Background and Aims:Low birth weight (LBW) persistently poses a substantial public health risk throughout Kenya, most intensely within lower-middle-income groups. The research aimed at determining the prevalence of LBW in Kenya while conducting an evaluation of maternal and sociodemographic factors related to its development. A systematic review of observational studies (cross-sectional and cohort) was conducted to assess LBW prevalence together with risk factors. Methods:The research utilized multiple databases to run a thorough literature search in accordance with PRISMA guidelines from 2000 up to November 2024. The research included sixteen studies that satisfied the established criteria. A random-effects model was utilized to evaluate both LBW prevalence as well as risk factor prevalence levels. The statistical approach for assessing heterogeneity consisted of both Cochran's Q-test and the I² statistic. The study analyzed variation by using subgroup assessments together with meta-regression evaluation methods. Results:Research findings indicated a combined prevalence of 11.7% (95% CI: 8.9%-15.1%) for LBW in Kenya alongside significant variability (I² = 98%). Mothers without formal education demonstrated the peak rate of 13.2% LBW, while mothers with tertiary education showed the lowest LBW rate at 8.5%. Rates of Low birth weight demonstrated a connection with birth order position since sixth or higher birth order infants, along with first-born infants, presented greater LBW risk (8.6% and 8.1%) than fourth or fifth order delivery (5.9%). Conclusions:This systematic review and meta-analysis confirm that LBW, with a prevalence of 11.7% in Kenya, remains a major issue that varies by region and maternal factors. The most at-risk are uneducated mothers and firstborns of high birth order. There should be region-specific policies to improve maternal health services and quality prenatal care. Additionally, promoting female education is crucial to reducing LBW and its long-term impacts.

This study systematically reviewed research on heavy metal contamination in environmental and food systems in Uganda using the PRISMA 2020 data reporting method and the PICOS framework. An extensive literature search of published papers on heavy metal contamination in Uganda's environment and food systems was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases up to May 21, 2024. Boolean operators (AND/OR/NOT) were applied to develop search strategies tailored to each database. Following duplicate removal, title and abstract screening, and full-text assessment using the Rayyan platform, 39 articles were included in the final review. Data were extracted from each study using a standardized template that captured metal type, contamination source, concentration levels, affected food or environmental matrix, geographic location, and toxicological impact. Data were synthesized using a descriptive and narrative approach. Key sources of contamination include industrial and municipal waste, agricultural practices, and emissions from transport and manufacturing. Among the metals, lead was the most mentioned across studies. Regional analysis revealed that Central Uganda had the highest reports on heavy metals, while Northern Uganda remains critically understudied. Ecologically, heavy metals threaten soil fertility, aquatic biodiversity, and agricultural sustainability. Contamination of staple foods with lead, cadmium, and mercury poses significant public health risks, particularly for children and pregnant women. Strengthened environmental monitoring, targeted regional investigations, and improved food safety surveillance within a One Health framework are urgently recommended.

Introduction:The central role of oxidative stress in neuronal injury and the progression of neurological disorders underscores the need to identify multi-target agents capable of restoring redox homeostasis. This study evaluated the antioxidant and pharmacological potential of Syzygium aromaticum ethyl acetate fraction (SEAF) using integrated phytochemical, computational, and experimental approaches. Methods:GC-MS was used to characterize the phytochemical composition of the ethyl acetate fraction of Syzygium aromaticum (SEAF). Thirteen phytometabolites with relative peak areas ≥1.0% were selected for ADME-Tox profiling and molecular docking against monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B) and 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX). In vitro antioxidant assays, acute oral toxicity testing, and in vivo evaluation of cerebellar oxidative stress biomarkers were subsequently performed. Results:GC-MS identified eugenyl acetate (43.08%), eugenol (18.86%), and β-caryophyllene (1.64%) as the predominant metabolites. The prioritized phytometabolites exhibited favorable predicted ADME-Tox profiles and notable binding energies for MAO-B (up to -8.4 kcal/mol) and 5-LOX (up to -6.8 kcal/mol), involving key interactions with HIS367 and HIS372 in MAO-B and GLN363, TYR435, and CYS172 in 5-LOX, comparable to the standard ligands. Although ascorbic acid exhibited greater radical-scavenging and ferric-reducing potencies than SEAF in the DPPH and FRAP assays, respectively, SEAF showed higher total antioxidant activity than ascorbic acid. In vivo, SEAF administration was relatively safe up to 2000 mg/kg and significantly increased cerebellar superoxide dismutase and catalase activities while reducing malondialdehyde levels in HgCl2-treated mice, with effects comparable to vitamin E. SEAF preserved cerebellar cortex histoarchitecture and Nissl substance in Purkinje cells against mercuric chloride-evoked oxidative damage. Conclusion:Syzygium aromaticum exhibited potent antioxidant effects through combined radical scavenging, enzymatic enhancement, modulation of oxidative stress-related targets, and preservation of cerebellar histoarchitecture, supporting its potential as a candidate for further preclinical development.

