FACULTY OF LIFE SCIENCE

This research examined the toxicological properties of Andrographis paniculata, Curcuma longa and Cinnamomum verum aqueous extracts on the platelet count and aspartate transaminase (AST) activities in male wistar rats. Through the method used by Lorke, thirty-nine rats were placed under the control and treatment groups. There were three rats in the control group and twelve rats in each of the treatment groups. In each treatment group, three rats were administered 10, 100 and 1000 mg/kg of the corresponding plant extract as well as individual rats were administered 1500, 2900, and 5000mg/kg. It was administered over six days, and biochemical and hematological analyses were conducted in order to determine the liver and blood functioning as well as a proximate analysis of the plant composition. The proximate findings revealed that Curcuma longa had the highest carbohydrate and moisture levels, Andrographis paniculata recorded the highest mineral and fibre levels and Cinnamomum verum had the highest protein content. There were no substantial changes in body weight and this showed dose tolerance. There were dose-dependent platelet-level effects: Andrographis paniculata increased thrombopoiesis with dose, Cinnamomum verum induced a small and reversible platelet-depleting effect, and Curcuma longa had no effect on platelet counts. AST activities were normal in all groups with Curcuma longa (1000 mg/kg) having the best hepatoprotective activity in terms of reduced enzyme activity. In general, the acute exposure to the aqueous extracts was hepatotoxic and hematological toxicity-free. Curcuma longa and Andrographis paniculata exhibited significant hepatoprotection and platelet balance respectively. The findings suggest that both of these herbal extracts are biochemically safe in the dose range tested and they justify the safe use as traditional and modern therapeutic agents.

This study was carried out to comparatively assess the effects of chromium (Cr) and lead (Pb), on the growth of two freshwater microalgae (Chlamydomonas reinhardtii and Scenedesmus cronies). The test algae were grown in seven concentrations (0, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 mg/L) which were set up in triplicates. Growth response of the test microalgae was monitored at twoday intervals for 14 days using a visible spectrophotometer (Model No. HV-721. The growth rate, percentage inhibition, and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were computed using Microsoft Excel software. Physicochemical parameters such as hydrogen ion concentration (pH), electrical conductivity total dissolved solid (TDS) were also determined. The results revealed
that growth of both microalgae decreased progressively with increasing concentration with chromium exhibiting greater toxicity than lead. Growth rate analysis favoured Chlamydomonas reinhardtii in both heavy metal treatments. Statistical analysis using ANOVA showed that it was significant (p < 0.05) in growth response among the various concentrations for both species. Conversely, Lead showed negligible inhibitory effects, with final biomass statistically similar to the control across all concentrations. Results of the physico-chemical parameters showed a concentration dependent relationship. pH was noticed to increase in lead-treated cultures but remaining neutral in high-chromium cultures. Despite differential toxicity, both
species showed high biosorption capacity: C. reinhardtii was exceptionally efficient, removing nearly 100% of lead. Based on the findings of this study it can be concluded that Chromium is acutely toxic at the tested range, while Lead is comparatively benign, and that both microalgae, particularly C. reinhardtii for lead, is more suited for the bioremediation of wastewater polluted with lead.

Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) are among the most consumed vegetables in Nigeria and constitute a vital component of human diets due to their high nutritional and economic value. This study investigated the microbial profiles of three tomato varieties: Beefsteak, Globe, and Roma sold in a selected market in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Standard microbiological techniques were employed for the isolation, enumeration and identification of both bacterial and fungal contaminants using Nutrient Agar, MacKonkey Agar, Eosin Methylene Blue (EMB) Agar, and Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA). The total viable bacterial counts varied among varieties, with Beefsteak tomatoes exhibiting the highest total aerobic bacterial count (5.0 ± 0.5×10³), Enteric bacterial count (15.0 ± 0.5×10³) and Coliform bacterial count(7.6 ± 0.5 ×10³) followed by Roma and Globe varieties (4.2 ± 0.5×10³, 9.2 ± 0.5×10³, 6.4 ± 0.5 ×10³) and (4.2 ± 0.5 ×10³, 3.2 ± 0.5×10³, 2.6 ± 0.5 ×10³) respectively. Identified bacterial isolates included Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, while fungal isolates comprised Aspergillus niger, Penicillium expansum, Rhizopus stolonifer, and Fusarium oxysporum. The observed differences in microbial load were attributed to varietal characteristics such as texture, water content, and handling conditions. The results also revealed that poor post-harvest handling, unhygienic market environments, and the use of contaminated wash water contributed significantly to microbial contamination. It is recommended that vendors adopt improved hygiene, proper storage, and temperature control to reduce spoilage and ensure consumer safety.

