Malaria is a severe and often fatal disease with significant global health implications. Malaria control has become a major challenge, especially in malaria-endemic countries, due to the emergence and widespread use of antimalarial drug resistance, including resistance to even the first-line treatment regimen (ACTs) recommended by WHO, a lack of effective and available vaccines, and a lack of effective vector control, especially in rural communities. This is therefore a compelling reason to search for new therapeutic approaches and strategies to control the disease. This study aimed to evaluate the antimalarial as well as the ameliorative effects of Senna occidentalis in a Plasmodium berghei ANKA-infected ICR mouse model of malaria. Antimalarial activity was assessed by the 4-day suppression assay. Ameliorative effects of Senna occidentalis against oxidative stress and inflammatory responses were assessed by analysis of malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and pro-inflammatory cytokines. In addition, survival studies were carried out by determining the mean survival time (MST) of malaria-infected mice after treatment. Senna occidentalis extract, especially at 400mg/kg and in combination with Artesunate (20mg/kg), showed significant parasitemia reduction (67.6% and 87.9%) and higher mean survival time (31.0±1.41 and 34.7±2.16) compared to the malaria untreated group. MDA and INF a were lower in malaria-treated groups with Senna occidentalis extract compared to the malaria untreated groups. Senna occidentalis extract reduced parasitemia and showed inhibition of oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory reactions in malaria.
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a major public health challenge, particularly among people living with HIV, with mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) contributing significantly to chronic infections. This study determined the prevalence and viral load of HBV among highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART)-treated mothers and their infants in Katsina, Nigeria. A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 182 HAART-treated mother–infant pairs. Blood samples were screened for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) using a rapid immunochromatographic assay. HBsAg-positive maternal samples were further analyzed for HBV serological markers using a rapid immunochromatographic HBV five-panel test kit and HBV DNA viral load using real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Data were analyzed using the Chi-square test, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. The prevalence of HBsAg among the mothers was 5.5% (10/182), while none of the infants tested positive. Among the HBsAg-positive mothers, none tested positive for anti-HBs or HBeAg, whereas 40.0% and 90.0% were positive for anti-HBe and anti-HBc, respectively. HBV DNA was detected in 20.0% (2/10) of the HBsAg-positive mothers, with low viral loads ranging from 1.54 × 10³ to 5.28 × 10³ copies/mL, while the remaining mothers had undetectable viral loads. No statistically significant associations were observed between HBV infection and the socio-demographic or risk factors evaluated (p > 0.05). The findings indicate a moderate prevalence of HBV among HAART-treated mothers, with low maternal viral loads and no evidence of HBV infection among their infants.
This study investigates the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in slaughtered goats at the Kafin Hausa Abattoir in the Kafin Hausa Local Government Area, Jigawa State, Nigeria. A total of 72 goats were examined through standard parasitological techniques, including flotation and sedimentation methods. The findings revealed that (47.88)% of the goats were infected with one or more gastrointestinal parasites. Identified parasites included Strongyloides papillosus, Haemonchus contortus, Ascaris ovis, Trichuris ovis, Fasciola hepatica, and Toxocara vitulorum. Statistical analysis using the Chi-square test assessed the association between parasite prevalence and factors such as age, sex, and body condition. The results highlighted significant differences in infection rates across some categories (p < 0.05). The overall prevalence of GI parasites was 47.89% (95% 36.68-59.32CL), among which goats were infected with one or more gastrointestinal parasites. Identified parasites include (Strongyloides papillosus 11.26% (5.82-20.69CL), Haemonchus contortus 9.85% (4.86-18.99CL), Ascaris ovis 9.85% (4.86-18.99CL), Trichuris ovis 7.0% (3.05-15.45CL), Fasciola hepatica 5.63% (2,21-13.61CL), Oocyst 2.8% (0.78-9.70CL) and Toxocara vitulorum 1.4% (0.25-7.56CL). This study reveals that GI parasites remain highly prevalent among goats slaughtered at the Kafin Hausa Abattoir, located in Kafin Hausa Local Government Area, Jigawa State, Nigeria, with species sex significantly influencing infection rates.
