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PCR-RFLP Fails to Reveal Variability Within Schistosoma haematobium Detected in Loum (Cameroon) by Isoelectrofocusing Technique
Luogbou Nzu Deguy D’or,
Palmer Masumbe Netongo,
Nguemaïm Ngoufo Flore,
Marc Kenmogne Kouam,
Louis-Albert Tchuem-Tchuente,
Wilfred Fon Mbacham
Issue:
Volume 6, Issue 3, September 2021
Pages:
35-39
Received:
4 June 2021
Accepted:
25 June 2021
Published:
9 July 2021
Abstract: Schistosoma haematobium, which causes urinary schistosomiasis in humans is responsible for the largest number of infections in the word. Genetic variability among parasite populations is an important factor in their potential for producing harmful effects on the human populations they infect. In many areas, S. haematobium is sympatric with related schistosome parasites (most of other mammals) (i.e., S. bovis, S. mattheei, S. curassoni, S. intercalatum, S. guineensis and S. margrebowiei). PCR-RFLP analysis of ITS-2 rDNA loci is an usefull tools to detect hybrids amongs Schistosoma haematobium group. Many studies have been carry out in the town of Loum (Cameroon) in order to characterize Schistosoma haematobium species from this locality. However, no study based on PCR-RFLP analysis succeeds to detect any genetic variability as reported before using electrofocusing (IEF) technique. PCR-RFLP analysis realised on 10 isolates of Schistosoma haematobium from Loum reveals a DNA fragment of 501 bp after amplification of ITS2 ribosomal gene. For all the samples, the enzymatic digestion of the mentioned DNA fragment gene with Taq I reveals two DNA bands of 158 bp and 199 bp which is characteristic of Schistosoma haematobium. In summary, molecular characterization of S. haematobium in Loum using PCR-RFLP approach reveals once more the absence of hybrids and no genetic variability. Further studies on a larger geographic scale involving many schools in Loum should be encouraged to screen more parasite isolates with different primers and molecular toolS. Information from such studies would provide better insight into the local lineages of S. haematobium. This knowledge might play a major role in establishing control strategies for urogenital schistosomiasis in Loum.
Abstract: Schistosoma haematobium, which causes urinary schistosomiasis in humans is responsible for the largest number of infections in the word. Genetic variability among parasite populations is an important factor in their potential for producing harmful effects on the human populations they infect. In many areas, S. haematobium is sympatric with related ...
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Feeding Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) Based on Ocimum gratissimum and Vernonia amygdalina Leaves in West Africa: Biochemical and Hematological Aspects
Pascal Abiodoun Olounladé,
Basile Boni Saka Konmy,
Erick Virgile Bertrand Azando,
Lamine Baba Moussa,
Sanni-yo Doko Allou
Issue:
Volume 6, Issue 3, September 2021
Pages:
40-47
Received:
7 May 2021
Accepted:
15 June 2021
Published:
22 July 2021
Abstract: Several medicinal plants are used like fodder in the animal diet. The impact on the blood parameters of these plants is not always known. The present study aims to determine the influence of Ocimum gratissimum and Vernonia amygdalina leaves meal on the biochemical and haematological parameters of growing rabbits. Ninety-six rabbits New Zealand with 35 to 40 days old were used. The animals were randomly divided into 8 groups of 12 rabbits. Groups O0, O5, O10, O15, V0, V5, V10 and V15 received the ration contain 0%, 5%, 10% and 15% of Ocimum gratissimum or Vernonia amygdalina leaf meals respectively. All the rabbits had a blood sample taken. For Ocimum gratissimum, the RBC number, haemoglobin levels, glycaemia, total protein content, and PCV of the animals were not significantly different (p<0.05). However, White Blood Cells number was significantly (p <0.001) raised in group O10 (7.97±0.15 × 103/L) Aspartate Aminotransferase levels (48.67±1.53 UI) increased significantly (p <0.001). Alanine Aminotransferase, blood creatinine and total cholesterol were significantly decreased in the test groups (p <0.001). For Vernonia amygdalina, the Haemoglobin and PCV values did not change significantly (P> 0.05). The results showed significant (P <0.05) differences in the average values of AST, ALT and ALP of treatments tested compared to control. The average values of glycaemia, urea, creatinine and total cholesterol presented a significant (P <0.05) decrease between the control and the treatments. These results revealed that Vernonia amygdalina leaf meal in rabbits’ diet had ameliorative and protective health benefits up to 15%. It has no hepatotoxic and nephrotoxic effects. In conclusion, Ocimum gratissimum and Vernonia amygdalina supplemented feed significantly increased the growth performance, biochemical, and haematological profiles of the animals and was shown to have no harmful effects in rabbits.
Abstract: Several medicinal plants are used like fodder in the animal diet. The impact on the blood parameters of these plants is not always known. The present study aims to determine the influence of Ocimum gratissimum and Vernonia amygdalina leaves meal on the biochemical and haematological parameters of growing rabbits. Ninety-six rabbits New Zealand with...