Street-vended foods provide affordable nutrition for many urban populations but often serve as vehicles for food-borne pathogens capable of causing systemic health effects. This study investigated the effects of pathogens isolated from street-vended foods on the hematological parameters and oxidative stress markers of Wistar rats. Bacteria isolated from street-vended foods were obtained for this study and identified using molecular (polymerase chain reaction) technique. Thereafter, isolates were screened for phenotypic virulence characteristics (biofilm formation, haemolysin and gelatinase production) using standard techniques. Twenty-five wistar rats weighing 169.40g-175.01g were used. Enumeration and isolation of feed samples was done using serial dilution and pour plate techniques. After one week acclimatization, rats were randomly selected into five equal groups (control, W1,W2, X1 and X 2). Rats were experimentally infected with different concentrations (0.06ml and 0.1ml) of Escherichia coli (PX395408) and
Klebsiella pneumoniae (PX395409). After infection, changes in the weight of rats were determined weekly. Following sacrifice, blood and tissue samples were obtained for hematology and histopathological examination. The results revealed that E. coli exhibited β-hemolytic activity, was positive for biofilm formation, and negative for gelatinase production, while K. pnuemoniae showed γ-hemolytic activity and was negative for both biofilm and gelatinase production. The total heterotrophic bacterial counts of feed samples ranged from 5.35±0.07 to 6.90±1.56×10⁵ cfu/g, with isolates including Citrobacter spp and Klebsiella spp. The initial body weight of rats ranged from 169.00 ± 13.90 g to 175.00 ± 10.40 g, while the control group weighed 170.61 ± 4.90 g. After infection, the control rats gained weight steadily (189.35 ± 12.52g), whereas infected rats showed weight reduction, ranging from 125.76 ± 11.95 g to 145.02 ± 28.94 g, indicating systemic infection. Hematological analysis revealed that the control rats maintained normal values except for slightly higher white blood cell counts compared to infected groups. Rats infected with E. coli (0.06 mL) recorded higher red blood cell (RBC) and hemoglobin (HGB) levels than the control, while platelet (PLT) counts significantly increased in K. pneumoniae-infected rats, particularly in the high-dose group (1315±546). Significant differences (p<0.05) were observed in mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) values, while other parameters showed no significant differences (p>0.05). Oxidative stress markers revealed that K. pneumonia infected rats exhibited elevated superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, indicating oxidative damage, whereas catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities were significantly increased in all infected groups. These findings demonstrate that E. coli and K. pnuemoniae from street-vended foods can induce hematological alterations, oxidative stress, and weight loss in Wistar rats, underscoring the need for improved food hygiene and stricter safety regulations.

Urban vegetable cultivation in Benin Metropolis contributes significantly to household nutrition but faces contamination risks from heavy metals. This study assessed heavy metal concentrations in vegetables grown in polluted areas (Ibiwe axis) and less contaminated zones (Oko community). A comparative cross-sectional design was adopted, and samples of Talinum triangulare (water leaf), Ocimum gratissimum (scent leaf), Vernonia amygdalina (bitter leaf) and
Telfairia occidentalis (pumpkin leaf) were collected from dumpsites, mechanic workshops and residential gardens. Following acid digestion, cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) levels were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry. Independent sample t-tests (p < 0.05) showed significantly higher concentrations of Cd, Zn and Ni in vegetables from polluted sites. For instance, Cd in water leaf was 0.017 ± 0.001 mg/kg in
polluted sites compared with 0.004 ± 0.001 mg/kg in cleaner areas, while Zn in scent leaf reached 0.080 ± 0.001 mg/kg against 0.002 ± 0.001 mg/kg. Bitter leaf showed the highest accumulation across all metals, particularly Ni (p = 0.001). Although overall concentrations were below WHO/FAO limits, polluted-site vegetables contained 4–40 times more metals than those from unpolluted zones. These findings highlight that cultivation location strongly influences
metal accumulation and emphasize the need for stricter environmental controls and regular
monitoring to safeguard public health.