Extended-spectrum beta-lactamases are an important cause of transferable resistance in Gram-negative bacteria throughout the world. ESBL-producing uropathogens pose a serious health challenge due to limited treatment options and increasing antimicrobial resistance worldwide. This study was carried out to determine the prevalence of Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase producing Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli among suspected urinary tract infection (UTI) patients attending selected hospitals in Zaria, Nigeria. A total of 350 midstream urine samples were collected from patients with suspected UTIs from four different hospitals. Urine samples were cultured using standard microbiological techniques; sixty-eight (19.43%) E. coli were isolated on Eosin Methylene Blue (EMB) agar, while twenty-four (6.86%) K. pneumoniae were isolated on MacConkey agar. Identification of isolates was based on colonial morphology, Gram staining, and relevant biochemical tests. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was carried out for all the isolates using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method in accordance with Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines. Most of the isolates showed high resistance to ticarcillin-clavulanate and sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim, with a prevalence of 75.0% for both. Screening and confirmation of ESBL production were performed using the Double Disc Synergy Test (DDST). Out of the 350 urine samples analyzed, significant proportions yielded E. coli and K. pneumoniae isolates. A notable percentage of these isolates demonstrated resistance to commonly used antibiotics, particularly third-generation cephalosporins. Isolates that showed resistance to more than two of the third-generation cephalosporins used were initially screened, and the DDST confirmed the presence of ESBL production among both E. coli and K. pneumoniae isolates, with E. coli showing a higher prevalence of ESBL production compared to K. pneumoniae. High levels of multidrug resistance were observed among the ESBL-producing isolates. The study revealed a high prevalence of ESBL-producing E. coli and K. pneumoniae among suspected UTI patients in Zaria, Nigeria. This underscores the need for routine ESBL screening, continuous surveillance, and rational use of antibiotics to improve the management of UTIs and curb the spread of resistant uropathogens.
Tinea capitis is a superficial fungal infection of the scalp that predominantly affects school-aged children and remains an important public health concern in developing countries. This study aimed to identify the dermatophytes responsible for tinea capitis among selected Islamiyyah schoolchildren aged 3–15 years in Kaduna Metropolis, Nigeria; determine the antifungal susceptibility patterns of the isolates; and assess associated socio-demographic risk factors. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 40 pupils presenting with clinical features suggestive of tinea capitis who were randomly selected from Islamiyyah schools in Kaduna South LGA, Kaduna North LGA (Unguwan Rimi), Igabi LGA (Hayin Malam Bello), and Chikun LGA. Scalp scrapings were collected aseptically and examined by direct microscopy using 20% potassium hydroxide (KOH) preparation. Specimens were cultured on Sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA) supplemented with chloramphenicol (0.05 g/L), and dermatophytes were identified based on colony morphology and microscopic features using lactophenol-cotton blue staining. Antifungal susceptibility testing was performed using the agar well-diffusion method with ketoconazole, terbinafine, and griseofulvin. Of the 40 children screened, 26 (65.0%) were positive for tinea capitis. The highest number of infections was recorded in Igabi LGA (38.5%), followed by Kaduna South (26.8%), Kaduna North (19.2%), and Chikun (15.5%). Trichophyton mentagrophytes was the predominant dermatophyte (38.5%), followed by Microsporum ferrugineum (30.8%), Microsporum audouinii (19.3%), and Microsporum canis (11.6%). Overall susceptibility was highest to ketoconazole (80.8%), followed by terbinafine (42.3%) and griseofulvin (38.5%). Significant associations were observed between tinea capitis and age (p = 0.004), father's education (p = 0.003), mother's education (p = 0.018), sharing of clothes/towels (p = 0.006), frequency of changing school uniform (p = 0.003), and frequent play in sand (p = 0.002). The findings demonstrate a high occurrence of tinea capitis among the study population and highlight the need for improved hygiene practices, health education, early diagnosis, and appropriate antifungal therapy to reduce disease transmission.
