DEPARTMENT OF MEDICAL LABORATORY SCIENCE

Icacina trichantha is a medicinal plant traditionally used in West Africa for its hematinic and immunomodulatory properties. The study is aimed to evaluate the effect of aqueous leaf extract of Icacina trichantha on the expression of the High-Mobility Group Box-1 (HMGB-1) gene in Wistar rats with aluminum chloride–induced anaemia. Sixty (60) adult male Wistar rats were divided into six (6) groups: Group A (Control), Group B (AlCl₃ only), Group C (AlCl₃ + 40 mg/kg ferrous sulphate), and Groups D, E, and F (AlCl₃ + 100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, and 400 mg/kg I. trichantha extract, respectively). Blood samples were analyzed for white blood cell parameters using an ERMA haematology autoanalyzer, and HMGB1 mRNA expression was determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with GAPDH as the internal control. Total WBC count was highest in Group B (7.5 ± 0.91) and lowest in Group C (4.92 ± 0.51), with extract-treated groups showing intermediate values (6.28 ± 0.46, 5.88 ± 1.17, and 5.98 ± 0.57 for Groups D, E, and F, respectively), though differences were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Lymphocyte, MID, and granulocyte percentages showed mild variations across groups but without statistical significance. Significant weight gain was observed in Groups D, E, and F at day 28 compared to day 0 (p < 0.05). HMGB1 mRNA expression was significantly elevated in Groups C, D, and E compared to Groups A and B (p < 0.05), indicating activation of immune-related molecular pathways. In conclusion, while I. trichantha did not significantly alter WBC indices in AlCl₃-induced anaemia, its administration was associated with notable upregulation of HMGB1 expression and improved body weight, suggesting potential modulatory and restorative effects that warrant further mechanistic studies.

When Women gets pregnant, it induces profound metabolic changes, particularly in lipid metabolism, to support maternal adaptation and fetal growth. While these alterations are physiological, excessive deviations may predispose women to cardiovascular complications such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes. The Atherogenic Index of Plasma (AIP), derived from triglyceride and HDL-C levels, has emerged as a useful biomarker for evaluating cardiovascular risk during pregnancy. This study aimed to evaluate the Atherogenic Index of Plasma (AIP) and lipid profile variations among pregnant women across the three trimesters in Benin City, Nigeria, in order to assess trimester-specific cardiovascular risk patterns. A cross-sectional descriptive design was employed involving pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in Benin City, blood samples were collected and analyzed for total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) using standardized enzymatic colorimetric methods. The AIP was calculated as log(TG/HDL-C). Data were analyzed using ANOVA, correlation, and regression models, with significance set at p < 0.05. The study population was predominantly aged 20–34 years (79%), with most in the third trimester (47%). Pregnant women showed significantly higher BMI and LDL-C compared to non-pregnant controls (p < 0.001). Triglycerides increased progressively from the first trimester (103.52 ± 8.74 mg/dL) to the third (140.04 ± 5.22 mg/dL, p = 0.003). LDL-C peaked in the third trimester (151.36 ± 5.56 mg/dL, p = 0.01), while HDL-C remained relatively stable. The mean AIP rose significantly with gestational age (p = 0.022), with third-trimester values higher than first-trimester values (p = 0.017). AIP correlated strongly and positively with triglycerides across all trimesters (r = 0.76–0.91, p < 0.001), and negatively with HDL-C in late pregnancy (r = – 0.641, p < 0.001). Pregnancy in Benin City is characterized by progressive increases in triglycerides, LDL-C, and AIP, particularly in the third trimester. These findings highlight the need to include lipid and AIP monitoring in antenatal care for early identification of women at risk of adverse outcome.