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Effect of EcoR1 Polymorphism of the Apoprotein B100 Gene (Apo B 4154G>A) on Serum Lipid Profile in ART-Naive PLHIV
Kone-Kone Fatoumata,
Aka Tano Cyrielle,
Kone-Dakouri Yekayo,
Toni Thomas D. Aquin,
Konan Konan Jean Louis,
Ahiboh Hugues,
Yayo Sagou Eric,
Edjeme Ake Angele,
Attoungbre-Hauhouot Marie Laure,
Djaman Joseph,
Monnet Dagui
Issue:
Volume 6, Issue 3, September 2021
Pages:
48-57
Received:
28 June 2021
Accepted:
12 July 2021
Published:
23 July 2021
Abstract: Many people living with HIV (PLHIV) have dyslipidemia and influence of genetic predisposing factors are suspected. Some apolipoprotein genes polymorphisms are recognized as susceptibility factors, especially EcoR1 polymorphism of Apo B100 gene, main atherogenic lipid metabolizing apoprotein. The objective was to investigate the link between EcoR1 polymorphism of Apo B100 gene (Apo B 4154G>A) and the occurrence of dyslipidemia in ART-naive PLHIV. We did a cross-sectional study which included 32 HIV-negative controls and 23 PLHIV, above 18 years old, with at least one serum lipid and apoprotein disorder. Polymorphism testing was performed by PCR-RFLP and allele distribution study was performed using Hardy Weinberg equilibrium. As results, we found that the subjects were predominantly young males in both groups. BMI was higher in PLHIV. There were lipid disorders common to both PLHIV and HIV- subjects. However, PLHIV were distinguished by hypoapoproteinemia Apo A1 and HDL hypocholesterolemia. The 3 possible genotypes of EcoR1 polymorphism were found in both groups with a predominance of the mutant genotype in PLHIV (85.7% vs 14.3%). Also, the mutant allele frequency was higher in PLHIV (27.1% vs 6.2%). Regardless of HIV status, the mutant allele was more frequent in people under 40 years old, women and people with high BMI. In PLHIV, Hardy Weinberg equilibrium was deviated in all subgroups with the mutant allele frequency higher than 10%. In the overall population, the mutant allele was more frequent in subjects with increased TG, LDL-C, Apo B100, Lp (a), and CT/HDL atherogenicity index and those with normal total cholesterol, decreased HDL-C and Apo A1. Taking into account HIV status, the mutant allele found was more frequent in PLHIV (14% to 32% versus 2% to 21%). In these PLHIV, the mutant allele was more frequent especially in cases of total hypercholesterolemia (28.1%), normal LDL cholesterolemia (26.7%), HDL hypocholesterolemia (27.3%), hypoapoproteinemia A1 (32.1%), hyperapoproteinemia B100 (28.1%), hyperapoproteinemia Lp (a) (28.1%), high atherogenicity indexes (23.7%). In conclusion, the distribution of EcoR1 polymorphism alleles at position 4154 in exon 29 of ApoB100 gene was not random in PLHIV people. The carrying of mutant allele was more frequent in PLHIV and associated to increased atherogenic apolipoproteins and decreased atherosclerotic protective apolipoproteins (Apo A1 and HDL-C). The link between EcoR1 and ART must be investigates.
Abstract: Many people living with HIV (PLHIV) have dyslipidemia and influence of genetic predisposing factors are suspected. Some apolipoprotein genes polymorphisms are recognized as susceptibility factors, especially EcoR1 polymorphism of Apo B100 gene, main atherogenic lipid metabolizing apoprotein. The objective was to investigate the link between EcoR1 p...