Background Information: Diabetes mellitus represents a global health challenge, prompting investigation into plant-derived therapies including Aloe vera (AV). Despite extensive preclinical research, the therapeutic efficacy of AV in diabetic rodent models remains heterogeneously reported. Purpose: To systematically evaluate and quantify the effects of Aloe vera administration on glycaemic control, oxidative stress, lipid metabolism, and organ protection in rodent models of diabetes mellitus. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a comprehensive search of multiple databases for controlled studies investigating AV effects in diabetic rodent models. Primary outcomes included fasting blood glucose (FBG) and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), while secondary outcomes encompassed insulin levels, oxidative stress markers (SOD, CAT, GSH, MDA), lipid profile parameters, and histopathological changes. Results: Random-effects meta-analysis was performed using standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals. Forty-eight studies met the inclusion criteria, encompassing variations in animal models, diabetes induction methods, AV preparations, dosing regimens, and treatment durations. AV administration significantly reduced fasting blood glucose (SMD = -7.893; 95% CI: -9.257 to -6.529) and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c; (SMD = -5.229; 95% CI: -7.687 to -2.772), while increasing insulin levels (SMD = 4.418; 95% CI: 2.856 to 5.981) across diabetic rodent models. Antioxidant defence was enhanced through increased SOD, catalase, and glutathione levels, alongside reduced lipid peroxidation. AV also improved lipid profiles and demonstrated pancreatic, hepatic, and renal protective effects. Despite substantial heterogeneity, sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the primary findings. Histopathological findings further demonstrated preservation of pancreatic β-cell architecture, restoration of hepatic and renal tissue integrity, and broader organ-protective effects in AV-treated diabetic rodents. Conclusion: This meta-analysis provides robust evidence for AV's therapeutic potential in diabetic rodent models, demonstrating significant improvements in glycemic control, antioxidant status, and lipid metabolism. High heterogeneity suggests the need for standardized protocols in future research. These findings support the translational potential of AV for diabetes management, warranting well-designed clinical trials.

In recent time, the use of medicinal plants in the management of human disease conditions has gained immense attention. The aim of the present review was to explore the phytochemical composition and anti-Alzheimer potential of medicinal plants from Central and West Africa. A structured systematic approach was used to conduct the present systematic review of articles. Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science were searched using the following search terms combined by Boolean operators: ("Alzheimer's disease" OR "Neurodegenerative disease" OR "Nervous system diseases") AND ("Extract" OR "herbs" OR "Plant") AND ("West Africa" OR "Central Africa" OR "Africa") on the 6th of July 2024 without any filters. Following the conclusion of the title, abstract, and full text screening, only 13 articles were included. Most of the included studies (10/13, 77 %) were conducted between 2014 and 2024. Geographically, 9 (69 %) studies were conducted in Nigeria. Plants identified in the present study include: Solanum macrocarpon, Solanum nigru, Pteleopsis suberosa, Macrosphyra longistyl, Beta vulgaris, Persea americana, Syzygium aromaticum, Citrullus lanatus, Cucumeropsis mannii, Lagenaria siceraria, Achyranthes aspera Linn., Tithonia diversifolia. These plants were found to contain Luteolin, Catechin, Decanoic acid methyl ester, 11,14-Eicosadienoic acid methyl ester, Caffeic acid, Syringic acid, Azelaic acid. The plant-derived phytochemicals were reported to modulate critical Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathways, notably oxidative stress, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition, and neuroinflammation. In conclusion, Central and West African medicinal plants represent a rich reservoir of multifunctional neuroprotective metabolites capable of targeting diverse AD pathways.

