Department of Medical Laboratory Science

With a heart full of gratitude, I first give all glory and thanks to GOD ALMIGHTY for His unfailing love, guidance, and provision, which has carried me through every stage of this project. I am deeply grateful to my supervisor, DR. AUSTIN IROGHAMA ARHOMAREN, whose patience, guidance, and encouragement were instrumental to the success of this work. My heartfelt appreciation also goes to my Head of Department, DR. (MRS.) ZAINAB OMORUYI, for her motherly leadership and constant encouragement. I remain thankful to all my lecturers PROF. OSIME, DR. MRS. OBAZELU, DR. MRS. OTIKOR, MR.UZAMERE, DR. OSAKWE, DR. ERHABOR, and DR. MRS. OTUTU and others for their dedication, teachings, and the wealth of knowledge they have imparted in me. To my beloved parents, MR. AND MRS. FRIDAY OSHODIN, I owe special thanks for their sacrifices, prayers, and unwavering support. I am equally grateful to my siblings JOY, RUTH, EFOSA, BLESSING, AIMUA , for their love, encouragement, and constant belief in me. I also appreciate the prayers, fellowship, and spiritual covering of my place of worship, CHRIST IMPACT ASSEMBLY, which has been a pillar of strength to me all through my journey so far. Finally, my warmest appreciation goes to my dear friends DIVINE, ABEL, FAVOUR, ELIZABETH, JESSICA and my senior colleague, MICHEAL, for their encouragement, support, and friendship all through this journey.

Ischemic heart disease (IHD) is a major cardiovascular disorder characterized by dyslipidemia and myocardial injury, and its risk may be increased in females using oral contraceptives (OCs) due to alterations in lipid metabolism and endothelial function. Garlic (Allium sativum) has been reported to possess cardioprotective properties, including lipid modulation and antioxidant effects. This study evaluated the therapeutic potential of garlic (Allium sativum) extract in ameliorating biochemical markers of ischemic heart disease in female Wistar rats exposed to varying doses of combined oral contraceptives (COCs). A total of fifty-six adult female rats were randomly assigned into seven groups comprising a control group, COC-only group, COC plus graded doses of garlic extract groups, and a garlic-only group, and treatments were administered orally for four weeks. Serum lipid profile parameters; total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) were determined using enzymatic colorimetric methods, while cardiac troponin I levels were quantified using sandwich ELISA. Data were expressed as mean ± standard error of mean (SEM) and analyzed by one-way ANOVA (p < 0.05). Total cholesterol levels were not significantly different across groups (Control: 3.75 ± 0.12 mmol/L; Group B: 3.68 ± 0.10 mmol/L; Group C: 3.72 ± 0.11 mmol/L; Group F: 3.80 ± 0.13 mmol/L). Triglyceride levels varied significantly (Control: 1.45 ± 0.05 mmol/L; Group B: 1.20 ± 0.04 mmol/L; Group C: 1.38 ± 0.06 mmol/L; Group F: 1.78 ± 0.07 mmol/L). HDL levels were significantly increased in lower-dose groups (Control: 0.98 ± 0.03 mmol/L; Group B: 1.25 ± 0.05 mmol/L; Group C: 1.22 ± 0.04 mmol/L), while LDL levels were significantly reduced in these groups (Control: 1.90 ± 0.06 mmol/L; Group B: 1.50 ± 0.05 mmol/L; Group C: 1.55 ± 0.07 mmol/L). Cardiac troponin I levels showed no statistically significant differences among groups(Control: 0.330 ± 0.012 ng/mL; Group B: 0.315 ± 0.010 ng/mL; Group C: 0.305 ± 0.009 ng/mL; Group F: 0.345 ± 0.013 ng/mL). Body weight remained stable across all groups, indicating good tolerability of treatments. Histological examination of the heart, liver, and kidney revealed normal tissue architecture in all examined groups, with no observable pathological lesions. In conclusion, garlic extract demonstrated a modest protective effect on lipid metabolism, particularly at lower COC doses, without evidence of organ toxicity, may have a potential supportive role in mitigating cardiovascular risk associated with oral contraceptive use.

