage. Results: The mean nasal height for male and female Bini children was 4.58± 0.11 and 4.33 ± 0.10 while the mean nasal breadth was 4.05 ± 0.12 and 3.88 ± 0.11 respectively. The mean nasal index for male subjects (90.25 ± 1.33) was also higher than for female subjects (88.65 ± 1.50). The morphological classification showed the platyrrhine nose type as the most prevalent among the male (70.0%) and female (68.0%) Bini children. Conclusion: The nasal dimensions and nasal index demonstrated prominent sexual dimorphism and the dominance of platyrrhine nose type is the current trend in the nasal morphology of Bini children.
- ItemAnti-diabetic Effect of Combined Treatment with Aloe vera gel and Metformin on Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Rats(Journal of Ayurvedic and Herbal Medicine, 2018) Avwioroko, OghenetegaAim: The present study investigated the effects of intensive glucose regulation with combined treatment of Aloe vera gel (a herbal agent) and Metformin in an alloxan-induced diabetic rat model. Methods: Forty rats were assigned to the following groups and treated for 21 days: Group 1 (normal untreated control), Group 2 (untreated diabetic rats, DR), Group 3 (DR + 300 mg/kg PE of Aloe vera ), Group 4 (DR + 2 mg/kg Metformin) and Group 5 (DR + 300 mg/kg PE of Aloe vera + 2 mg/kg Metformin). The effect of the treatments on fasting blood glucose (FBG) level, lipid profile, renal function, atherogenic index, pancreas and kidney histopathologies were assessed. Results: FBG level in Group 5 rats decreased by 28.4, 38.0 and 69.0% at Day 7, 14 and 21, respectively. Hyperlipidaemia, high atherogenic index, increased plasma creatinine and urea levels observed in the diabetic rats were ameliorated by the single and combined treatments with Aloe vera and Metformin. Reduced level of HDL-cholesterol in the untreated diabetic rats significantly improved by 160.0, 89.8 and 178.7% respectively in Group 3, 4 and 5 animals. The pancreas and kidney histopathologies indicated signs of recovery in Group 5 rats unlike those of Group 2 that had evidence of necrotic cells in both the acini and islet in pancreas and total glomeruli erosion in kidney. Conclusion: Aloe vera in combination with Metformin for treatment of diabetic patients could avert diabetes-associated dyslipidaemia, improve cellular integrity and increase, thereby preventing patients from risk of cardiovascular diseases and kidney failure
- ItemAnti-obesity, Antioxidant and In Silico Evaluation of Justicia carnea Bioactive Compounds as Potential Inhibitors of an Enzyme Linked with Obesity: Insights from Kinetics, Semi-empirical Quantum Mechanics and Molecular Docking Analysis(ELSEVIER Biophysical Chemistry, 2021) Avwioroko, OghenetegaObesity is a global health problem characterized by excessive fat deposition in adipose tissues and can be managed by targeting pancreatic lipase (PL) activity. In the present study, we investigated the in vitro antioxidant and anti-obesity potentials of methanolic leaf extract of Justicia carnea(MEJC) using lipase inhibition kinetics model. In silico evaluations of MEJC bioactive compounds as potential drug-like agents and inhibitors of PL were also investigated using SwissADME prediction tool, semi empirical quantum mechanics(SQM), molecular electrostatic potential(MEP) and molecular docking analysis. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS) revealed presence of campesterol, stigmasterol, beta-amyrin etc. MEJC scavenged reactive species and inhibited PL activity via a mixed inhibition pattern (Ki = 107.69 μg/mL; Kii = 398.00 μg/mL) with IC50 > orlistat’s IC50. Molecular docking of GC–MS identified compounds with porcine PL showed compounds 8,10,12 and 14 having high PL binding affinity and similar binding pose with orlistat. Hydrophobic interactions and van der Waals forces were predominantly involved in the ligands’ interactions with some key catalytic site amino acid residues (Ser-153,His-264). Compounds 10,12,13 and 14 indicated high drug-likeness, bioavailability, electronegativity, ELUMO-EHOMO energy gaps and MEP. Our findings show that MEJC is a rich natural source of antioxidant and anti-obesity agents which could be optimized for development of new anti obesity drugs.
