DEPARTMENT OF MEDICAL BIOCHEMISTRY

Stimulants are a major constituent of psychoactive substances. They cause several untoward effects; including academic difficulty which can lead to untoward consequences for students. The understanding of the knowledge and pattern of use of stimulant will help in its prevention and control. Thus, this study intended to investigate the knowledge and practice and current prevalence rates of stimulant use, using the undergraduate students in the university of Benin as case study, age and gender of students as well monthly income and how they got to know about stimulants, specific type of stimulant used and reason for using stimulants. The instrument consisted of sociodemographic variables and the stimulant knowledge section, benefits, health effects and effects section of Questionnaire for Student Drug Use Survey. It was administered on 100 undergraduate students of University of Benin selected by random technique. The current prevalence rates of stimulant use were 61%, 54% and 50% respectively for the use caffeine, alcohol and cannabis. The majority (77%) of our respondents were in the age range of 21-25. Only 2% of our respondents were married. Therefore, efforts at curtailing the use of stimulants must start early; incorporating such strategy into primary school curriculum will be worthwhile. There is need to focus more on common stimulants like coffee, Kola nut, caffeinated energy drinks. Students need to study without using stimulants.

The widespread use of herbal supplements in Sub-Saharan Africa has created an urgent need for safety evaluation of commercially available polyherbal formulations. Miracle Seed Ultima® (MSU) is a popular liquid extract marketed for immune enhancement, fertility improvement, and metabolic regulation, yet it lacks comprehensive toxicological data to support its safety claims. This study investigated the acute and subacute toxicity profile of MSU in male albino Wistar rats to establish its safety. The acute toxicity assessment was conducted using the Lorke method, which involved administering MSU at doses ranging from 10 mg/kg to 5000 mg/kg. Animals were observed for 14 days for mortality, behavioral changes, and clinical signs of toxicity. The subacute toxicity study followed OECD guideline 407, where rats received daily oral doses of 100 mg/kg, 300 mg/kg, and 1000 mg/kg for 28 days. Body weight, food consumption, and clinical signs were monitored throughout the study period. Blood samples were collected for hematological analysis and biochemical assessment of liver function (ALT, AST, ALP, total protein, albumin, bilirubin), kidney function (urea, creatinine, electrolytes), lipid profile (total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, HDL, VLDL), and fasting blood glucose. Phytochemical analysis identified high concentrations of cardiac glycosides (310.59 ± 2.36 mg/g), steroids (174.22 ± 5.01 mg/g), flavonoids (151.82 ± 3.58 mg/g), coumarins (113.27 ± 4.81 mg/g), and alkaloids (93.81 ± 7.86 mg/g). Elemental analysis indicated high levels of calcium (6,304.00 ± 2.08 mg/kg), potassium (5,252.33 ± 1.20 mg/kg), and magnesium (3,704.67 ± 2.40 mg/kg), with no detectable levels of lead or cadmium, suggesting low contamination risk. In vitro antioxidant tests showed moderate DPPH radical scavenging at 55.77 ± 3.67% and FRAP reducing activity at 51.95 ± 1.31%, with notably strong nitric oxide scavenging at 88.15 ± 2.21%, comparable to ascorbic acid (92.38 ± 0.41%). Acute toxicity tests at doses up to 5,000 mg/kg showed no mortality or clinical signs over 14 days, classifying MSU as practically non-toxic (LD50 > 5,000 mg/kg). However, kidney cysts were observed in some animals at higher doses. Subacute exposure (100, 300, 1,000 mg/kg/day for 28 days) revealed dose-dependent hepatocellular stress, with elevated serum ALT at 300 mg/kg (135.00 ± 8.70 U/L) and 1,000 mg/kg (200.56 ± 22.20 U/L). Conversely, kidney function improved, with decreased plasma urea at 1,000 mg/kg (68.62 ± 2.90 mg/dL) versus control (102.72 ± 5.70 mg/dL), suggesting nephroprotective effects. All hematological parameters and metabolic markers remained normal, indicating a No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) of 100 mg/kg/day. This study provides the first comprehensive toxicological evaluation of Miracle Seed Ultima®, demonstrating that the formulation has acceptable safety at moderate doses but may cause mild liver stress at higher doses. The findings suggest that MSU can be safely used at doses up to 100 mg/kg, but long-term users should undergo periodic liver function monitoring, particularly those with pre-existing liver conditions. These results provide essential baseline data to inform regulatory decisions, guide clinical use, and protect consumer safety while supporting the continued use of this traditional herbal formulation.