Male infertility is a prevalent and distressing condition affecting millions of couples globally, with significant psychosocial consequences. While conventional semen analysis, particularly sperm count, remains the cornerstone of male fertility evaluation, it frequently fails to fully explain reduced fertility or predict successful conception, especially in idiopathic male infertility. The aim of the study was to determine the relationship between seminal plasma creatine kinase (CK) activity and sperm quality indices among males investigated for infertility in Benin City. The seminal plasma CK activity, and semen analysis were evaluated in 75 men investigated for infertility and 50 men with proven fertility using spectrophotometric and microscopic techniques respectively. Chi square, Student –t-test and Pearson correlation coefficient were used compare and correlate the variables. The mean age of men investigated for infertility (40.32 ±1.51)years was not significantly different from the control subjects (41.20 ± 1.20)years (p>0.05). When the age was stratified, a significant difference was observed between the two groups (X2=0.036). Seminal plasma CK activity of men investigated for infertility (756.45 ± 23.7)IU/L was markedly higher (p=0.001) compared with the controls (412.60 ±19.56)IU/L. The sperm count (18.30 ± 11.04 vs 38.18 ± 9.60)x106/ml, volume (2.20 ±0.02 vs 2.75 ±0.06)ml, total motility (14.30 ± 3.10 vs 42.20±2.40)%, viability (18.32 ± 0.20 vs 59.18 ± 2.5)%, progressive motility (11.60 ±2.20 vs 34.22 ±2.60)% were markedly lower in men investigated infertility compared with controls. Conversely, the abnormal morphology (27.89 ±1.50 vs 7.30±2.50)% was markedly higher in infertile men than controls. Sperm count, total motility, viability and progressive motility correlated negatively with CK, while abnormal morphology correlated positively with creatine kinase activity (p<0.05). High CK activity suggests poor sperm quality among men with infertility.

The World Health Organization reported that over 186 million couples in developed countries suffered from infertility a condition that is more worrisome in the so-called infertility belt of sub- Saharan Africa and about 40-50 % of the problem is attributed to men. Long Jack XXXL Sperm Enhancer an herbal supplement containing long jack (Eurycoma longifolia) commonly referred to as Tongkat Ali, siberian ginseng, maca extract, fenugreek extract and horny goat weed. It has been revered for its aphrodisiac and fertility-enhancing properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Long Jack sperm enhancer supplementation on the sperm quality and quantity in male Wistar rats. The rats were grouped into five and administered varying concentration of Long Jack XXXL excluding the control group for 28 days. Group 1 was given commercial rat feed and water, group 2 received 10 mg/kg Long Jack dissolved in 2 mL distilled water, group 3 received 20 mg/kg Long Jack dissolved in 2 mL distilled water, group 4 received 40 mg/kg Long Jack dissolved in 2 mL distilled water and group 5 received 80 mg/kg Long Jack dissolved in 2 mL distilled water orally by gavage. On day 29 the rats were sacrificed and the caudal epididymis was excised for semen analysis. The Sperm count increased from the control group 1(8.57±2.0), to 9.6±1.9 group 2, to 9.2±2.5 (group 3), to 9.9±2.2 (group 4), to 10.1±1.2 (group 5). The differences in the means were however not statistically significant (p>0.5) when compared with control. There was no difference in the mean progressive motility, non- progressive motility, immotile form, normal morphology and abnormal morphology when compared with control. Long Jack sperm enhancer did not significantly increase sperm quantity and quantity of male Wistar rat.

Pericardial adipose tissues are combined fats from pericardial sac and surrounding external surfaces of the pericardium. Excess deposits often lead to cardiovascular disorders and other heart related diseases. There are claims that an herbal decoction called Aju Mbaise (a combination of medicinal plants wrapped as a combo pack) can be used to treat heart related diseases including obesity which affects many people world-wide. Despite the existing information on Aju Mbaise and its healing claims, there is paucity of scientific data on the effects on pericardial adipose tissues. Therefore, this study was to examine histopathology changes in pericardial adipose tissues of lard-palm kernel cake (L-PKC) diet-fed rats treated with Aju Mbaise herbal decoction. The specific objectives were to investigate the effects of the present herbal decoction on body weight, adiposity indices and lipid profile of experimental rats. Samples of fresh L-PKC were obtained from Uselu market, Benin City while Aju Mbaise was purchased online. Each component was identified and authenticated by an expert taxonomist in the University while voucher numbers were issued for each constituent. Sixteen (16) Sprague-Dawley rats of both sexes, weighing (149-175g) were obtained from a research animal farm in Benin City. Animals acclimatized for 2weeks in Anatomy department University of Benin with ambient temperature (26±3°C), humidity (50% - 60%) and photoperiodicity (12:12hr). They were kept in clean steel gauzed cages and c conut husks used as beddings in a light and humid environment. Rats were fed on standard pellets and water provided adequately.