- ItemThe Anti-Parasite Action of Imidazole Derivatives Likely Involves Oxidative Stress but not HIF-1α Signaling.(Elsevier, 2021-11-01) Otuechere, ChiagoziemBackground: Therapeutic options for toxoplasmosis are limited. This fact underscores ongoing research efforts to identify and develop better therapy. Previously, we reported the anti-parasitic potential of a new series of derivatives of imidazole. Objective: In the current investigation, we attempted the investigation of the possible action mechanism of few promising anti-parasite imidazole derivatives namely C1 (bis-imidazole), C2 (phenyl-substituted 1H-imidazole) and C3 (thiophene-imidazole) Methods: We evaluated if oxidative stress, hypoxia as well as metabolic reprogramming of host L-tryptophan pathway form part of the parasite growth inhibition by imidazoles. Anti-parasite assay was performed for imidazoles at concentrations ranging from 0 to 10 μM, while pyrimethamine was used as reference drug to validate assay. Results: Imidazole compounds restricted parasite growth dose-dependently. However, in the presence of an antioxidant (Trolox), L-tryptophan and/or CoCl2 (chemical inducer of hypoxia), the growth inhibitory efficacy of imidazoles was appreciably abolished. Further, imidazole treatment led to elevated level of reactive oxygen species, while reducing parasite mitochondrial membrane potential compared with control. In contrast, imidazole had no effect on host HIF-1α level suggesting its exclusion in the anti-parasite action. Conclusion: Taken together, imidazole-based compounds might restrict parasite growth by causing oxidative stress. The findings provide new insight on the likely biochemical mechanisms of imidazoles as prospective antiparasite therapy. Data gives new perspective that not only underscores the anti-parasite prospects of imidazoles, but implicates the host L-tryptophan pathway as a feasible treatment option for T. gondii infections.
- ItemAnti-ulcerogenic Activity of Aspilia Africana Leaf Extract: Roles of Gastric Acid, Oxidative Stress and Neutrophil Infiltration(African Journal of Biomedical Research, 2014-09) Omotoso, DayoAqueous decoction of Aspilia africana C.D Adams (Asteraceae) is an effective antiulcer agent in Southern Nigeria, but little is known about the possible underlying mechanisms. This study investigated the role of gastric acid, neutrophil infiltration and oxidative stress in the anti-ulcerogenic properties of aqueous leaf extract of Aspilia africana (ALEAA) in rats. Male albino rats were treated with 250, 500, 750 mg/kg ALEAA for 21 days. Gastric ulceration was induced by indomethacin, scored, and assayed to determine the concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in homogenized samples. Acid output was measured by pyloric ligation method while neutrophil infiltration evaluated by histometry. Indomethacin caused gastric ulcer with an index of 7.50 ± 0.23, increase in MDA concentration and reduction in the concentration SOD and CAT (p<0.05). Pre-treatment with 500 and 750 mg/kg of ALEAA prevented ulcer formation by 45% and 62%, and lipid peroxidation 51% and 57% respectively while SOD and CAT increased in a similar manner. Also, acid output significantly reduced in the 500 and 750 mg/kg ALEAA treated rats by 25% and 36%. Neutrophil infiltration of the ulcerated stomach pretreated with the three doses decreased (21.5 ± 1.40 cells/field, 15.0 ± 2.50 cells/field, and 11.3 ± 1.00 cells/field versus 42.7 ± 5.50 cells/field). Aspilia africana enhanced gastroprotection via reduction of acid output, neutrophil infiltration and oxidative stress.
- ItemAntibiofilm Activity of Indigenous Dentrifices Massularia acuminata Linn and Distemonanthus benthamianus Baill on Biofilm Forming Cariogenic Bacteria.(Nigerian Journal of Microbiology, 2017) Sossou, Ibukun T.Biofilms are heterogeneous conglomerate of microorganisms which play a significant role in causing dental caries in human. This study investigated the characteristics and antibiotics susceptibility profile of biofilm forming bacteria associated with dental caries. Questionnaire was administered and dental caried swab samples were collected from patients in two dental centers, in Abeokuta, Ogun state, Nigeria. Biochemical and molecular techniques were used for further identification and characterization of bacterial isolates. Tube assay method was used to screen for biofilm forming bacteria. Sensitivity test was done using agar well-diffusion techniques on commonly used toothpaste, indigenous dentifrices (Massularia acuminata and Distemonanthus benthamianus) and antibiotics. Prevalence of caries was higher among females (59.8%) compared to males (40.2%). The age of patients mostly affected ranged between 20 and35 years. The molar teeth were majorly affected with caries (72.5%), with the left lower jaws mostly infected (46.1%). Out of 274 bacterial isolates, Streptococcus mutans was the most prevalent (22.6%), Staphylococcus aureus (19.7%), Enterobacteraerogenes (15.0%), Klebsiellapneumonia (12.8%), followed by Lactobacillussalivarius (11.3%), Bacillus subtilis (10.7%) and Escherichia coli (8.0%) respectively. Biofilm formation assay showed that out of 274 isolates 197 (71.9%) were biofilm formers. There was a significant difference (p<0.05) between the toothpastes used. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) in inhibitory effect between M. acuminata aqueous compared with D. benthamianus. Gram-positive bacteria were sensitive to erythromycin, while the Gram negative bacteria were sensitive to septrin. This study showed that dental caries in Abeokuta affects all ages and groups with pathogenic Streptococcus mutans been the most frequently occurring cariogens. Toothpastes are more effective than the use of indigenous dentifrices in preventing dental caries.