Hypertension is a leading modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease and premature death worldwide. In East Africa, its burden is increasing, yet estimates remain fragmented across countries, limiting effective regional health planning. We estimate the pooled prevalence of hypertension and identify its major determinants among adult populations in East Africa. We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of studies published between January 2007 and December 2024, following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Databases searched included PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, and grey literatures. Studies were eligible if they reported the prevalence or risk factors of hypertension in East African adults. Random‐effects model was applied to compute pooled estimates, and heterogeneity was assessed using prediction interval, I2, Q‐test, tau2, and tau. A total of 21 studies involving 56 503 participants from seven East African countries were included. The pooled prevalence of hypertension was 21.0% [95% confidence interval (95% CI): 17.9–24.4, I2: 98.8%]. The risk of hypertension was associated with overweight [odds ratio (OR) = 1.845; 95%: 1.534–2.219, I2: 66.7%], general obesity (OR = 3.045; 95% CI: 2.511–3.693; I2: 90.1%), abdominal obesity (OR = 2.010; 95% CI: 1.443–2.800; I2: 97.6%), alcohol consumption (OR = 1.232; 95% CI: 1.005–2.011; I2: 80.8%), tobacco smoking (OR = 1.479; 95% CI: 1.130–1.935; I2: 83.7%), and diabetes (OR = 2.458; 95% CI: 1.362–4.437; I2: 95.7%). In conclusion, hypertension affects nearly one in four adults in East Africa. Overweight, obesity, general obesity, WHR, T2DM, and age are associated with onset of hypertension.

Hypertension remains a critical modifiable risk factor contributing to the global burden of cardiovascular disease. Despite its escalating prevalence in West Africa, comprehensive regional data on its epidemiological patterns and associated determinants remain sparse. This study addresses this gap through a systematic review and meta-analysis, synthesizing existing evidence on hypertension prevalence and its risk factors across West African populations. A comprehensive search was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, CINAHL, and other sources to identify observational studies reporting hypertension prevalence or associated risk factors in adults aged ≥ 18 years in West Africa. Studies were included if they employed standardized diagnostic criteria (SBP ≥ 140 mmHg and/or DBP ≥ 90 mmHg or current antihypertensive medication use). Pooled prevalence estimates and odds ratios (ORs) for key risk factors were derived using random-effects meta-analysis. Heterogeneity was rigorously evaluated through prediction interval (PI), I² statistics, Q-tests, tau-squared, tau, and meta-regression analyses. The analysis included 30 studies comprising 70,212 participants from 10 West African nations. The pooled prevalence of hypertension was estimated at 33.8

Background:Amnesia, a debilitating memory disorder, often arises from neurodegenerative diseases, oxidative stress, and synaptic dysfunction. Current therapies offer limited efficacy and are associated with adverse effects, prompting exploration of safer neuroprotective agents. Flavonoids, abundant in fruits, vegetables, and medicinal plants, have emerged as promising candidates due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neurotrophic properties. Objective:This systematic review critically evaluated experimental evidence on the protective role of flavonoids in amnesia, highlighting their mechanisms of action, therapeutic outcomes, and translational potential. Methods:A comprehensive literature search was conducted using structured search strategies across the Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed databases. Studies published between 2010 and 2024 were screened according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Only original experimental research investigating flavonoid interventions in animal models of amnesia was included. Results:Out of 593 retrieved articles, 25 studies met the inclusion criteria. Behavioral assessments predominantly employed the Morris Water Maze, Novel Object Recognition Test, and Y-Maze to evaluate cognitive performance. Flavonoid interventions consistently improved memory functions, reduced oxidative stress markers (MDA), enhanced antioxidant defenses (GSH, SOD, CAT), and modulated neuroprotective gene expressions (BDNF, CREB1, Nrf2). Both crude plant extracts and isolated flavonoids, administered primarily via oral routes, demonstrated robust efficacy. Animal models included Swiss albino mice, Wistar rats, and zebrafish. Conclusions:Flavonoids exhibit multi-targeted neuroprotection against amnesia by enhancing synaptic plasticity, combating oxidative damage, and modulating apoptotic pathways. These findings support advancing flavonoids toward clinical applications for cognitive disorders, warranting further translational studies and optimized formulations.

