Department of Biochemistry

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Start date: 2025Has files: Yes

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    EVALUATION OF HYPUSINE-8q24 VARIANTS AS PROSTATE CANCER BIOMARKERS IN MEN FROM SELECTED WEST AFRICAN COUNTRIES
    (Covenant University, Ota, 2026-09) SYLVESTER, Divine Chibuzor; Covenant University, Dissertation
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    PHYTOCHEMICAL AND BIOCHEMICAL EVALUATION OF FORMULATED ANTIDIABETIC HERBAL TEA FROM Vitex doniana and Spondias mombin
    (Covenant University, Ota, 2026-07) KAYODE, Oyinlola Deborah; Covenant University, Dissertation
    This study formulated and evaluated two antidiabetic herbal tea formulations from the underutilised Nigerian medicinal plants Vitex doniana and Spondias mombin. Formulation F1 was Vitex doniana-dominant, while F2 was Spondias mombin-dominant, with Zingiber officinale and Mentha spicata incorporated as functional adjuncts. The formulations were assessed for phytochemical composition, antioxidant capacity, in-vitro carbohydrate-enzyme inhibitory activity, proximate composition, and antimicrobial activity. The formulations were subsequently evaluated in STZ-induced diabetic Wistar rats at 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg for antidiabetic activity and toxicological effects. Qualitative screening detected alkaloids, carbohydrates, flavonoids, tannins, phenols, steroids and coumarins in both formulations, while saponins, terpenoids and cardiac glycosides were not detected. F1 recorded higher total phenolic, flavonoid and tannin contents, whereas F2 had higher alkaloid content. GC-MS confirmed 9-octadecenamide, (Z)- as the predominant library-matched compound in both formulations. Both formulations demonstrated concentration-dependent antioxidant and α-amylase/α-glucosidase inhibitory activities, with F1 generally showing stronger in-vitro performance. Proximate analysis showed higher crude fibre in F1 and higher protein and carbohydrate contents in F2. Microbial counts were low in both formulations, and both exhibited antimicrobial activity against the test organisms. In vivo, F1 and F2 produced significant (p<0.05) reductions in blood glucose concentration across the treatment period, with improvements also observed in several haematological, liver, kidney and lipid-profile parameters. No observable morbidity, mortality or behavioural abnormalities were recorded, and the treatment groups did not show a statistically demonstrated adverse effect on final body weight relative to the diabetic control. Overall, the findings indicate that both formulations possess promising antidiabetic and antioxidant potential with a generally favourable short-term safety profile, while formulation ratio influenced the magnitude and pattern of the observed biological responses
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    Disparities in Allostatic Load Among Different Races: A Comprehensive Scoping Review
    (Springer, 2025) Rotimi, Oluwakemi Anuoluwapo; Olowokere, Olanike Gloria; Olasehinde, Olutola Esther; Bisi‑Adeniyi, Titilayo Ifeoluwa; Onyia, Abimbola Fatima; De Campos, Opeyemi Christiana; Rotimi, Solomon Oladapo
    Background Allostatic load measures the cumulative stress, and it varies across populations. Its accurate measurement among racial groups is essential for understanding the effects of chronic stress on health. This review is aimed at investigat ing disparities in allostatic load between races and exploring the underlying mechanisms driving these disparities. Methods A systematic search of literature was conducted, resulting in the inclusion of 296 relevant studies. These studies investigated a wide range of allostatic load biomarkers from the cardiovascular, metabolic, neuroendocrine, and immune systems. They involved diverse racial and ethnic populations with variations in age, gender, socioeconomic status (SES), and stress exposure. Results The review revealed disparities in allostatic load biomarkers across different population groups. The extensive examination of a wide range of biomarkers in the selected studies showed systolic and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), heart rate/pulse rate, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), body mass index, total cholesterol (TC), C-reactive protein, and interleukin-6 (IL-6)/IL-6 receptor as the most frequently used biomarkers across populations. Socioeconomic status, age, racial discrimination, stressful life events, and adverse health outcomes were associated with allostatic load across different racial groups. Conclusion Disparities exist in previous studies on allostatic load due to differences in biomarker inclusion, calculation methods, study types, and populations studied. In addition, the roles of factors like social determinants of health, discrimi nation, and constitutive factors like genetics and age were discussed.