The growing consumption of processed seasoning, particularly Knorr, has raised scientific concern regarding their potential physiological effects, owing to the inclusion of additives such as monosodium glutamate (MSG), high salt content and synthetic flavor enhancers. This study investigated the effects of Knorr seasoning on Drosophila melanogaster across different concentrations. The flies were allocated into five groups: Group A (control), Group B (0.3 g), Group C (0.15 g), Group D (0.1 g), and Group E (0.05 g). Survival analysis revealed that Knorr seasoning significantly influenced lifespan (p = 0.006). Flies exposed to the highest concentration (0.3 g) exhibited the lowest survival rate by Day 21 (8.3%), whereas those treated with the lowest concentration (0.05 g) maintained a relatively higher survival rate (20.0%) compared to the control group (22.9%). A second setup was made and the flies was divided into five groups with varying concentrations to assess antioxidant enzyme activity. Catalase (CAT) activity showed no significant differences among groups (p = 0.624), while superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity varied significantly (p = 0.012). Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity did not differ significantly across treatment groups (p = 0.984). Overall, the findings demonstrated that Knorr chicken seasoning reduced the survival of Drosophila melanogaster in a concentration-dependent manner, with the greatest reduction observed at 0.3 g. Antioxidant enzyme assays indicated that Knorr seasoning selectively modulated SOD activity, suggesting heightened oxidative stress responses at higher concentrations and reduced activity at intermediate levels, whereas CAT and GPx activities remained largely unaffected. These results emphasize the critical role of dosage in determining whether Knorr seasoning exerts detrimental or potentially adaptive biological effects. Further investigations are warranted to validate these findings and explore the long term health implications of seasoning cube consumption.

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder associated with multiple complications, including increased susceptibility to infections of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV).The coexistence of diabetes and viral hepatitis poses significant clinical risks, potentially accelerating progression to cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and liver-related mortality. This study investigated the prevalence of HBV and HCV infections among diabetic patients attending the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin City, Nigeria. A hospital-based crosssectional design was employed, involving 200 diabetic patients recruited through purposive sampling. Venous blood samples were aseptically collected from each participants and spun at 3,000 rpm. The serum samples obtained were each screened for HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) and HCV antibodies using rapid chromatographic immunoassays with high sensitivity and specificity. Data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and multivariate logistic regression. The overall prevalence of HBV infection was 2.0%, (P>0.023) while no HCV infection was detected. HBV prevalence showed no statistically significant association with demographic or clinical variables, though bivariate analysis suggested possible links with duration of diabetes, intravenous drug use, and invasive practices. The absence of HCV infection may reflect regional variability or low transmission risk in this population. Findings highlight a relatively low HBV prevalence compared to national estimates but underscore the need for routine hepatitis screening among diabetic patients, considering their increased vulnerability to chronic liver disease. Strengthening public health strategies through awareness, vaccination, and integration of viral hepatitis screening into diabetes care is recommended to reduce morbidity and mortality in this high-risk group.

Plasmodium berghei, a rodent malaria parasite, is widely utilized in experimental models to investigate malaria-induced pathology. This study evaluated the histopathological effects of graded parasitemia on cardiac tissues of albino rats. Sixteen (n = 16) adult female albino rats weighing 130–174 g were randomly assigned into four groups (n = 4 per group): a control group (uninfected) and three treatment groups inoculated intraperitoneally with low (~1 × 10²), medium (~1 × 10⁴), and high (~1 × 10⁶) concentrations of parasitized red blood cells (iRBCs). The animals were housed under standard conditions at the University of Benin Histopathology Laboratory and observed for 42 days. At the end of the study, hearts were harvested, fixed in 10% neutral buffered formalin, processed, and stained with hematoxylin and eosin for histopathological analysis. The results showed that across all treatment groups, cardiac myocytes retained normal histological features, including peripherally placed nuclei, abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm, striated fibers, and intact intercalated discs. No evidence of necrosis, vacuolation, fibrosis, or inflammatory cell infiltration was observed in the myocardium. Morphometric analysis of body and organ weights revealed no significant differences in initial weight (p = 0.706), final weight (p = 0.553), or heart weight (p = 0.939) between groups. These findings suggest that P. berghei infection, within the experimental timeframe and across the administered parasite concentrations, does not produce overt histopathological or morphometric alterations in the cardiac tissue of Wistar rats. Further studies incorporating molecular and functional assessments are recommended to explore potential subclinical or biochemical cardiac effects of malaria parasitemia