Periodontitis is one of the most prevalent oral diseases globally, with a high risk of tooth loss and systemic complications. The increasing resistance and side effects associated with conventional antibiotics have necessitated the search for alternative therapeutic agents from natural sources. Antibacterial activity was determined using the agar well diffusion method, while minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were evaluated using standard procedures. This study evaluated the phytochemical composition and antibacterial activity of extracts from Cyperus rotundus rhizomes and Momordica charantia leaves against oral pathogenic bacteria isolated from patients with periodontitis attending General Hospital Minna, Niger State, Nigeria. The bacteria isolated were Staphylococcus aureus (49.6%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (31.6%), Enterobacter hormaechei (11.8%), Streptococcus pneumoniae (7.4%), and Bacillus cereus (5.1%). Aqueous and ethanolic plant extracts of Cyperus rotundus rhizomes and Momordica charantia leaves revealed the presence of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, saponins, and phenols in varying concentrations. The aqueous extract of Cyperus rotundus rhizome showed zones of inhibition ranging from 4.50 ± 0.50 mm to 17.50 ± 0.50 mm, while the ethanolic extract ranged from 8.00 ± 1.00 mm to 17.50 ± 1.50 mm. The ethanolic extract of Momordica charantia leaves exhibited zones of inhibition ranging from 5.50 ± 0.50 mm to 14.00 ± 1.00 mm, with no activity observed against Enterobacter hormaechei. The MIC and MBC values ranged from 100 mg/mL to 400 mg/mL. Among the extracts, ethanolic Cyperus rotundus showed the highest antibacterial efficacy, particularly against Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus. The toxicity study of Cyperus rotundus revealed that the extracts had no significant changes (p < 0.05) in the body weight, hematological, biochemical, hepatic and renal parameters of both the control and the tested group throughout the 28days of treatment.
Endophytic fungi are prolific producers of biologically active secondary metabolites, and host plant species can significantly influence their metabolic expression and antibacterial potential. This study evaluated antibacterial activity, metabolite profiles, molecular target interactions, and in silico drug-likeness of endophytic Aspergillus species isolated from Mangifera indica and Moringa oleifera. Endophytic fungi were isolated from healthy leaf tissues, and morphological and ITS rDNA-based molecular characterization confirmed the isolates as Aspergillus niger from M. indica (MA-1) and Aspergillus flavus from Moringa oleifera (MOR-2). Crude extracts were screened against ten (10) bacterial pathogens using the agar diffusion method. Chemical profiling was performed by GC–MS, while molecular docking evaluated interactions between major metabolites and bacterial target proteins (ECPR, MurA, and PBPs). The ADME/toxicity predictions were used to assess drug-likeness. Aspergillus niger MA-1 exhibited higher activity against Escherichia coli (23.0 ± 1.0 mm) and P. aeruginosa (15.0 ± 1.0 mm), whereas A. flavus MOR-2 showed greater potency against S. aureus (22.7 ± 1.5 mm) and MRSA (19.7 ± 1.5 mm). MA-1 was dominated by fatty acids and aldehydes (octadecanoic acid, methyl 14-methylpentadecanoate), whereas MOR-2 was characterized by methyl isoheptadecanoate, methyl arachidate, and ricinoleic acid derivatives according to GC-MS analysis. Molecular docking showed stronger binding affinities of MA-1 metabolites (up to −5.6 kcal/mol) compared to MOR-2 (up to −5.4 kcal/mol). ADME/Toxicity analysis indicated favorable physicochemical properties, high predicted LD₅₀ values (5,000–20,000 mg/kg), and low toxicity risks. These findings demonstrate that host plant association significantly modulates antibacterial activity, metabolite composition, molecular target interactions, and drug-likeness of endophytic Aspergillus species, highlighting MA-1 and MOR-2 as complementary sources of antibacterial lead compounds.
