FACULTY OF LIFE SCIENCE

This study was carried out to determine the prevalence of trematode parasite infection in Pila ovata from Iguobo community, Ovia North-East LGA, Edo State, Nigeria. The snail specimens were collected by hand picking from water puddles within farmlands in Iguobo Community in July, 2025. Sixty-six snails species Pila ovata, belonging to the Family Ampullariidae, were examined and only one was found to be infected with trematode larval stages with an overall prevalence of 1.52%. The larval stages of trematodes recovered from the infected snail include rediae, cercariae, metacercariae, and a juvenile trematode. Two types of cercariae were identified namely, gymnocephalous and cercariaeum cercariae. The low prevalence of trematode infection recorded in this study could be attributed to minimal anthropogenic activities in the study area, which likely reduced water contamination. It could also be due to the short period of survey and timing. The study was conducted during wet season; which probably reduced the infection rate due to dilution factor. Although, Pila ovata showed low prevalence of trematode infection in this study, it however, exhibited high parasite diversity due to the presence of different larval stages and trematode recovered from the infected snail. This study reports Cercariaeum and gymnocephalous cercariae in P. ovata from Nigeria for the first time. Further investigation should be conducted on Pila ovata to ascertain the species status of trematode cercariae infecting this snail.

The potential public health risk associated with ready-to-eat (RTE) fruits sold in open markets was investigated through a microbiological assessment of three popular fruits: Apple, Pineapple, and Watermelon. A total of three samples were purchased from a market in Benin City and analyzed using standard microbiological techniques, including serial dilution, plating on selective media, and biochemical analysis. The mean total bacterial count was highest in Pineapple and lowest in Apple, while the mean total fungi count was highest in Apple and lowest in Watermelon. Bacterial isolates included Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus spp, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter. Fungal isolates included Aspergillus niger, Yeasts, Penicillium species, and Mucor. Antibiotic susceptibility testing revealed isolates with resistance to multiple drugs, including Rocephin, Pefloxacin, and Ampliclox (for Gram-positive bacteria), while showing susceptibility to agents like Ciprofloxacin, Gentamicin, Levofloxacin, Ofloxacin, and Amoxicillin. The presence of these pathogenic and opportunistic micro-organisms confirms the contamination of the RTE fruits, which poses a significant public health hazard. This poor microbiological quality is likely due to unhygienic preparation environments, contaminated water, improper handling, and environmental exposure. Regulatory bodies must enhance surveillance, and vendors should strictly adhere to safe food handling practices. Consumers are advised to ensure proper washing of fruits before consumption.

The liver is a vital organ responsible for detoxification, metabolism, and synthesis of essential biomolecules, but its exposure to toxicants such as carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) often results in severe hepatic damage. This study investigated the ameliorative potential of Entandrophragma utile stem bark extracts on selected liver enzymes in CCl₄-intoxicated Wistar rats. Fresh stem bark of E. utile was collected, air-dried, and extracted using methanol, after which the crude extract was fractionated into ethyl acetate and ethanol residue fractions. Thirty male Wistar rats were divided into six groups of five animals each: normal control, CCl₄ control, silymarin treated, and groups treated with crude, ethyl acetate, and ethanol residue fractions of E. utile. The extracts were administered orally for 28 days, while CCl₄ was given intraperitoneally in the final week to induce hepatotoxicity. Blood samples were analyzed for alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) activities using standard colorimetric methods. Results revealed that CCl₄ intoxication caused significant elevation in all liver enzyme markers compared with the control, indicating hepatic injury, whereas treatment with E. utile extracts markedly reduced these enzyme levels in a manner comparable to the standard drug, silymarin. The ethyl acetate fraction exhibited the most pronounced hepatoprotective effect, suggesting the presence of potent antioxidant constituents capable of mitigating oxidative stress and restoring normal liver function. In conclusion, Entandrophragma utile possesses significant hepatoprotective properties against CCl₄-induced liver damage, validating its traditional use in managing hepatic disorders and indicating its promise as a natural source of therapeutic agent

This study evaluates the antioxidant and toxicity profiles of Alstonia boonei aqueous root extract in Wistar rats, a plant widely used in African traditional medicine for its therapeutic properties. Despite its extensive traditional use, limited scientific data exist on its biochemical effects and potential toxicity. This study aims to assess the antioxidant activity and safety profile of Alstonia
boonei to validate its pharmacological relevance. Fourteen Wistar rats were assigned to three groups : a control group and four treatment groups receiving varying doses (100, 250, and 500 mg/kg) of Alstonia boonei root extract for 21 days. Biochemical assays assessed glutathione (GSH), vitamin C levels, total protein concentration, and organ weights. Acute and subacute toxicity studies were conducted, and statistical significance was determined using one-way ANOVA (p ≤ 0.05). No mortality or observable toxicity symptoms were recorded, confirming the extract’s safety at doses up to 5000 mg/kg. A dose-dependent increase in total protein concentration was observed in the liver, reaching 2.60 ± 0.13 g/dL in the 100 mg/kg group (p ≤ 0.05), suggesting enhanced protein synthesis. However, GSH levels declined significantly in the liver from 124.59 ± 2.62 µg/mL (control) to 23.77 ± 0.82 µg/mL (100 mg/kg), indicating a potential transient depletion of antioxidant reserves. Vitamin C levels showed a compensatory increase, peaking at 76.62 ± 27.27 µg/mL in the liver of the 500 mg/kg group. The findings suggest that Alstonia boonei root extract exhibits strong antioxidant potential while maintaining a favorable safety profile. However, the observed depletion of GSH highlights the need for caution in prolonged use. Future research should explore long-term effects, optimal dosage, and molecular mechanisms to ensure its safe application in medicine.