This study investigated the effect of Spondias mombin extract on selected haematological indices in a type 2 diabetic rat model. Diabetes induction produced notable hematological disturbances, characterized by reductions in haemoglobin concentration (HGB), haematocrit (HCT), and red blood cell (RBC) count relative to the normal control group. These declines reflect the oxidative and metabolic stress typically associated with chronic hyperglycaemia. Administration of Spondias mombin at doses of 200 mg and 400 mg produced a clear restorative effect on all parameters assessed. HGB and HCT values in the treated groups increased markedly approaching or surpassing normal baseline levels while RBC counts also improved substantially compared with the diabetic control. The magnitude of recovery observed was comparable to the positive control group, suggesting that S. mombin possesses potent hematoprotective activity. The observed effects are likely attributable to the plant’s rich phytochemical profile, including antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which collectively enhance erythrocyte stability, promote erythropoiesis, and counter oxidative stress. Overall, the findings indicate that Spondias mombin extract effectively mitigates diabetes-induced haematological alterations and may serve as a promising natural adjunct in the management of diabetic complications.

Potassium bromate, a chemical once commonly used as a flour improver, has been banned in many countries due to its harmful health effects, including its potential to cause cancer and organ toxicity. Despite these regulations, concerns persist about its continued use in bread production, particularly in small-scale bakeries. This study investigates the presence and concentration of potassium bromate in unsliced bread samples obtained from various bakeries in Egor Local Government Area, using both qualitative and quantitative analytical methods. Bread samples were collected and categorized based on their loaf sizes, with qualitative analysis conducted to detect the presence of potassium bromate. The results revealed that while some samples showed no reaction, others exhibited a blue-black coloration, confirming the presence of potassium bromate. Quantitative analysis further indicated varying concentrations across the tested samples, with some exceeding the acceptable safety threshold. The highest concentration recorded was 0.04 mg/kg, raising significant health concerns. These findings suggest that despite regulatory efforts, potassium bromate is still being used in some bread production processes, potentially putting consumers at risk. The study highlights the need for stricter enforcement of food safety regulations, increased public awareness, and the promotion of safer alternatives in bread-making. Strengthening routine monitoring and implementing more stringent penalties for non-compliance could help eliminate potassium bromate from the food supply chain, ultimately safeguarding public health.

Malaria remains a significant public health challenge, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions such as Nigeria, prompting global efforts for a definitive cure and complete eradication. The search for a lasting cure and total eradication of malaria has become a major concern of the World Health Organization (WHO). However, antimalarial drug resistance has emerged as one
of the most serious challenges to malaria control today surpassing the pace of new antimalaria drug development.Several concerns have been raised regarding the resistance observed in artemisinin combination therapy (ACT), the predominant treatment for malaria. The efficacy of ACT is been threatened due to reported cases of resistance, and if this resistance spreads, it could pose a significant threat to Africa, where malaria is prevalent. Hence, monitoring the emergence and spread of this resistance is crucial, particularly in malaria-prone regions like Nigeria. This study investigates the possible emergence of Plasmodium falciparum malaria infection resistance to artemisinin combination therapies (ACTs) drugs, currently used in the treatment of malaria in Benin City. Additionally, it examines the expression of the PFK13 gene, which is known for itsassociation with artemisinin resistance.Two categories of artemisinin combination therapy,Lonart(artemether and lumefantrine)and Artequin (artemether and mefloquine),were employed. A cross sectional study of subjects with Lonart resistant malaria and artequin resistant malaria in Benin metropolis was carried out and the resulting resistant effects were documented. Clinical investigation of the artemisinin resistant malaria patients alongside with full blood count parameters such as packed cell volume, white blood cell count, neutrophils, eosinophils and lymphocytes were assessed and compared to a control group. Subsequently, subjects received quinine infusion and injections, and the same parameters were evaluated post-treatment and compared with the control. Gene expression analysis of the PFK13 gene was performed for both Lonart and Artequin-resistant malaria parasite in the blood of the patients with malaria parasite,and the findings were compared with control groups. Results indicated lower packed cell volume and white blood cell values in subjects compared to the control group. However, after treatment with quinine infusion and injection, no significant differences were observed compared to the control group. PFK13 gene expression was higher in Lonart and Artequin-resistant malaria parasite subjects compared to the control groups. The study suggests the potential emergence of artemisinin resistance in Benin City. Nevertheless, further investigations, particularly into PFK13 gene mutations, will provide accurate marker for potential artemisinin resistance.