Traditional fermented dairy foods (Kindirmo, Nono, yoghurt) are widely consumed in northern Nigeria but lack systematic compositional characterization needed for microbial biotechnology. We analyzed the proximate composition and gross energy of raw cow milk and three fermented derivatives collected in Sabongari and Zaria, Kaduna State (n = 100 composite samples per product; 400 composite samples total) using AOAC reference methods. Moisture, protein, fat, ash, carbohydrate (by difference), total solids (TS), and total solids non‑fat (TSNF) were determined; energy was estimated using Atwater factors. Data (mean ± SD) show significant heterogeneity across matrices (one‑way ANOVA, p < 0.05). Kindirmo was protein‑ and fat‑enriched (protein 10.86 ± 0.71%; fat 22.04 ± 1.41%) with the highest energy density (252.52 ± 12.85 kcal/100 g). Nono was carbohydrate‑driven (carbohydrate 4.21 ± 1.27%) while yogurt exhibited intermediate, balanced nutrient fractions (energy 127.71 ± 13.79 kcal/100 g). These proximate architectures suggest distinct niches for lactic acid bacteria and different potentials for probiotic delivery and starter culture design. We provide methodological details and recommend targeted microbial analyses to complement compositional data. These results should be interpreted as compositional baselines specific to Kaduna State, rather than exhaustive representations of all traditional dairy systems in Nigeria.
Traditional medicine remains a cornerstone of primary healthcare among rural populations in Nigeria, serving both therapeutic and cultural roles. This study presents an ethnobotanical survey of indigenous medicinal plants within Kafur Local Government Area. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 75 informants, including traditional healers, herbalists, and community elders. A total of 42 medicinal plant species belonging to 22 families were recorded, with Fabaceae and Asteraceae being the most represented. Leaves (58%) were the most frequently utilized plant part, while decoction (65%) was the predominant method of preparation. Quantitative ethnobotanical indices: Use Value (UV), Informant Consensus Factor (ICF), and Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC)were applied to evaluate species importance. These findings provide a scientific basis for future drug discovery and conservation strategies. A high consensus was observed for malaria and fever treatments (ICF = 0.88), indicating a strong community response to prevalent health challenges. Key species included Azadirachta indica, Senna occidentalis, and Carica papaya. These findings highlight valuable indigenous knowledge and identify priority species for pharmacological validation, conservation, and integration into primary healthcare systems.
This study investigated the biochemical optimization of biogas generation from lignocellulosic cassava peels (CP) and maize cobs (MC) via co-digestion with biological waste (BW) under mesophilic conditions. Proximate and ultimate analyses showed that CP and MC contained 61.2% and 70.8% lignocellulose, with high C/N ratios of 48:1 and 62:1, respectively, while BW had 10.5% protein and a C/N ratio of 18:1, indicating that BW could balance nutrient deficiencies and prevent VFA accumulation. Substrates were pretreated with 5% NaOH and steam before anaerobic digestion in 2.5 L batch reactors. Response Surface Methodology based on a Box-Behnken Design with 4 factors at 3 levels was employed to evaluate the interactive effects of CP:MC:BW ratio, temperature (30-40°C), pH (7.0-7.5), and retention time (30-50 days). The quadratic model was highly significant, F-value = 28.4, p < 0.0001, with R² = 0.952, Adjusted R² = 0.921, and non-significant Lack of Fit, p = 0.18. The optimized condition of CP:MC:BW = 2:1:1, 36°C, pH 7.2, and 40 days retention time produced maximum biogas yield of 0.58 ± 0.02 L/g VS with 60.2 ± 1.5% CH₄. This was 31% higher than CP mono-digestion, 0.32 ± 0.01 L/g VS, p < 0.05. Co-digestion adjusted C/N ratio to 25:1 and improved alkalinity, reducing VFA below the inhibitory level of 3000 mg/L. 16S rRNA sequencing revealed BW addition significantly altered microbial communities. Co-digestion D1 increased Firmicutes to 58.7% vs 42.3% in control, with higher abundance of hydrolytic bacteria Clostridium sp. 29.6% and Bacillus sp. 19.3%, and syntrophic Syntrophomonas sp. 10.8%. Methanogenic archaea Methanosarcina sp. 5.9% and Methanobacterium sp. 6.8% dominated methanogenesis via acetoclastic and hydrogenotrophic pathways. Alpha diversity indices were higher in D1: Shannon 4.21 vs 3.85, and Chao1 465 vs 398, confirming increased microbial diversity and digester stability. The digestate from optimized condition had NPK values of 2.1-1.8-1.5%, indicating biofertilizer potential. The study demonstrates a sustainable, low-cost route for valorizing Nigerian agro-wastes into renewable energy and biofertilizer, supporting circular-economy and climate-mitigation goals.