Phosphatase enzyme activities were investigated in plantain (Musa paradisiacal) bracts to determine the activities of ALP and ACP. Fresh bracts were collected and analyzed for both acid phosphatase (ACP) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities using p-nitrophenyl phosphate as substrate. The study revealed that alkaline phosphatase activity was significantly higher than acid phosphatase activity in plantain bracts, with mean values of 0.265 ± 0 µmol/min/g fresh weight and 0.253 ± 0.008 µmol/min/g fresh weight, respectively. Maximum ACP activity was observed at pH 3.5, while ALP showed optimal activity at pH 9.5. Temperature optimization studies indicated peak activities at 45°C for ACP and 40°C for ALP. Mg2+ was used as a modulator and results gotten showed than it was a positive modulator for both ALP and ACP as their activity increased, While Pi was shown to inhibit the activities of both Enzymes. The presence of these phosphatases, particularly the predominant acid phosphatase, indicates their crucial role in phosphate metabolism during bract development and senescence. These findings provide valuable insights into the biochemical processes occurring in plantain bracts and may contribute to understanding the physiological changes during plantain flower development.

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways characterized by recurring episodes of wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of asthma. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Synclisia Scabrida (Meirs) on reduced glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in lungs tissue of wistar rats with ovalbumin-induced asthma. Twenty (20) female wistar rats were divided into three subgroups and treated with ovalbumin-induced asthma for three weeks (21 days) followed by administration of Synclisia Scabrida (Meirs) at 0.4ml daily. The result showed that the extract significantly increased Glutathione (GSH) levels and decreased Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the lung tissue of treated rats compared to control groups. These findings suggests that Synclisia Scabrida (Meirs) has antioxidant properties and may be a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of asthma. The study provides new insights into the role of oxidative stress in asthma and potential benefits of using natural products in the management of the disease.

This study examines how the decline of vegetation has affected rainfall patterns in Abuja, Nigeria, between 2015 and 2024. Using Sentinel-2 satellite imagery and CHIRPS rainfall data, the research analyzed land use and rainfall changes over time through Google Earth Engine and ArcGIS. Findings revealed a major shift in Abuja’s landscape during the study period. Tree cover, which accounted for about 71.81% of the area in 2015, declined sharply to 23.71% by 2024, while built-up and farmland areas expanded significantly due to rapid urban growth. Rainfall trends also became more irregular, showing a noticeable decrease after 2018. Statistical analysis indicated a strong negative relationship (r = -0.76) between vegetation cover and rainfall, suggesting that as green spaces declined, rainfall reduced correspondingly. This loss of vegetation has weakened natural cooling and moisture recycling processes, contributing to hotter and drier conditions across the city. The findings show that the conversion of natural green areas into concrete surfaces has disrupted Abuja’s local hydrological balance and may be influencing recent changes in rainfall distribution. The study concludes that protecting and restoring green spaces is essential for improving rainfall stability and climate resilience. It recommends the implementation of sustainable urban planning strategies, reforestation initiatives, and stronger environmental policies to restore ecological balance and promote a healthier urban environment in Abuja.

Water quality remains a critical public health concern, particularly in rapidly urbanizing regions like Benin City, Nigeria. This study assessed the physicochemical properties, essential minerals, and potential contaminants in five bottled water brands (EVA, CWAY,
AQUAFINA, EIO, and ROI) to evaluate their safety and compliance with regulatory standards. Water samples were collected from different retail outlets in Benin City and analyzed for parameters such as pH, conductivity, total dissolved solids (TDS), turbidity,
hardness, chloride, sulphate, nitrate, and trace metals using standard laboratory procedures. The results showed significant variations across brands. EIO had the highest pH (7.37 ± 0.19), while ROI had the lowest (6.63 ± 0.11). Conductivity and TDS were highest in EIO (41.33 ± 1.16 µS/cm and 20.67 ± 0.58 mg/L, respectively) and lowest in ROI (12.00 ± 2.00 µS/cm and 6.00 ± 1.00 mg/L, respectively). Hardness levels were within the WHO recommended limits, with CWAY showing the highest value (22.00 ± 2.00 mg/L). Trace metal analysis revealed that ROI had the highest levels of iron (0.12 ± 0.01 mg/L), zinc (0.27 ± 0.05 mg/L), manganese (0.48 ± 0.07 mg/L), and copper (0.52 ± 0.09 mg/L), suggesting possible contamination from natural sources or packaging materials. While most bottled water samples met regulatory standards, ROI exhibited elevated levels of turbidity, suspended solids, and trace metals, indicating potential filtration inefficiencies. These findings emphasize the need for stricter regulatory monitoring and quality control measures to ensure the safety of bottled water in Benin City.