Parasitic diseases are problems wherever poultry are raised whether in large commercial operations or in small backyard flocks, and economic losses caused by parasites on poultry can be significant. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of intestinal parasites in poultry, focusing on chickens and turkeys slaughtered in Benin City, Southern Nigeria. A total of 150 fecal samples were analyzed, comprising samples from 35 broilers, 30 native fowls, 35 layers, and 50 turkeys. The fecal samples was processed using standard Parasitological techniques, and then viewed microscopically. Prevalence rates varied significantly among the different bird species, with the highest total prevalence observed in Native fowls (143.3%), followed by Broilers (60.0%), Layers C(54.3%), and Turkeys (40.0%). Notably, Ascaridia galli was the most prevalent parasite overall (60.4%), with the highest prevalence in native fowls (63.3%). The study also found significant geographical variations in parasite prevalence. In broilers, Ascaridia galli prevalence was significantly different across the LGAs (p=0.045), with the highest rate in Ikpoba-Okha (33.3%). Similarly, in native fowls, Strongyloides avium showed a significant difference (p=0.003), with a high prevalence of 60.0% in Ikpoba-Okha. In turkeys, the prevalence of Ascaridia galli varied significantly across the LGAs (p=0.043). The findings highlight that poultry in the study area are widely infected with gastrointestinal parasites, emphasizing the need for targeted management strategies and regular treatment to mitigate infection risks

Herbal mixtures are widely consumed in many developing countries due to their perceived therapeutic benefits, affordability, and accessibility. However, poor preparation and storage practices increase the risk of microbial contamination. This study aims to isolate and identify the microorganisms present in selected herbal mixtures sold at Uselu, New Benin and Ring Road Market in Benin City, Edo state. A cross-sectional analysis was conducted on herbal preparations collected from the three major markets. Microbiological assessment was performed to determine bacterial load and isolate species. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was carried out using standard disc diffusion techniques, and statistical analyses were applied to evaluate differences across dosage forms and locations. The overall mean bacterial load was 7.92 × 10⁷ CFU/ml. Powdered forms exhibited the highest mean load (1.33 × 10⁸ CFU/ml), followed by liquid forms (6.53 × 10⁷ CFU/ml), while paste formulations showed no detectable growth. Variations across dosage forms (p = 0.331) and market locations (p > 0.05) were not statistically significant. Bacillus subtilis was the most prevalent isolate (8 occurrences), followed by Klebsiella spp. (3), Bacillus cereus (2), and Staphylococcus aureus (2), with Pseudomonas aeruginosa identified once. Antibiotic susceptibility revealed complete sensitivity to Azithromycin and Levofloxacin (100%) and high sensitivity to Pefloxacin (76.5%). Moderate sensitivity was recorded for Gentamycin, Rifampicin, and Erythromycin (52.9%), while reduced activity was observed for Zidovudine (29.4%) and
Ampicillin (41.2%). Amoxicillin showed the lowest effectiveness, with resistance in 82.4% of isolates, confirmed by its minimal inhibition zone (4.41 ± 2.38 mm). The strongest inhibition zones were produced by Levofloxacin (19.06 ± 1.32 mm) and Azithromycin (16.94 ± 1.68 mm). In Conclusion, Locally marketed herbal mixtures in Benin City were found to harbor diverse bacterial contaminants, predominantly Bacillus subtilis. Although no significant differences were observed across dosage forms or market locations, the presence of pathogenic bacteria and high resistance to commonly used antibiotics such as Amoxicillin emphasizes it’s potential health risks.