Oral candidiasis remains a prevalent fungal infection, especially in immunocompromised individuals, with increasing resistance to conventional antifungal drugs. This study evaluated the phytochemical composition, acute toxicity, and antifungal efficacy of Faidherbia albida stem bark extracts against Candida albicans isolated from patients with oral thrush in General Hospital, Azare, Bauchi State, Nigeria. Methanolic and aqueous extracts of F. albida stem bark were subjected to qualitative phytochemical screening using standard procedures. Antifungal activity was assessed via disc diffusion and broth microdilution methods. Acute oral toxicity was tested in five groups (n = 3 per group) of Wistar albino rats following OECD guidelines. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, tannins, phenols, saponins, glycosides, steroids, and carbohydrates in both extracts, with flavonoids absent. The methanolic extract exhibited significantly higher antifungal activity than the aqueous extract, with inhibition zones of 15.00 ± 0.00 mm and 13.00± 0.00 mm, respectively, at 250 mg/mL. The methanolic extract showed lower MIC (15.625 mg/mL) and MFC (125 mg/mL) compared to the aqueous extract (31.25 mg/mL and 250 mg/mL, respectively). No mortality or behavioral abnormalities were observed in rats at doses of up to 4000 mg/kg, indicating high safety. Faidherbia albida stem bark extracts of the methanolic fraction demonstrated notable antifungal activity against Candida albicans and were non-toxic in acute exposure. These findings support the ethnomedicinal use of F. albida in managing fungal infections and highlight its potential as a natural source for developing alternative antifungal agents.
Candida albicans are opportunistic fungal pathogens among immunocompromised individuals, particularly patients living with HIV/AIDS. This study investigated Candida albicans among HIV/AIDS patients attending General Hospital Azare, Bauchi State, Nigeria. A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 250 HIV-positive patients receiving antiretroviral therapy between October 2024 and April 2025, where Oral swab samples were collected and processed. Presumptive identification was carried out using Sabouraud Dextrose Agar, CHROMagar Candida, germ tube test, and cornmeal agar morphology. Molecular confirmation was performed using Polymerase Chain Reaction targeting the Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS1–ITS4) region. The PCR products were sequenced and analyzed using BLAST. Out of 250 samples analyzed, 27 Candida isolates were identified, of which Candida albicans accounted for 18 (66.7%). The findings demonstrate the superiority of molecular techniques over conventional phenotypic methods for accurate fungal identification. Molecular diagnostics should therefore be integrated into routine management of oral candidiasis among HIV/AIDS patients.
This study was conducted to evaluate the antibacterial effect of Urtica dioica (stinging nettle) leaf extract against clinical isolates of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The phytochemical composition of the leaf extract was analyzed using standard analytical methods. Clinical bacterial isolates obtained from wound patients at Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital were confirmed using standard microbiological techniques. Antibacterial activity of the extracts was assessed using agar well diffusion and broth dilution methods. Phytochemical screening revealed that alkaloids, phenols, glycosides, saponins, and tannins were present in both aqueous and ethanolic extracts, while quinones, steroids, and phyto steroids were absent in the aqueous extract. Terpenoids were not detected in either extract. Both bacterial species were susceptible to the extracts, The ethanolic extract demonstrated greater antibacterial activity than the aqueous extract against both test organisms. The lowest MIC and MBC values were observed against Staphylococcus aureus (25 and 50 mg/mL, respectively), while Escherichia coli was less susceptible, with MIC and MBC values ranging from 50 to 100 mg/ml. These findings demonstrate that Urtica dioica leaf extracts possess antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, with the ethanolic extract exhibiting greater antibacterial efficacy. Further studies are needed to isolate and characterize the active compounds and to evaluate their antimicrobial potential.