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    GC–MS analysis of locally processed palm kernel oil and its mild ameliorative effects on carbon tetrachloride-induced toxicity in rats
    (Comparative Clinical Pathology, 2025-11) Ugbogu, Eziuche A.; Iweala, Emeka J.; Jessie‑Green, Gina; Amuji, Doris Nnenna; Nwankwo, Nnamdi; Okoro, Benedict Chukwuebuka; Dania, Omoremime Elizabeth
    This study investigated the phytochemical composition of locally processed palm kernel oil (LPPKO) and its ameliorative effect on carbon tetrachloride ( CCl4) toxicity in albino Wistar rats. Phytochemical composition was analysed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). For acute toxicity, a single oral dose of up to 5000 mg/kg LPPKO was administered. On day 1, groups 2–5 experimental rats received a single dose of 1 mL/kg CCl4 diluted 1:1 in olive oil. Thirty minutes after CCl4 administration, rats in groups 3, 4, and 5 received LPPKO orally at 100, 200, and 300 mg/kg body weight, respectively, for 14 days. GC–MS analysis identified nine bioactive compounds with pharmacological properties, including 9,12-octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z) and β-sitosterol. The acute toxicity assessment revealed no detectable signs of toxicity or mortality. The results showed a significant (P < 0.05) increase in high-density lipoproteins, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), and catalase (CAT) and a significant (P < 0.05) decrease in aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), urea, total cholesterol, platelets, chloride, and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the LPPKO-treated groups compared to the CCl4- induced untreated groups (negative control) in both male and female rats. LPPKO treatment has a positive effect on CCl4- induced toxicity in rats by decreasing ALT, AST, ALP, and MDA and increasing SOD, GSH, and CAT. This study shows that LPPKO has the potential to mildly reduce the toxic effect of CCl4 on the liver of Wistar rats.
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    Overview of the human genome
    (Translational and Applied Genomics, 2025) Oyelade, Jelili; Isewon, Itunuoluwa; Ogunlana, Olubanke; worunse, Oluwadurotimi A; Oyesola, Olusola; Aromolaran, Olufemi; Dokumu, Titilope; \uwagun, Ibitayo Adem; Iheagwam, Franklyn; Babatunde, Eunice; Dania, Omoremime Elizabeth; Obembe, Olawole
    The human genome is composed of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) organized into 23 pairs of chromosomes in the nucleus of human cells, as well as the small DNA found inside individual mitochondria. Complete sequencing of the 3 billion base pairs that make up the human genome has made available a deluge of information that has enhanced our understanding of evolution, physiology, causality of disease, and association between heredity and environment in humans. This chapter discusses discoveries in genetics that spawned the field of human genomics. It further highlights the role of human genome in disease susceptibility, as well as its prospects for the future of healthcare.
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    Corrigendum to “Phytochemical composition, acute and subacute toxicity profile of Persea amaricana seed oil in albino Wistar rats” [Toxicol. Rep. 14 (2025) 101982]
    (Toxicology Reports (Elsevier), 2025) Iweala, Emeka J.; Okore, Finian Uchenna; Okoro, Benedict Chukwuebuka; Dania, Omoremime Elizabeth; Amuji, Doris Nnenna; Ugbogu, Eziuche A.