- ItemAntibiotic Resistant Pattern of Some Pathogenic Bacteria and Candida albicans Isolated from Asymptomatic Adolescents and their Susceptibility to Four Medicinal Plant Extracts.(International Journal of Advanced Research, 2013) Sossou, Ibukun T.Sexually transmitted diseases pose severe risks to human health. This study was designed to investigate the state of cleanliness and hygienic practices of adolescents using secondary school age females as case study. One hundred vaginal samples were collected from females within the age range of 9- 20years that attended an urban and a rural general Hospital in Ijebu- North East Local Government Area of Ogun State, Southwest Nigeria with the aid of sterile swab sticks. Wellstructured questionnaire was used to obtain vital information about the students. The samples were processed and identified according to the standard methods. The plant extracts tested were Garcinia kola, Cola milleni, Vernoniaamygdalina, and Brideliaferrugineawhile the antibiotics used were commercial antibiotic disk. Agar disc and well diffusion methods were employed in determining the effect of antibiotics and plant extracts respectively on the isolated organisms. Enzymatic activity was used in determining the pathogenicity of the organisms. Staphylococcus aureus (42%), Lactobacillus species (24%), Escherichia coli (11%), Proteus species (7%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (3%) and Candida albicans (13%) were isolated. Four typed bacteria were used as control. The age groups 18- 20 and 15-17 had the highest occurrence with a frequency rate of 48% and 27% respectively. The enzymatic profile revealed high enzymatic activity. Both the antibiotics and the extracts revealed highest inhibitory effects against the standard organisms than the isolated ones. Pefloxacin exhibited the highest inhibitory zone of 9.00 mm and 8.00 mm against both the control and isolated E. coliand P. aeruginosarespectively (P>0.005). Cola milleni had the highest inhibitory effect of 28 mm against P. vulgaris (P< 0.005). The study revealed that the studied subjects harboured pathogenic organisms, also the four plant extracts had more inhibitory effects on the organisms than conventional drugs used.
- ItemAntimicrobial Activity of Ficus Leaf Extracts on some Fungal and Bacterial Pathogens of Discorea rotundata from Southwest Nigeria(Journal of Biological Sciences,, 2011) Olukanni, OlumideBio-control methods have become a common practice in horticulture and crop husbandry due to the attendant negative impact of fungicides and other chemical agents on soil, vegetation and environment. Most fungicides accumulate in plant tissues and subsequently trigger carcinogenic effects in animals and humans. The leaf extracts of Ficus thonningii, F. saussureana, F. exasperata and F. sur were screened for antimicrobial properties on eight (8) fungal species which included Aspergillus flavus, A. niger, Botryodiploidia theobromae, Fusarium oxysporum, F. solani, Penicillium chrysogenum, P. oxalicum and Rhizopus stolonifer and two (2) bacterial species viz; Pseudomonas spp. and Klebsiella spp. which were isolated from the rot portions of tubers of Dioscorea rotundata. The extracts from the Ficus species had low antimicrobial effect at 25 and 50 mg mL-1 concentrations while a significant arrest of mycelia growth was observed at 75 and 100 mg mL-1 concentrations. The presence of alkaloids, flavonoids and cardiac glycosides in the leaves of these species may have conferred the antimicrobial properties on these species. Application of the fungal pathogens isolated on healthy tubers and the subsequent development of rots confirmed these organisms as the natural pathogens of this crop. The extracts from all the four Ficus species exerted significant antimicrobial effect on all the test organisms at 75 and 100 mg mL-1 concentrations and its application at these concentrations would help to minimise infection and spoilage during and after storage and improve farmers’ revenue.