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder characterized by impaired insulin secretion, insulin
action, or both, leading to chronic hyperglycaemia and associated complications. The search for plant-based alternatives with antidiabetic potential has gained attention due to the limitations and side effects of conventional therapies. This study investigated the effects of aqueous extract of Picralima nitida fruit on serum insulin levels in streptozotocin-induced diabetic male Wistar rats. Diabetes was induced using streptozotocin, and animals were allocated into five groups: normal control, diabetic control, glibenclamide-treated, low-dose extract, and high-dose extract groups. Serum insulin concentration was quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results showed that induction of diabetes led to alterations in insulin secretion, with the diabetic control group exhibiting elevated insulin levels compared to the normal control group, suggesting partial β-cell dysfunction with compensatory responses. Glibenclamide treatment produced decreased insulin levels relative to the diabetic control, likely due to the extent of β-cell destruction. The low-dose extract produced insulin levels comparable to glibenclamide, indicating mild insulin-modulating activity. Notably, the high-dose extract produced the highest insulin concentration among all groups, suggesting a dose-dependent stimulatory effect of P. nitida on pancreatic function. Obseved from the results, the extract, particularly at higher doses,may enhance insulin secretion or protect surviving β-cells. In conclusion, the aqueous fruit extract of Picralima nitida demonstrates potential insulin- modulating activity in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. These findings support the possible use of P. nitida as a complementary therapeutic agent for diabetes management. Further studies with larger sample sizes and pancreatic histological evaluations are recommended to better elucidate its mechanism of action.

The study examined the total tannin total saponin and total alkaloid contents of dried seeds of soya beans (glycine max) and sesame seeds (sesamum indicum). Exactly 1.0 g of the powdered soybean and sesame seed samples was weighed separately and dissolved in 50 mL of cool, boiled distilled water in a 100 mL beaker. The contents were transferred into a 100 mL standard flask, and the beaker was rinsed three times with about 10 mL of the same distilled water to ensure complete transfer. The volume of the flask was then made up to the 100 mL mark with distilled water. The flask was corked, inverted four times for proper mixing, and allowed to stand. The final extract solution had a concentration of approximately 10,000 µg/mL (stock), and was used for subsequent phytochemical screening and quantitative analyses. Qualitative phytochemical screening was carried out to identify the presence of bioactive compounds such as tannins, saponins, and alkaloids, using the standard procedures described by Tiwari et al. (2001) with minor modifications.A 2.0 mL portion of each extract was evaporated to dryness, and the residue was dissolved in 5 mL of 2 mol/dm³ hydrochloric acid (HCl). The solution was filtered, and the filtrate was divided equally into two test tubes. To the first test tube, a few drops of Mayer’s reagent were added, while the second received Wagner’s reagent. The appearance of a yellowish precipitate in the first tube and a reddish-brown precipitate in the second tube confirmed the presence of alkaloids.sThe study evaluated the total tannin, saponin, and alkaloid contents of dried seeds of Glycine max (soybean) and Sesamum indicum (sesame). Thus, this study provided a scientific basis supporting the nutritional and medicinal importance of soybean and sesame seeds. Their phytochemical richness underscores their usefulness in developing nutraceuticals and plant-based formulations for disease prevention and health promotion.Based on the findings of this research, the following recommendations are made: increased utilization of sesame seeds, encouragement of soybean consumption further research, pharmaceutical and industrial exploration,government and institutional support.