Hypertension and diabetes mellitus frequently coexist, significantly increasing cardiovascular disease risk due to dyslipidemia, oxidative stress, and endothelial dysfunction. This study investigates the impact of co-administering losartan/metformin (L/M) and losartan/glibenclamide (L/D) on plasma and cardiac lipid profiles in L-NAME/streptozotocin (STZ)-induced hypertensive/diabetic male Wistar rats, with a focus on total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL-cholesterol, and LDL-cholesterol. Fifty-two male Wistar rats (50–80 g) were housed under standard laboratory conditions and acclimatized for two weeks. Hypertension was induced by administering L-NAME (40 mg/kg) in drinking water for four weeks, while diabetes was induced via a single intraperitoneal injection of STZ (50 mg/kg). Successful induction was confirmed by systolic blood pressure measurement (tail-cuff method) and fasting blood glucose levels >200 mg/dL. The rats were divided into six groups (n=6 per group): control, untreated, diabetic treated with L/M, and diabetic treated with L/D. Drug administration was conducted orally for 28 days. At the end of the treatment period, rats were sacrificed via cervical dislocation. Blood samples were collected via cardiac puncture into EDTA-coated tubes, centrifuged at 3,000 rpm for 10 minutes, and plasma was stored at −20°C for lipid profile analysis. Cardiac tissues were excised, homogenized in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), and centrifuged to obtain supernatants for further analysis. Plasma and cardiac total cholesterol levels did not significantly differ between groups (p > 0.05). The hypertensive/diabetic group exhibited reduced HDL-cholesterol (85.0 ± 19.2 mg/dL) compared to the normotensive/non-diabetic control (110.8 ± 2.1 mg/dL). Treatment with L/D showed the highest HDL levels (2.87 ± 2.71 mg/dL), suggesting a possible beneficial effect of glibenclamide on HDL metabolism. Triglyceride levels varied significantly (p < 0.05), with hypertensive/diabetic rats showing elevated plasma (160.0 ± 27.2 mg/dL) and cardiac (27.92 ± 12.55 mg/dL) triglycerides compared to controls. L/M treatment reduced plasma triglycerides to 145.2 ± 17.7 mg/dL, while L/D increased them to 180.3 ± 51.0 mg/dL, suggesting metformin’s superior role in mitigating hypertriglyceridemia. Plasma LDL-cholesterol levels remained unchanged across all groups (p > 0.05), indicating limited effects of these drug regimens on LDL metabolism. This study highlights the differential impact of losartan/metformin and losartan/glibenclamide co-administration on lipid metabolism in hypertensive/diabetic rats. These findings contribute to optimizing therapeutic strategies for managing dyslipidemia in comorbid hypertension and diabetes

Background: Street-vended foods are a crucial and affordable source of nutrition for millions globally, particularly in developing urban areas. However, poor hygiene practices during preparation, handling, and storage pose significant public health risks. This study investigated the antibiotic resistance patterns and phenotypic virulence characteristics of bacterial pathogens isolated from various street-vended foods.Methods: A total of [Number, e.g., 150] street-vended food samples (including [list types of food, e.g., ready-to-eat meats, salads, rice dishes]) were randomly collected from [Location/City]. Bacterial isolation and identification were performed using standard microbiological and biochemical techniques. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was conducted using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method against [Number] commonly prescribed antibiotics. Phenotypic virulence traits, including hemolysin production, biofilm formation, capsule production, and motility, were evaluated using specialized agar media and assays.Results: The predominant bacterial isolates identified were [e.g., Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella spp.]. Antibiotic susceptibility profiling revealed alarming rates of resistance, particularly toward [Name 1-2 antibiotics, e.g., ampicillin and tetracycline], with [Percentage]% of the isolates classified as multidrug-resistant (MDR). Phenotypic characterization demonstrated high virulence potential among the isolates: [Percentage]% exhibited $\beta$-hemolytic activity, [Percentage]% were proficient biofilm formers, and [Percentage]% demonstrated active motility. A strong correlation was observed between biofilm-forming capabilities and resistance to critical-line antibiotics. Conclusion: The findings underscore that street-vended foods in [Location] serve as major reservoirs for virulent, multidrug-resistant bacteria. The coexistence of high phenotypic virulence and extensive antibiotic resistance among these isolates presents a severe threat to consumer safety and public health. There is an urgent need for stricter enforcement of food safety regulations, routine microbiological surveillance, and comprehensive hygiene training for food vendors to mitigate the risk of foodborne outbreaks.