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    Ethnopharmacological relevance, phytochemistry, potential health benefits and toxicity profile of Ananas comosus (L.) Merr (pineapple)
    (Pharmacological Research - Natural Products 10 ( Elsevier), 2026) Ugbogu, Eziuche A.; Iweala, Emeka Joshua; Ukachukwu, Chukwudi Eke; Babayo, Christy; Dania, Omoremime Elizabeth; Isreal, Chollom Longs; Omonhinmin, Conrad A.; Cleanclay, Wisdom D.; Okoro, Benedict Chukwuebuka
    In traditional medicine, the cortexes of A. comosus are used as an alexipharmic, antitussive, and antidiarrheal agent, while the leaves are commonly used as a remedy for indigestion. This review provides a thorough and upto- date literature on the ethnopharmacological uses, phytochemistry, and potential health benefits of A. comosus. The articles used for this study were obtained from databases such as ScienceDirect, Frontiersin, PubMed, Springer, and MDPI. In addition, only articles written in English were included in this review. Phytochemical analysis revealed that A. comosus contains numerous biologically active compounds, including n-hexadecanoic acid, bromelain, n-heptadecanol-1, methyl ester, hexadecanoic acid, squalene, α-tocopherol, tetradecane, 5- hydroxymethylfurfural, dihydroxyacetone, dodecane, DL-α-tocopherol, furan methanol, dodecanoic acid, and 2,4,6-cycloheptatrien-1-one, among others. Various in vivo and in vitro biochemical studies have also shown that A. comosus possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antidiarrheal, antimicrobial, antimalarial, cardioprotective, anthelmintic, and antidiabetic properties. Therefore, this review shows the biologically active compounds in A. comosus and the potential of different parts of A. comosus to prevent and treat various diseases. While A. comosus has shown promise in animal studies, human clinical trials are needed to determine safe and effective doses. Further research may reveal additional uses for this versatile plant as a functional food and in modern healthcare as a traditional and complementary alternative medicine.
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    Abstract 999: Spectrum of germline BRCA1/2 gene mutations in Nigerian breast cancer patients
    (Cancer Res (2025) 85 (8_Supplement_1):, 2025-04-21) Onyia, Abimbola F.; Jibrin, Paul; Olatunji-Agunbiade, Temitope; Oyekan, Ademola; Lawal, AbdulRazzaq; Alabi, Adewumi; Sowunmi, Anthonia C.; Aje, Eben A.; Ogunniyi, Oluwabusayo B.; Nkom, Ebenezer S.; De Campos, Opeyemi C.; Rotimi, Oluwakemi A.; Oyelade, Jelili O.; Rotimi, Solomon O.
    Breast cancer (BC) is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Nigerian women, with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) being the most prevalent. The TNBC subtype is characterized by mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, and germline pathogenic carriers of these mutations have an increased risk for BC. Despite these challenges, the prevalence and spectrum of BRCA1/2 pathogenic variants in the Nigerian population differ, and there is a margin in the local capacity to characterize these variations. Therefore, this study aimed to identify and characterize germline variations in BRCA 1/2 genes in Nigerian BC patients and healthy aged-matched controls to understand the genetic risk profiles of BC in this population. Forty-five BC patients were recruited across four major hospitals in Nigeria and aged-matched with 51 healthy female controls. DNA was extracted from blood samples, followed by targeted sequencing of BRCA 1/2 intronic and exonic regions using the Ampliseq for BRCA panel and the Illumina Miseq Platform. Variant calling was performed, and the clinical significance of identified variants was evaluated on the ClinVar and BRCA exchange databases. Variants of unknown significance (VUS) were assessed using known in silico prediction software, and haplotype analysis was carried out using the Haploview 4.2 software. Pathogenic variants were identified in 6.7% of cases, all exclusive to BC patients. These variants included two BRCA1 variants (3: c.133_134delAA (p.Lys45fs) and c.5324T>A (21: p.Met1775Lys), and one BRCA 2 variant (22: c.8817_8820del (p.Lys2939fs) all found in patients with the TNBC subtype. Additionally, 97 benign or likely benign BRCA1/2 variants were found in both BC and control groups, with notable variants such as the rs799917 identified as a surrogate indicator of ancestry. Eighteen VUS were identified, with four predicted to be damaging by three in silico prediction software. The results of haplotype analysis identified distinct BC haplotypes in Nigerian BC patients. The identification of BRCA1/2 pathogenic variants in Nigerian BC patients, especially those with TNBC, suggests a potential for targeted therapies, such as PARP inhibitors, to improve treatment outcomes in this population. This further highlights the need for increased population-specific screening and the integration of genetic screening into BC management strategies, which could facilitate early detection, personalized treatment plans, and genetic counseling for Nigerian BC patients.