The emergence and dissemination of multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains of pathogenic organisms have become a major public health concern in the 21st century. MRSA remains among the high-priority multidrug-resistant organisms that need renewed efforts for the research and development of new antibiotics and innovative preventive approaches. The aim of this study is to determine the antibacterial effect of Azanzagarckeana on methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) isolated from clinical samples. A total of 300 clinical samples were collected from patients at the Microbiology laboratories of selected hospitals, MMSH (Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital), HBPH (Hasiya Bayero Paediatrics Hospital), and AIUC (Abubakar Imam Urology Centre) by employing standard microbiological procedures. MSSA (Methicillin Sensitive S. aureus) and MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant S. aureus) were identified by culture, biochemical and other phenotypical analyses. Antibacterial activity was determined by the agar well diffusion method. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) of the extracts were also determined. Of these, only 56 (18.7%) were identified biochemically as Staphylococcus aureus. Of these, 26 (46.4%) were identified as MRSA and 30 (53.6%) were MSSA. Phytochemical analysis reveals the presence of Flavonoids, Saponins, Phenols, and Tannins, among others. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of all fractions of the fruit pulp extract show that the MIC values range from 1.25mg/ml to 5mg/ml, while the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) ranges from 2.5mg/ml to 10mg/ml. However, some isolates showed MBC values greater than 10 mg/mL. The results obtained revealed promising in vitro antibacterial activity of the fruit pulp extract of Azanzagarckeana against methicillin-resistant S. aureus, even in the presence of a multidrug-resistant profile.
Trematode infections remain an important constraint to livestock productivity in many riverine communities of sub-Saharan Africa. Lokoja, Nigeria, located at the confluence of the Niger and Benue rivers, provides ecological conditions that may favour transmission of Schistosoma bovis and liver flukes. However, recent local data on their occurrence and associated risk factors are limited. This study investigated the prevalence of S. bovis infection and fascioliasis in ruminant livestock in selected communities of Lokoja. A cross-sectional survey of 512 cattle, goats, and sheep was conducted. Based solely on sedimentation microscopy, a qualitative method with known limitations in sensitivity and specificity compared to PCR or coproantigen ELISA, fresh faecal samples were examined. Management practices were assessed through structured interviews. Overall, 50.6% of animals were infected with at least one trematode species. Fascioliasis (34.2%) was more common than S. bovis infection (16.4%), and 10.2% of animals harboured both parasites. Chi-square analysis revealed that infection was significantly associated with free grazing, river water access, absence of regular deworming, and the rainy season (p < 0.05). Binary logistic regression identified species and Location as independent predictors (Model fit for fascioliasis: Pseudo R² = 0.24, AIC = 451.7). Goats had 2.12 times higher odds of S. bovis infection than sheep (OR = 2.12, 95% CI: 1.14–3.95, p = 0.018), while cattle had 2.92 times higher odds of fascioliasis than sheep (OR = 2.92, 95% CI: 1.75–4.89, p < 0.001). Ganaja recorded the highest adjusted odds for both infections relative to Old Market. Given the diagnostic limitations of sedimentation microscopy, these findings should be considered a baseline prevalence estimate requiring molecular confirmation. Nevertheless, they demonstrate a substantial trematode burden in Lokoja livestock and highlight the need for improved water access, seasonal deworming, environmental management, and farmer education.