Medicinal plants have garnered significant attention for their potential in treating various human diseases. Many of these plants exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which are crucial for mitigating the impact of oxidative stress and inflammation implicated in numerous clinical conditions. This review investigated the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of medicinal plants, particularly Bidens pilosa, and their potential applications in disease management. A structured systematic approach was employed for this analysis. Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science were searched using the following search algorithm: (“Bidens pilosa”) AND (“antioxidant”) AND (“anti-inflammatory” OR “anti-inflammatory”) on the second of April 2025 without any filters. At the end of the title, abstract and full text screening, only 50 articles met the inclusion criteria and hence included in the study. Most (35/50, 70%) were published within the years 2014–2024. Of the 50 studies, 23 (46%) were done in Africa, 14 (28%) in Asia, and 11 (22%) in South America. Most studies were done in a laboratory dish (29/50, 58%), with a smaller number done in animals (12/50, 24%). Fourteen percent (14%) of the studies used both in vivo and in vitro methods, and 4% were carried out on people. Out of the 50 studies, leaves were looked at most often (23 or 46%), followed by the whole plant (19 or 38%). Bidens pilosa lowered the tissue levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, and IL-8. It also improved the tissue levels of antioxidants glutathione while reducing lipid peroxidation via malondialdehyde (MDA). In conclusion, all the studies examined in the present study reported that Bidens pilosa possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential, hence holding great promise in the management of oxidative stress and inflammation-related conditions.

Cadaveric dissection has remained an integral part of anatomical education globally; hence, the profiles of cadavers, their gross tissue and microbial integrity has great implication in anatomical education. This study determined the profiles, gross tissue and microbial integrity of cadavers used in South-western Uganda (SWU) medical schools. A cross-sectional study was carried out for three months in anatomy and microbiology laboratories of SWU medical teaching institutions. Ethical approval was obtained, cadavers were proportionately selected and examined grossly, and surface swabs taken for microbial analysis. Data collected was entered into Microsoft Excel, cleaned, and exported to Stata version 17 for analysis. Majority of cadavers were male (68%), adult (96%), blacks (100%), unknown cause of death (96%), obtained as unclaimed bodies (100%) and with no cadaver record tag (96%). Nearly a half (48%) cadavers had disrupted dentition, 68% had poor muscle integrity and 80% with abnormal fat. About 27% cadavers had poor surface microbial integrity among which 62.5% had a mixture of both bacteria and fungi, 25.0% had only fungi while 12.5% had only bacteria. A high number of cadavers had micro-organisms on their surfaces with majority having a mixture of bacteria and fungi. Majority of cadavers had poor gross tissue integrity. Better cadaver preservation methods should be adopted. To advocate for the establishment of cadaver donation policy and programs through which good quality cadavers can be obtained.