Annona muricata (soursop) is a tropical plant widely used in traditional medicine for various ailments, yet comprehensive safety data on its effects on vital organs remain limited. This research aimed to investigate the histopathological effects of Annona muricata leaf extract on liver, kidney, testis, and ovaries of albino rats. Twenty-four healthy albino rats weighing 180- 200g were procured from the Animal House of the Department of Anatomy, University of Benin, and maintained under standard conditions with unrestricted access to feed and water. The rats were divided into four groups: Group A (control, n=2) received pelleted feed and distilled water; Group B (n=4) was administered 250mg/kg soursop extract; Group C (n=4) received 500mg/kg; and Group D (n=4) was given 1000mg/kg extract orally via gavage for one month. Following treatment, animals were euthanized, blood samples collected for biochemical analysis, and organs harvested for histopathological examination. Results revealed no significant changes in hematological parameters, liver function tests, or reproductive hormone levels across all groups (p > 0.05). However, kidney function analysis showed significant elevation in sodium (143±3.8 mEq/L) and chloride (107.3±0.5 mEq/L) levels in the highest dose group compared to controls (p < 0.05). Histopathological examination revealed normal architecture in the control group organs. Groups B and C exhibited hepatic steatosis with microvacuolar degeneration, while Group D maintained normal liver histology. All kidney, testis, and ovary sections demonstrated preserved normal architecture across treatment groups. The findings suggest that Annona muricata leaf extract exhibits a complex dose-response relationship, with intermediate doses causing hepatic steatosis while higher doses appear protective. The preservation of reproductive organ integrate and absence of significant biochemical toxicity support the traditional use of soursop, though careful dose optimization and electrolyte monitoring are recommended for therapeutic applications.

Urinary tract pathogens are increasingly resistant to conventional antibiotics, prompting interest in plant-derived bioactive agents. This study evaluated the phytochemical profile and antibacterial potential of Cinnamomum tamala bark extracts against selected clinical isolates. Dried bark samples were subjected to aqueous and ethanolic extraction, followed by phytochemical screening using GC–MS analysis. Antimicrobial activity was carried out using ditch plate and agar well diffusion methods, while minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values were determined via agar dilution techniques. The ethanolic extract demonstrated concentration-dependent inhibition, with zones of inhibition ranging from 8.25 ± 4.8 mm at 50 µg/mL to 21.75 ± 2.93 mm at 800 µg/mL, showing significant differences across concentrations (p = 0.034). The aqueous extract exhibited no effect at low concentrations but was active at higher concentration, producing inhibition zones up to 6.50 ± 3.77 mm, significantly different across groups (p < 0.001). MIC results indicated stronger activity for the ethanolic extract, particularly against E. coli (12.5 µg/mL), compared to the aqueous extract, which required higher concentrations (100–200 µg/mL) across organisms. Similarly, ethanolic MBC values ranged between 25–100 µg/mL, significantly lower than the consistent 200 µg/mL required for the aqueous extract. Phytochemical screening revealed alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, and phenols in both extracts, while saponins and glycosides were exclusive to the aqueous extract, and steroids and resins were unique to the ethanolic extract. GC–MS analysis identified major constituents including Squalene (21.13%), 9- Octadecenoic acid (17.62%), and 13-Octadecenal (16.89%) in the ethanolic extract, while the aqueous extract was dominated by 9-Borabicyclo[3.3.1]nonane (28.24%) and Cyclopropane derivatives (17.04%). These findings highlight the potent antibacterial efficacy of C. tamala ethanolic extract, particularly against E. coli, with activity linked to its terpenoid and fatty acid constituents. The results suggest that C. tamala may serve as a promising source of natural antimicrobials.