This study evaluated the quality of borehole water in rural communities of Benin City, Nigeria, with a focus on protecting vulnerable populations such as children and infants. Water samples were collected from five borehole locations in the Ogbojobu community and analyzed for both biological and physicochemical parameters. Total coliform counts ranged from non- detectable (0 CFU/100 mL) to 1.0 CFU/100 mL, while fecal coliforms were undetectable across all sites, suggesting minimal microbial contamination. Physicochemical analysis revealed that the pH values of the water were slightly acidic, ranging from 5.60 ± 0.00 to 6.63 ± 0.058, which is at or below the WHO permissible range of 6.5–8.5 for drinking water. Other parameters, including conductivity (14.0–60.0 µS/cm), total dissolved solids (8.0–30.0 mg/L), turbidity (0.0– 2.0 NTU), hardness, alkalinity, chloride, phosphate, nitrate, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, manganese, and copper, were measured with significant variations observed between borehole sites (p < 0.05). Notably, lead and cadmium were not detected in any sample. Given that safe drinking water is critical to the health of vulnerable groups, recent studies have emphasized the disproportionate risks heavy metal exposure poses for children and infants. These findings highlight the need for continued monitoring and targeted public health interventions in rural Nigerian communities to safeguard child and infant health from potential chronic exposure to harmful contaminants

The rising global population, expected to surpass 9 billion by 2050, has intensified the need for sustainable animal protein sources. Traditional livestock and aquaculture feeds, such as fishmeal and fish oil, pose ecological and economic challenges, necessitating alternative protein solutions. This study evaluated the potential of Hermetia illucens (Black Soldier Fly Larvae, BSFL) as a sustainable feed alternative by examining the effects of groundnut and watermelon household waste on their growth performance. The experiment utilized three dietary treatments: groundnut, watermelon, and a 1:1 mixture of both. Growth parameters, including weight gain, food conversion ratio (FCR), and proximate compositions were assessed. Results show that larvae fed the mixed diet exhibited the highest weight gain (59.33g) and the most efficient FCR (3.37), compared to groundnut (21.67g, FCR = 9.23) and watermelon (10.67g, FCR = 18.74). Proximate analysis reveals that groundnut provides higher protein (6.88%) and fat (5.67%), while watermelon contributes moisture (33.98%) but lower macronutrient levels. It was found that the mixture of watermelon and groundnut was the best diet for feeding H.illucens larva. The lowest food conversion ratio (3.37) of mixture indicates food utilization efficiency. Proximate analysis disclosed higher value for Fat, Ash, Crude fiber, Protein and Carbohydrate (Ash 0.07, 0.32, 0.56 and 0.81) respectively. In summary, the mixture of watermelon and groundnut is appears to be a better food for raising H.illucens larva.