Food and water serve as the primary sources of arsenic exposure, posing one of the most significant health threats related to heavy metals. Arsenic causes oxidative stress, which has many negative effects on humans. Nauclea latifolia (African peach) stem bark contains bioactive compounds with demonstrated antioxidant and free radical scavenging properties that may offer protection against heavy metal toxicity. This study investigated the protective effects of N. latifolia stem bark aqueous extract against sodium arsenite-induced oxidative damage in hepatorenal tissues. A total of 25 rats were separated into five groups, each containing five rats. Each rat received the prescribed treatment once daily for 28 days. A control group received no NaAsO₂, while a second group received 5 mg/kg NaAsO₂. The treatment groups received N. latifolia stem bark aqueous extracts (200 and 400 mg/kg) and silymarin (50 mg/kg), followed by 5 mg/kg of NaAsO₂. Rats administered NaAsO₂ showed a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in SOD, CAT, and GSH levels, but significant increases (p < 0.05) in proinflammatory marker (TNF-α IL-6) levels, urea, creatinine, and liver enzyme biomarkers. Treatment with N. latifolia stem bark aqueous extract and silymarin ameliorated oxidative stress and inflammation, and reduced levels of creatinine, uric acid, urea and liver enzyme activity. The N. latifolia stem bark aqueous extract prevented histological hepatic steatosis and renal cytoarchitecture deterioration induced by NaAsO₂ exposure. This suggests that plant extracts with antioxidant compounds like N. latifolia can mitigate liver and kidney damage from NaAsO₂ exposure, offering potential therapeutic applications for arsenic toxicity management.

Background Amnesia, a debilitating memory disorder, often arises from neurodegenerative diseases, oxidative stress, and synaptic dysfunction. Current therapies offer limited efficacy and are associated with adverse effects, prompting exploration of safer neuroprotective agents. Flavonoids, abundant in fruits, vegetables, and medicinal plants, have emerged as promising candidates due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neurotrophic properties. Objective This systematic review critically evaluated experimental evidence on the protective role of flavonoids in amnesia, highlighting their mechanisms of action, therapeutic outcomes, and translational potential. Methods A comprehensive literature search was conducted using structured search strategies across the Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed databases. Studies published between 2010 and 2024 were screened according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Only original experimental research investigating flavonoid interventions in animal models of amnesia was included. Results Out of 593 retrieved articles, 25 studies met the inclusion criteria. Behavioral assessments predominantly employed the Morris Water Maze, Novel Object Recognition Test, and Y-Maze to evaluate cognitive performance. Flavonoid interventions consistently improved memory functions, reduced oxidative stress markers (MDA), enhanced antioxidant defenses (GSH, SOD, CAT), and modulated neuroprotective gene expressions (BDNF, CREB1, Nrf2). Both crude plant extracts and isolated flavonoids, administered primarily via oral routes, demonstrated robust efficacy. Animal models included Swiss albino mice, Wistar rats, and zebrafish. Conclusions Flavonoids exhibit multi-targeted neuroprotection against amnesia by enhancing synaptic plasticity, combating oxidative damage, and modulating apoptotic pathways. These findings support advancing flavonoids toward clinical applications for cognitive disorders, warranting further translational studies and optimized formulations.

Arsenic is an internationally recognized groundwater pollutant. Arsenic exposure causes a number of negative consequences on the human body, including the upsurge of oxidant. Nutrition is a significant susceptibility factor for arsenic toxicity through various conceivable pathways. The rise of high‐fat diets in numerous countries leads to an increase in chronic, noncommunicable diseases. This research examined how Nauclea latifolia could reduce oxidative stress, inflammation, and distortion to the liver and kidneys in Wistar rats exposed to high‐fat diets and arsenic. Five groups of five rats each were treated daily for 6 weeks. Rats fed only with high‐fat diet with arsenic exhibited considerable elevations in proinflammatory markers, urea, creatinine, and liver enzymes, alongside significant decreases in SOD, CAT, and GSH levels. Treatment with silymarin and N. latifolia root extract prevented oxidative stress and elevated liver enzyme activity and kidney function biomarkers. The rats subjected to a high‐fat diet and arsenic suffered significant damage to the histology of the liver and kidney. However, treatment with extracts and silymarin protected the kidney and the liver damage. N. latifolia roots may attenuate the toxic consequences of diets high in fat and arsenic on the renal system and the liver by lowering reactive oxygen molecules and improving renal and liver function. Thus, N. latifolia roots could serve as a natural agent to prevent hepatorenal toxicity.