The increasing prevalence of microbial contamination in objects such as Point-of-Sale (POS) machines poses significant public health risks, particularly in high traffic areas such as markets, schools, where hygiene practices may be inadequate. This study aimed to evaluate the bacterial and fungal loads on POS machines used by traders across specific markets in Benin City, Edo State to identify the types of microorganisms present, assess their prevalence, and propose measures for reducing contamination. A total of 150 POS machines were sampled within the study area using swab sticks moistened with sterile saline. These swabs of POS surfaces were collected from five different markets: Oba market, New Benin market, Uselu market, Oliha market and Ikpoba hill market. The markets covered three Local Government Area. Microbial
analyses were performed using standard techniques consisting of macroscopy, microscropy, identification and susceptibility testing of isolates present, and type of microbial contamination. The results revealed that a large percentage of the samples (75.3%) showed bacterial contamination where Klebsiella spp. (17.3%) and Staphylococcus aureus (15.3%) were found to be predominant, while fungal contamination was 57.3% of the samples collected, with Candida spp. being the most prevalent with the percentage (38.7%). The study highlighted significant variations in contamination rates across different markets and, indicating that certain markets, such as Ikpoba-hill market, had higher levels of bacterial contamination. The findings underscore the urgent need for improved hygiene practices among traders and regulatory oversight to ensure reduced contamination on these devices thereby reducing the spread of diseases. In conclusion, this research provides critical insights into the microbial quality of POS machines in Benin City and emphasizes the importance of implementing effective and good hygienic practices to protect the health of users.

Syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by Treponema pallidum, remains a significant
public health concern, particularly among mobile occupational groups.This study assessed the
seroprevalence and risk factors associated with syphilis among intra-city transporters in Benin
Metropolis. A cross-sectional descriptive design was adopted, enrolling 150 participants through
convenience sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. About 4ml
of venous blood samples were collected from each participant using sterile aseptic techniques into
plain containers and centrifuged at 3,000 rpm for 5 minutes to obtain serum.The serum obtained
were screened serologically for syphilis antibodies. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27.
An overall Prevalence of 32.0% syphilis was obtained.Age, education, marital status and location
of transporters had no significant association with prevalence of syphilis
(P=0.344),(P=0.884),(P=0.943)and(P=0.217).Behavioral factors such as non condom use,
multiple sexual Partners and self reported symptoms (such as genital sore, painful urination) were
strongest predictors of Syphilis infection in the study population (P=0.000 respectively). More
than half (53.3%) of respondents had never heard of syphilis, and only a few had received health
education.Knowledge was not significantly associated with Syphilis infection having Prevalence
greater than 0.05.The high rate of asymptomatic cases further underscores the hidden burden of
syphilis in this group. The study concludes that intra-city transporters in Benin metropolis are a
high-risk population for syphilis transmission, driven primarily by behavioural and occupational
factors. It recommends targeted health education campaigns, routine and affordable screening at
motor parks, and collaborative interventions between government and transport unions to promote
safer sexual practices.

Annona muricata (soursop) is a tropical plant widely used in traditional medicine for various ailments, yet comprehensive safety data on its effects on vital organs remain limited. This research aimed to investigate the histopathological effects of Annona muricata leaf extract on liver, kidney, testis, and ovaries of albino rats. Twenty-four healthy albino rats weighing 180-200g were procured from the Animal House of the Department of Anatomy, University of Benin, and maintained under standard conditions with unrestricted access to feed and water. The rats were divided into four groups: Group A (control, n=2) received pelleted feed and distilled water; Group B (n=4) was administered 250mg/kg soursop extract; Group C (n=4) received 500mg/kg; and Group D (n=4) was given 1000mg/kg extract orally via gavage for one month. Following treatment, animals were euthanized, blood samples collected for biochemical analysis, and organs harvested for histopathological examination. Results revealed no significant changes in hematological parameters, liver function tests, or reproductive hormone levels across all groups (p > 0.05). However, kidney function analysis showed significant elevation in sodium (143±3.8 mEq/L) and chloride (107.3±0.5 mEq/L) levels in the highest dose group compared to controls (p < 0.05). Histopathological examination revealed normal architecture in the control group organs. Groups B and C exhibited hepatic steatosis with microvacuolar degeneration, while Group D maintained normal liver histology. All kidney, testis, and ovary sections demonstrated preserved normal architecture across treatment groups. The findings suggest that Annona muricata leaf extract exhibits a complex dose-response relationship, with intermediate doses causing hepatic steatosis while higher doses appear protective. The preservation of reproductive organ integrity and absence of significant biochemical toxicity support the traditional use of soursop, though careful dose optimization and electrolyte monitoring are recommended for therapeutic applications