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DNA Binding Interactions and DNA Topoisomerase I Inhibition Activities of Crude Extracts from Annona Squamosa (L.) and Annona Muricata (L.) Fruits
Lenny Mwagandi Chimbevo,
Gibson Kamau Gicharu,
Fredrick x Mwamburi Mjomba,
Suliman Essuman
Issue:
Volume 6, Issue 3, September 2021
Pages:
58-66
Received:
9 July 2021
Accepted:
30 July 2021
Published:
13 August 2021
Abstract: Some plants metabolites serve as antiprotozoal and antitumour by binding to nuclear enzyme; DNA Topo I affecting DNA function and cell survival. This study was aimed at screening DNA binding interactions and DNA Topo I inhibitory activity of crude extracts from fruits of Annona muricata (L) and Annona squamosa (L) which can form the basis of developing efficacious, safe and low cost antiprotozoal and antitumor agents. Aqueous, Methanolic, Ethyl acetate and Hexane extracts from fruits of two hypothesized antiprotozoal and antitumour plants; Annona muricata (L) and Annona squamosa (L) were screened for DNA-binding interaction and DNA Topo I inhibition. For DNA-methyl green test, 50 µL crude extracts were incubated with 200 μL DNA-methyl green in darkness at 25°C for 24 hours. Absorbance decrease at 650 nm using UV-vis spectrophotometer was calculated as a percentage of untreated DNA-methyl green value whereas with IC50 calculated by regression analysis. For DNA Topo I inhibitory activity, crude extracts were incubated in 10 µg/mL with 0.5 µg of supercoiled pBR322 DNA and 1U of DNA Topo I at 37°C for 2 hours, reaction terminated using stop buffer containing 3% SDS, 60 mM EDTA, 50% glycerol, 0.25% bromophenol blue. Products were determined by electrophoresis on 1% agarose gel in Tris-acetate-EDTA (TAE) running buffer at 65 V/cm for 2 hours. 24 extracts were studied, percentage decrease in absorbance were between 18.14±2.67 - 38.06±1.47 (Aqueous), 17.14±2.67 - 41.01±1.09% (Methanolic), 9.05±1.67 - 20.50±2.01% (Ethyl acetate) and 4.04±1.12 - 10.09±1.39% (Hexane)., IC50 values were between 50 μg/mL – 100 μg/mL (6), 100 μg/mL – 150 μg/mL (8), 150 μg/mL – 200 μg/mL (7) and <200 μg/mL (3). The activity against DNA Topo I mediated relaxation of supercoiled pBR322 DNA at 5 µM, 25 µM and 100 µM observed in 8 hits with percentage decrease in absorbance between 17.14±2.67 - 40.01±1.09% with IC50 between 62.97±3.37 μg/mL - 131.37±10.77 μg/mL. The extracts of A. muricata and A. squamosa showed DNA Topo I inhibitory activities by inhibiting the relaxation of supercoiled DNA pBR322. However, further studies need to be conducted on the purified fractions of aqueous and methanolic extracts.
Abstract: Some plants metabolites serve as antiprotozoal and antitumour by binding to nuclear enzyme; DNA Topo I affecting DNA function and cell survival. This study was aimed at screening DNA binding interactions and DNA Topo I inhibitory activity of crude extracts from fruits of Annona muricata (L) and Annona squamosa (L) which can form the basis of develo...
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Impact of Aqueous Extract of the Stem Bark of Anthocleista schweinfurthii Gilg (Loganiaceae) on Some Parameters of the Reproductive Function of Adult Albino Male Rats
Vicky Jocelyne Ama Moor,
Claude Venessa Kapya Ouandji,
Madeleine Chantal Ngoungoure,
Pascal Emmanuel Owona,
Lohik Mbolang Nguegang,
Magellan Guewo-Fokeng,
Amazia Falmata,
Aggons Batakeh,
Constant Anatole Pieme
Issue:
Volume 6, Issue 3, September 2021
Pages:
67-78
Received:
25 July 2021
Accepted:
5 August 2021
Published:
13 August 2021
Abstract: Both modern and traditional medicine options are being practiced worldwide to alleviate and treat diseases. However, some drugs used for certain diseases have deleterious effects on other systems and functions of the body. This study aims to investigate the impact of aqueous extracts of the stem bark of Anthocleista schweinfurthii on some parameters of the reproductive function of adult albino male rats, and to perform the phytochemical screening of the extract. To achieve this objective, 18 male rats aged 60 days and weighing 150 g were divided into three groups of six rats each and were orally treated for 28 days with: Distilled water (10 mL/kg) for group 1 (control group), aqueous extract of A. schweinfurthii at respective doses of 300 and 400 mg/kg for groups 2 and 3 (the two test groups). At the end of the 28-day period, the animals were anesthetized and decapitated. Blood samples were collected for serum analysis. Some androgen-dependent organs were collected and weighed. The epididymis and sperm were collected for evaluation of sperm count, mobility and viability. A sample of each organ (testis, epididymis and seminal vesicle) was homogenised for biochemical analysis and other parts were kept in Bouin’s solution for histological examinations. The phytochemical screening revealed the presence of many secondary plant metabolites in the extract, including alkaloids, flavonoids and saponins. The results obtained show that the aqueous extract induced a significant reduction of the relative weight of the testis, the epididymis and the seminal vesicles. A reduction in sperm density, mobility and viability were also observed. The rates of testicular, seminal vesicle and epididymal proteins, serum cholesterol and seminal vesicle fructose decreased significantly. Otherwise, plant extracts increased testicular cholesterol concentration. Anthocleista schweinfurthii caused a significant decrease in serum gonadotrophin levels (LH, FSH) and serum testosterone concentrations and an improvement in parameters of oxidative stress. In addition, an alteration in the structure of the androgen-dependent organs was depicted on histological sections. From these findings, it is concluded that Anthocleista schweinfurthii stem bark alters some parameters of the reproductive function of adult albino male rats and suggest a limitation of their use in male subjects.
Abstract: Both modern and traditional medicine options are being practiced worldwide to alleviate and treat diseases. However, some drugs used for certain diseases have deleterious effects on other systems and functions of the body. This study aims to investigate the impact of aqueous extracts of the stem bark of Anthocleista schweinfurthii on some parameter...
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