Histomorphological and histochemical techniques are widely used in infertility studies to assess testicular damage, determine the mechanisms involved, investigate potential interventions strategies, monitor treatment response and prognosis. Testis, a primary male reproductive organ is a compartmentalized organ made up of several seminiferous tubules and supporting tissue. Hence, focal damage is common, and accordingly, making accurate and insightful deductions require careful analysis of almost the entire testis section. However, manual analysis of testis histology sections to extract quantifiable data is hectic, time-consuming, liable to bias and undetected patchy damages and inter-personal variability. To circumvent these challenges, we present a step-by-step workflow using free, open-source interactive machine learning-based bioimage analysis tools; ilastik and Fiji. Ilastik uses a random forest classifier to compute generic pixel or object features for image segmentation. The segmented images exported from ilastik are subsequently quantified in FIJI to extract data for statistical analysis.•A step-by-step workflow using free, open-source interactive machine learning-based bioimage analysis tools; ilastik and Fiji.•A semiautomated, reproducible, time saving, unbiased, and broad scope method for analysis and heterogeneous tissue images.•Extraction of quantifiable data from images for statistical analysis to make comprehensive conclusions.

Background Iron Deficiency Anaemia (IDA) is a major public health challenge in East Africa, particularly affecting children and women. Conventional therapies are often limited by accessibility and cost, prompting interest in plant-based interventions as affordable and locally available alternatives. This review explores the potential of medicinal plants in managing IDA, focusing on their phytochemical composition, mechanisms of action, and haematological effects. Methods A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases was conducted on July 17, 2024. The search strategy utilised Boolean operators and keywords related to plants, IDA management, and East Africa. Studies meeting inclusion criteria were peer-reviewed articles published in English that evaluated plant-based treatments for IDA in preclinical or clinical trials. A total of 30 eligible studies were included after screening and quality assessment following PRISMA guidelines. Results The review identified plants such as Moringa oleifera , Phyllanthus emblica , and Telfairia occidentalis as effective in improving haemoglobin levels, red blood cell counts, and other haematological indices. Mechanisms include enhanced iron absorption, antioxidant activity, and stimulation of haematopoiesis. Extraction techniques commonly used were high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and aqueous methods. Key phytochemicals like flavonoids, saponins, and phenolic compounds played critical roles in IDA management. Despite promising outcomes, variations in treatment duration and protocols were noted, highlighting the need for standardisation. Conclusion Plant-based therapies offer accessible, cost-effective solutions for managing IDA in East Africa, leveraging local resources and phytochemical properties. However, further pharmacological and toxicological studies are essential to confirm safety and efficacy. This review emphasises the potential of medicinal plants in addressing IDA and calls for the exploration of underutilised plant species and the development of standardised therapeutic protocols.

Sodium arsenite (NaAsO2) and high fat diet (HFD) are already documented to provoke oxidative stress, neuro inflammation and learning and memory deficits. This work aimed to determine the possible neuroprotection of the root extract of Nauclea latifolia (NlREq) against NaAsO2/HFD induced neurotoxicity in Wistar rats. Twenty-five rats were divided into five groups: groups include control; NaAsO2/HFD treated; NaAsO2/HFD + NlREq at 200 mg /kg and 400 mg/kg; and NaAsO2/HFD treated with silymar in at the dose of 50 mg/kg. The behavioral assessments (elevated plus maze and T-maze), biochemical analysis and histological investigations were performed. As shown in the present study, NaAsO2/HFD group exhibited enhanced anxiety related behaviour, memory deficit, oxidative stress (MDA, TNF-α, IL-1β) and decreased antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GSH) activity. The histological examination revealed significant neuronal loss and remarkable architectural alteration in hippocampus, prefrontal cortex and cerebellum. These effects were ameliorated by NlREq administered in a dose-dependent manner, with the 400 mg/kg dose enhancing memory in the affected animals, reducing inflammation, replenishing antioxidant defence systems, and maintaining integrity of neurons. These results indicate that Nauclea latifolia root extract has strong neuroprotective potential and may be used as a phytochemical for managing neurotoxicity and cognitive impairment due to exposure to toxins in the environment and poor diet.