The rising incidence of resistance among currently available antimalarial drugs, as well as the high economic cost of malaria, has prompted researchers to explore novel antimalarial molecules. This study evaluated the in vivo antiplasmodial activity of the n-butanol fraction of Combretum hypopilinum Diels based on traditional claims. A crude extract was obtained from the leaves via cold maceration using 70% ethanol, followed by fractionation with n-butanol and distilled water. Preliminary phytochemical screening of the extract and n-butanol fraction revealed the presence of key secondary metabolites including alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, terpenoids, glycosides, steroids, and anthraquinones. Acute oral toxicity testing was conducted in accordance with OECD guidelines showed no mortality or adverse effect at dose of 2000 mg/kg, indicating an LD50 greater than 2000 mg/kg and supporting a safety profile for oral administration. The antimalarial effects of the fraction at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg were assessed using three rodent malaria models: the 4-day suppressive test, curative (Rane's) test, and prophylactic test. Twenty-five mice were used in each experiment (three treatment groups and two control groups, five mice per group). Antiplasmodial activity was evaluated by measuring parasitemia, body weight, and packed cell volume (PCV). Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by Dunnett's post hoc test (P < 0.001), while paired t-tests were used to compare pre- and post-treatment values. In the 4-day suppressive test, the fraction produced dose-dependent reductions in parasitemia, with the 400 mg/kg dose resulting in 40% suppression (average parasitemia: 259±3.20) compared to 52.7% suppression by chloroquine (CQ 10 mg/kg; average parasitemia: 204±3.54). In the curative test, the fraction showed moderate efficacy, with 22.5% suppression at 400 mg/kg (average parasitemia: 353±5.20) compared to 47.3% for CQ (average parasitemia: 234±18.50). In the prophylactic test, the fraction at 400 mg/kg achieved 32% suppression (average parasitemia: 287±10.40), while pyrimethamine (PYR 10 mg/kg) showed 65% suppression (average parasitemia: 149±36.00). These findings indicate that the n-butanol fraction of Combretum hypopilinum possesses moderate antiplasmodial activity in murine models, supporting its traditional use while highlighting the need for further comparative studies against standard therapies.
Alcohol‑based hand rubs (ABHRs) are central to infection prevention, but product quality varies in low- and middle‑income settings. Four locally produced ABHRs (A–D) marketed in Kano were evaluated using an in vivo hand‑imprint protocol (n = 40 volunteers; 10 per product) and in vitro MIC/MBC testing against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25922, Escherichia coli ATCC 25923 and Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 25924. Sanitizers were tested at 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% (v/v). Paired t‑tests compared baseline vs post-application colony counts; significance p \le 0.05. Products A, C, and D produced statistically significant reductions in hand bacterial counts (A: p=0.036; C: p=0.03; D: p=0.009); B did not (p=0.868). MIC testing showed B inhibited organisms only at 100%, C at 50%, D inhibited S. aureus at 50%, and A showed no inhibition. Only D was bactericidal (MBC) against S. aureus at 100%. Several locally sold ABHRs demonstrated suboptimal or inconsistent antibacterial performance. Strengthened pre-market verification, routine post‑market surveillance, and enforcement of labelling and manufacturing standards are recommended to protect infection-prevention efforts in Nigeria.
The role of the microbiome in shaping cancer development, progression, and treatment outcomes has become increasingly recognised over the past decade. However, the mechanisms by which spatially distant microbial communities influence tumour progression remain underexplored and poorly understood. The persistence of strong tumour-modulating effects despite low microbial abundance suggests that cell-free mediators enable systemic communication. This review synthesises current evidence on microbial extracellular vesicles (MEVs), including bacterial outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) and fungal extracellular vesicles, as key long-range signalling entities linking the microbiota to cancer progression. A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus. Studies published between 2010 and 2026 that investigated mechanistic EV-host interactions were included. Findings indicate that MEVs influence multiple cancer hallmarks. These include activation of oncogenic pathways (NF-κB, Wnt/β-catenin, MAPK, PI3K/AKT), induction of epigenetic alterations (DNA methylation, histone modification, and RNA-mediated regulation), and remodelling of the tumour microenvironment through immune modulation, such as macrophage polarisation and T-cell dysfunction. MEVs also promote epithelial-mesenchymal transition and contribute to therapeutic resistance. Distinct microbial cargoes, such as Helicobacter pyloriCagA-associated factors, Fusobacterium nucleatum FadA adhesins, and fungal β-glucans, exhibit cancer-type specificity, particularly in gastric, colorectal, and pulmonary malignancies. MEVs redefine the microbiome-cancer paradigm by shifting focus from microbial colonisation to microbial signalling. They function as molecular conveyors of oncogenic information, with implications for biomarker discovery and the development of microbiome-targeted cancer therapeutics.