Spondias mombin, a tropical medicinal plant, is widely employed in ethnomedicine, yet its safety profile on vital organs remains insufficiently defined. This study investigated the histopathological and biochemical effects of graded doses of Spondias mombin root extract on the liver and kidney of Wistar rats. Twenty-four male albino rats (150–200 g) were divided into
six groups (n = 4): a control group and five groups administered 200, 400, 600, 800, and 1000 mg/kg of the extract orally for 28 days. Serum electrolytes, urea, creatinine, and liver enzymes (AST, ALT, ALP) were analyzed using standard biochemical methods, while hematoxylin and eosin staining was employed for histological assessment of liver and kidney tissues. Body
weight, organ weight, and tissue integrity were evaluated to determine systemic effects. The results showed significant variation in body weight across groups (p < 0.05), with the highest gain at 800 mg/kg and the lowest at 200 mg/kg, though organ weights did not differ significantly (p > 0.05). Biochemical parameters remained largely stable across all doses, except for a significant reduction in serum creatinine at 1000 mg/kg (p = 0.006). Histological examination revealed normal hepatic and renal architecture up to 600 mg/kg, while higher doses (800–1000 mg/kg) showed hepatic ballooning degeneration and microvesicular steatosis, with kidneys appearing normal in all groups. These findings suggest that S. mombin root extract is relatively safe at low to moderate doses but may cause dose-dependent hepatic steatosis at higher concentrations. Further chronic toxicity and mechanistic studies are recommended to establish safe therapeutic limits and identify the bioactive compounds mediating both protective and toxic hepatic effects.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a growing public health burden in Nigeria, largely driven by insulin resistance. The triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index has emerged as a simple, reliable surrogate marker for insulin resistance, but evidence from Nigerian populations remains limited. This case–control study evaluated the TyG index in 100 adults (50 T2DM patients and 50 non- diabetic controls) recruited from healthcare facilities in Benin City. Fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, and body mass index (BMI) were measured using standard procedures, and the TyG index was calculated, compared between groups, and correlated with demographic and clinical variables. The mean TyG index was significantly higher in T2DM subjects (9.24 ± 0.06) compared with controls (8.62 ± 0.02; p < 0.001). Overall, 79% of participants were classified into moderate-to-extreme TyG risk categories, predominantly among diabetic subjects. Within the T2DM group, the TyG index correlated strongly with fasting blood glucose (r = 0.734, p < 0.001), moderately with triglycerides (r = 0.455, p = 0.001), and weakly with BMI (r = 0.218, p = 0.029). Significant positive correlations were also observed with age (r = 0.486, p < 0.001) and presence of complications (r = 0.423, p = 0.002), whereas no associations were found with sex, family history, or duration of diabetes. The study concludes that the TyG index is significantly elevated in T2DM patients in Benin City and correlates with age, glycemic status, and complications, underscoring its potential as a low-cost, clinically meaningful marker of insulin resistance and metabolic risk in resource-limited settings.

Intestinal parasitic infections are a major public health concern in tropical regions, where
accurate diagnosis depends on proper preservation of stool specimens. Fresh samples degrade
quickly, making effective preservatives essential for maintaining parasite morphology.This
study aimed to evaluate and compare the efficacy of three preservatives 10% formalin, sodium acetate–acetic acid–formalin (SAF), and low-viscosity polyvinyl alcohol (LV-PVA)
in preserving intestinal parasites. A total of 20 stool samples were collected and examined
fresh to confirm the presence of parasites. Identified organisms included Trichostrongylus
eggs, Coccidia, Paramphistomum cervi, Trichuris trichiura, and Strongyloides larvae. Each
sample was then divided into three aliquots and preserved separately in the three fixatives. Preserved specimens were re-examined microscopically to assess morphological clarity and
diagnostic suitability over time.Results showed that 10% formalin gave the most consistent
preservation of helminth eggs and larvae. SAF also maintained good morphological integrity
across parasite types and was nearly as effective as formalin, with the added advantage of
being mercury-free and safer to handle. LV-PVA was less reliable for helminths but provided
better detail for protozoan structures, though further research is needed to optimize LV-PVA
for consistent use.