Introduction:Bisphenol A (BPA), a pervasive endocrine-disrupting chemical, impairs male reproductive health via oxidative stress, hormonal dysregulation, and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis disruption. Flavonoids, widely present in plant-derived foods and medicinal herbs, possess antioxidant and steroidogenic modulatory properties that may counteract BPA toxicity, yet preclinical findings remain inconsistent. This study aims to systematically evaluate and quantitatively synthesize preclinical evidence on the protective effects of flavonoids against BPA-induced male reproductive toxicity. Methods:Using PRISMA 2020 guidelines, Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed were searched up to September 2024. Eligible studies involved BPA exposure in male rodents with flavonoid co-treatment and reported reproductive endpoints. Hormonal and oxidative stress biomarkers were pooled using a random-effects model, expressed as standardized mean differences (SMDs), with heterogeneity assessed by I2 statistics. Twenty studies were included. Results:BPA significantly reduced testosterone (SMD = -4.91), estradiol (SMD = -2.72), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) (SMD = -7.71), and luteinizing hormone (SMD = -5.54), while increasing malondialdehyde and reducing antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GPx, and GSH). Discussion:Flavonoid co-treatment significantly improved hormonal profiles and oxidative balance, with the greatest recovery in FSH. High heterogeneity (I2 > 84%) reflected variability in doses, treatment duration, compound purity, and species. Flavonoids exhibit marked ameliorative potential against BPA-induced reproductive toxicity in preclinical models, largely through hormonal regulation and oxidative stress mitigation. Standardized protocols and dose-response studies are essential to enhance reproducibility and translational relevance.

Background: Male fertility related issue among couples in developing countries has continued to prevail despites the availability of variety of synthetic drug; hence, the need to develop more effective treatment with less side effects. The present study sort to explore medicinal plants with male fertility potential in Central and West (C&W) Africa countries. Method: The present study is a systematic review that included 25 randomized controlled trial studies using experimental animal models for various male fertility related issues treated with medicine plants sourced from within any of the C&W African countries. Result: Most of the included studies were conducted in Nigeria 80 % (20/25). The mechanisms through which C&W African plant extracts enhance fertility include reducing inflammatory biomarkers, modulating oxidative stress biomarkers (SOD, CAT, and GPx), and improving reproductive hormone levels (testosterone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone). Treatment with the plant extracts were associated with increased sperm count, motility, and viability, and improved histoarchitecture of the testes. However, only a few of the included studies chemical characterized the plant used for the study; ultraviolet spectrophotometry 4 % (1/25), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry 12 % (3/25), high-performance liquid chromatography 8 % (2/25), nuclear magnetic resonance 4 % (1/25), fourier transform infrared spectroscopy 4 % (1/25) Conclusion: This review highlights the promising fertility-enhancing potential of plant species used in C&W Africa, demonstrating their ability to improve male reproductive health through antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and hormonal modulation pathways. We recommend proper chemical characterization of the included plants to help improve our understanding of their mechanism of action.

Sodium arsenite (NaAsO₂), a common environmental pollutant, negatively affects male fertility by impairing spermatogenesis, disrupting hormones, and inducing oxidative stress in testicular tissue. This study evaluated the protective effect of Senna occidentalis aqueous leaf extract (SOLAq) against NaAsO₂-induced reproductive toxicity in male Wistar rats. Twenty-five rats were randomly assigned to the five groups: Group 1 served as the control. Group 2 received NaAsO₂ (5 mg/kg) daily. Treatment groups 3 and 4 received a single daily dose of 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg of SOLAq  +  NaAsO₂ (5 mg/kg), respectively. Group 5 received Silymarin (50 mg/kg)  +   5 mg/kg of NaAsO₂. All treatments were administered orally for 28 days. Rat treated with only NaAsO₂ had a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in sperm concentration, motility, and viability besides a significant increase in immotile and morphologically abnormal spermatozoa and an increase in the MDA level together with a significant decrease in CAT, SOD, and GSH activity. Also, NaAsO₂ suppresses hormonal levels of FSH, LH and testosterone and affects testicular histopathological alterations. SOLAq co-treatment alleviated these effects by enhancing the antioxidant status, improving the sperm characteristics, normalizing hormonal profile, and maintaining testicular tissue structure in a dose-dependent manner.