This study evaluated the physicochemical characteristics and macroinvertebrate assemblages of the Challawa River in Kano State, Nigeria. Standard procedures were used to determine temperature, pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), dissolved oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD₅), electrical conductivity (EC), and turbidity. Macro-invertebrates were collected and identified using standard taxonomic keys. The results revealed that water temperature ranged from 21.83 to 28.70 °C, while pH ranged from 7.05 to 8.39. However, elevated TDS, EC, turbidity, and BOD₅ values were recorded, particularly during the wet season and at the site receiving industrial effluents, indicating anthropogenic influence. Dissolved oxygen levels (5.20–5.85 mg/L) were within tolerable limits for most aquatic organisms. A total of 1,759 individuals representing 27 species and 7 families were identified. Arthropoda and Mollusca dominated the assemblage, with Margaritifera spp. being the most abundant taxa. Pollution-tolerant species such as Chironomus sp. and Tubifex sp. were present, whereas sensitive taxa (Ephemeroptera and Plecoptera) were relatively scarce. Shannon diversity was highest at Site B and lowest at Site C. Overall, the results indicate moderate ecological disturbance, particularly at the effluent-impacted site, highlighting the need for sustained bio-monitoring and effective pollution control measures.
Malaria parasites, especially Plasmodium falciparum, in Nigeria account for the leading infections and are driving increasing antimalarial drug resistance, which necessitates molecular surveillance alongside conventional diagnostics. This study aimed to examine malaria incidence, species distribution, and drug resistance markers in febrile patients from selected hospitals in Kaduna metropolis, Kaduna State. A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Yusuf Dantsoho Memorial Hospital (YDMH), Gwamna Awan General Hospital (GAGH) and General Hospital Kawo (GHK). A total of 220 patients were screened for Plasmodium spp. collecting demographic data and blood samples for microscopy, rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Species‑specific nested PCR targeted the 18S rRNA gene, and Molecular detection of resistance genes (pfcrt, pfmdr1, dhfr, dhps) was performed. Questionnaire data on treatment perceptions and risk factors were administered and analyzed descriptively. Statistical associations between species and resistance genes were assessed using odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). PCR confirmed 218 (99.1%) malaria cases, outperforming microscopy (98.5%) and RDT (79.5%). P. falciparum accounted for 98.2% of infections, with P. malariae (1.4%) and P. ovale (0.4%) detected at low frequencies. Children under five (23.3%) and adolescents aged 5–14 years (31.4%) carried a substantial burden, though adults ≥15 years comprised the largest infection group (45.0%). Resistance gene prevalence included pfcrt (44.5%), pfmdr1 (40.3%), dhfr (35.0%), and dhps (31.4%). Significant associations were observed between pfcrt and P. falciparum infections (OR = 2.18; 95% CI = 1.22–3.89; p = 0.008) and between pfmdr1 and mixed P. falciparum/P. malariae infections (OR = 1.94; 95% CI = 1.01–3.72; p = 0.044). Perceptions revealed reliance on ACTs (54.7%) but persistent chloroquine use (23.3%), alongside recognition of treatment non-compliance (33.3%) and drug resistance (33.3%) as key contributors to malaria persistence. demonstrating high malaria incidence in Kaduna State, dominated by P. falciparum, with persistent resistance gene carriage, threatening ACT partner drug efficacy and IPTp with sulfadoxine–pyrimethamine. The findings highlight the need for continuous molecular surveillance of antimalarial resistance markers, improved regulation of antimalarial drug distribution, and integration of genomic data into malaria control programmes in Nigeria. Sustained monitoring of key resistance genes, including pfcrt, pfmdr1, dhfr, and dhps, is important for tracking emerging resistance patterns and supporting evidence-based interventions aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s malaria elimination efforts.