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder marked by persistent hyperglycemia, which drives yet often overlooked aspect of diabetes pathophysiology is its reciprocal relationship with physiological stress. Oxidative stress can impair the function of the Hypothalamic–Pituitary– Adrenal (HPA) axis, causing an increase in cortisol secretion. Elevated cortisol, in turn, aggravates hyperglycemia and intensifies oxidative damage, creating a vicious cycle that accelerates the onset and progression of diabetic complications. Picralima nitida, a medicinal plant traditionally used in diabetes treatment, is known for its antidiabetic and antioxidant properties. However, its potential role in modulating cortisol imbalances associated with diabetes has not been previously examined. This study therefore investigated the protective effects of an aqueous fruit extract of Picralima nitida (APN) on hyperglycemia, oxidative stress, and serum cortisol levels in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced in adult male Wistar rats using STZ (55 mg/kg), after which the animals received varying doses of APN for a specified treatment period. A group treated with glibenclamide served as the standard drug control. Fasting blood glucose levels were monitored throughout the study, and serum cortisol concentrations were measured using a competitive ELISA technique. The findings revealed that STZ-induced diabetic rats experienced a significant rise in cortisol levels (18.5 ± 0.1 µg/ml) compared with the non-diabetic control group (13.35 ± 2.45 µg/ml), confirming that oxidative stress triggers heightened HPA axis activity. Treatment with APN produced a pronounced reduction in cortisol levels, with the low-dose and high-dose groups showing values of 10.3 ± 1.4 µg/ml and 10.15 ± 1.45 µg/ml respectively. These reductions were statistically significant when compared with both the control and diabetic groups (P < 0.05). In addition, APN administration led to marked improvements in fasting blood glucose and oxidative stress markers. In summary, the study demonstrates that Picralima nitida effectively lowers blood glucose, mitigates oxidative stress, and corrects cortisol imbalances in diabetic rats. These results underscore its potential therapeutic value in addressing both metabolic disturbances and stress-related abnormalities associated with diabetes mellitus.

Sphenocentrum jollyanum Pierre is a medicinal plant widely used across West Africa for the treatment of various ailments, yet the chemical constituents responsible for many of its reported therapeutic effects remain underexplored in scientific literature. This study aimed to identify the major fatty acids and ester compounds present in the aqueous stem extract of S. jollyanum using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), with the goal of contributing to phytochemical profiling and supporting the plant’s ethnomedicinal applications. Fresh stems were cleaned, air-dried, pulverized, and extracted by cold maceration. The resulting filtrates were freeze-dried and the crude aqueous extract was subjected to GC-MS analysis under optimized chromatographic and mass spectrometric conditions. The GC-MS scan revealed a spectrum of bioactive constituents including compounds known for antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and metabolic regulatory activities. This study provides scientific support for the medicinal uses of S. jollyanum and establish a biochemical basis for its reported bioactivities. It further highlights the importance of GC-MS as a robust analytical tool for identifying volatile and semi-volatile compounds in medicinal plant extracts. Overall, the results strengthen the pharmacognostic understanding of S. jollyanum and lay groundwork for future studies on its biological mechanisms, safety, and potential drug development applications.

Persistent hyperglycemia is a hallmark of diabetes mellitus, a chronic metabolic condition that increases the risk of major vascular problems such neuropathy, nephropathy, and cardiovascular disease. Inhibition of carbohydrate-digesting enzymes, especially α-glucosidase, has become an effective therapeutic method for controlling postprandial blood glucose. Despite the availability of synthetic α-glucosidase inhibitors like acarbose, their usage is frequently restricted due to gastrointestinal side effects, which has sparked interest in safer, plant-based substitutes. Although the leaves and seeds of the traditional West African medicinal plant Picralima nitida have been shown to have antidiabetic qualities, nothing is known about how its fruit extract affects α- glucosidase. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of aqueous Picralima nitida fruit extract on α-glucosidase activity in male Wistar rats with diabetes induced by streptozotocin. Rats were given graded doses of the fruit extract after being acclimated to controlled laboratory conditions and grouped based on body weight. A colorimetric assay based on the hydrolysis of p- nitrophenyl-α-D-glucopyranoside was used to test serum α-glucosidase activity. The enzyme activity was determined spectrophotometrically at 405 nm. Tukey's post hoc test and one-way ANOVA were used to examine the data, which were presented as mean ± SEM. The study's findings are still awaiting. It is anticipated that the study would shed light on whether Picralima nitida fruit extract inhibits α-glucosidase to produce antihyperglycemic effects. It may also help develop safer plant-based medicines for the treatment of diabetes.