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    Surveillance of Wolbachia infection in mosquito species in Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria
    (Discover Applied Sciences, 2025-03-27) Tebamifor, Mercy Eyitomi; Cleanclay, Wisdom D.; Mamudu, Collins Ojonugwa; Ogunlana, Olubanke Olujoke
    Introduction In light of climate change, proliferation of mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and malaria is a mounting concern, driven by expanding mosquito populations as a result of favorable environment for their survival. Addressing public health challenges caused by mosquitoes demands constant innovation and sustainable solutions. Objective This study responds to recent reports of Wolbachia infections in West African mosquito species, suggesting their potential as biocontrol agents for disease vectors. We seek to detect the presence of Wolbachia pipientis in different mosquito species in Ota and identify mosquito species present in the area. Method We conducted a comprehensive mosquito larval surveillance in Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria using a systematic stratified random sampling method from November 2022 to March 2023 to assess mosquito species distribution and Wolbachia infection. During this period, we surveyed mosquito larvae in various sites, rearing them to adulthood. We meticulously identified species, sex, and collection locations then, stored specimens at − 20 °C. Sodium chloride precipitation protocol was employed to extract DNA from the mosquitoes individually. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis was carried out using one to one point five microliter of DNA, with distilled water as negative control. Results Out of 1265 emerging young adult mosquitoes, 62.1% were females, while 37.1% were males. Aedes species constituted 22.2%, Anopheles 37.2%, and Culex 40.6% of the population. DNA analysis identified Wolbachia infection in Ae. albopictus and Ae. aegypti, with wsp gene sizes ranging from 590 to 632 bp, confirming Wolbachia presence by sequencing. Conclusion Our study is the first report on Wolbachia presence in Aedes sp within this region, which suggests that this mosquito species is a less likely vector for dengue virus and other related infectious agents. The study highlights the importance of continuous mosquito population and breeding site monitoring for potential biocontrol interventions against disease vectors.
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    Targeting invasion-associated proteins PfSUB2 and PfTRAMP in Plasmodium falciparum: identification of potential inhibitors via molecular docking
    (BMC Infectious Diseases, 2025) Okafor, Esther. O.; Bella-Omunagbe, Mercy; Elugbadebo, Temitope; Dokunmu, Titilope M.; Adebiyi, Ezekiel
    Plasmodium falciparum subtilisin-like protease 2 (PfSUB2) is responsible for processing Plasmodium falciparum thrombospondin-related apical merozoite protein (PfTRAMP). These proteins are essential for asexual blood stage growth and RBC invasion and have, therefore, been identified as potential drug targets. This study predicted the three-dimensional structure of PfSUB2 and PfTRAMP and identified potential inhibitors using molecular docking methods. Five hundred nineteen compounds were docked against both proteins with AutoDock Vina in PyRx. Compounds 139,974,934 and 154,414,021 exhibited better binding affinities when compared to the standard inhibitors, PMSF, which highlights them as suitable inhibitors and potential antimalarials targeting PfTRAMP and PfSUB2. It also highlights 155,204,487 as a compound with dual antimalarial target potential, exhibiting a better binding affinity to PfTRAMP and PfSUB2. The study recommends 139,974,934, 154,414,021, and 155,204,487 as possible compounds for antimalarial drug development.