Estuarine ecosystems in industrial regions like the Niger Delta face increasing threats from pollution, habitat loss, and biological stress, highlighting the need for integrated environmental assessments. This study assessed the ecological and biological integrity of the Ubeji axis of the Warri River, Delta State by combining physicochemical and biological data with multivariate and environmental risk analyses. Sampling was from April to December 2024 and focused on water and sediment quality, heavy metal levels, and biological responses of five Macrobrachium species: M. macrobrachion, M. rosenbergii, M. vollenhovenii, M. equidens, and M. dux. Physicochemical parameters such as Water Temperature, pH, Electric Conductivity were measured in situ while heavy metals were tested for in the Laboratory using standard analytical methods. Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) were used to examine species–environment relationships. Pollution levels and ecological risks were evaluated using Contamination Factor (CF), Geoaccumulation Index (Igeo), Enrichment Factor (EF), Pollution Load Index (PLI), and Potential Ecological Risk Index (PERI). The Distribution coefficient (Kd) was calculated to ascertain the bioavailability of the metals. Results revealed clear seasonal variability in surface water quality driven by rainfall and anthropogenic inputs. Dissolved oxygen (3.85–4.50 mg/L) remained below WHO, US EPA, and FMev thresholds, while pH, conductivity, and nutrients stayed within acceptable limits. Strong and species-dependent Pearson correlations demonstrated that sediment is the dominant exposure route for all Macrobrachium species. Iron (Fe) showed strong correlations in M. rosenbergii (r = 0.722, p < 0.05), M. vollenhovenii (r = 0.989, p < 0.001), and M. equidens (r = 0.661, p < 0.05), while M. macrobrachion showed a weak, non-significant association (r = 0.181, p > 0.05). Zinc (Zn) correlated significantly only in M. vollenhovenii (r = 0.917, p < 0.001); correlations in M. macrobrachion (r = 0.547, p > 0.05), M. rosenbergii (r = 0.131, p > 0.05), and M. equidens (r = 0.491, p > 0.05) were weak or non-significant. Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) explained 79.88% of species–environment variation, identifying sediment texture and metal loading as the main ecological drivers. Distribution coefficients (Kd) showed strong sediment retention for chromium (55) and iron (66.89) in June, while cadmium remained predominantly mobile across months. Risk indices revealed ultra-high enrichment for cadmium (EF > 5), though the geo-accumulation index indicated sediments were unpolluted (Igeo < 0). The Pollution Load Index remained low (PLI = 0.103), and ecological risk assessment showed cadmium posed the highest but still low overall ecological risk (mean PERI = 45.67). In conclusion, the river maintains good ecological integrity with low metal contamination, but cadmium enrichment signals early anthropogenic influence. Although sediments are currently unpolluted, continuous monitoring is recommended to prevent future ecological impairment.

Medicinal plants have long served as a vital source of bioactive compounds with therapeutic potential against a wide range of microbial pathogens. The increasing incidence of antibiotic resistance among pathogenic bacteria has renewed scientific interest in exploring plant-derived compounds as alternative antimicrobial agents. Mimosa pudica (commonly known as the “Sensitive Plant” or “Touch-Me-Not”) is a medicinal herb traditionally used in folk medicine for its reported antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. This study evaluated the phytochemical constituents and antibacterial activity of hot and cold water extracts of Mimosa pudica against three clinically significant bacterial isolates: Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli. Qualitative phytochemical screening revealed the presence of saponins, flavonoids, and tannins, while terpenoids and glycosides were absent. Tannins were moderately present (++) in both extracts, suggesting their possible contribution to the plant’s antimicrobial potential. The antibacterial assay demonstrated concentration-dependent inhibitory effects against all test organisms. The cold extract exhibited higher antibacterial activity than the hot extract, with Staphylococcus aureus showing a maximum zone of inhibition of 26.00 ± 5.29 mm at 2000 mg/ml, compared to 8.00 ± 5.29 mm for the hot extract. Similarly, the cold extract showed superior inhibition against Escherichia coli (27.33 ± 6.11 mm) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (18.67 ± 7.57 mm) at the highest concentration. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) values revealed that Staphylococcus aureus was most susceptible to the cold extract (80 mg/ml), whereas Pseudomonas aeruginosa exhibited the least susceptibility (175 mg/ml for both extracts). The Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) results indicated that both extracts were bacteriostatic rather than bactericidal at the tested concentrations (2000 mg/ml). Comparative antibiotic sensitivity tests showed that the bacterial isolates displayed varying degrees of resistance and susceptibility to standard antibiotics, underscoring the need for effective plant-based alternatives. Overall, the findings demonstrate that Mimosa pudica possesses promising antibacterial activity, particularly in its cold water extract, likely due to the presence of tannins, saponins, and flavonoids. These results support the traditional use of Mimosa pudica in herbal medicine and suggest its potential as a natural source of antimicrobial compounds for combating bacterial infections, especially those caused by antibiotic-resistant pathogens. x

Microbiological quality is of importance to public health as it directly relates to spoilage of fish and food poisoning. This study was aimed at evaluating bacteria isolates from smoked fish sold in various location in Ekosodin. The bacterial isolates were characterized and identified using morphological and biochemical methods. The percentage distribution and frequency of the isolates were evaluated using statistical method. From the result obtained in this study, the total heterotrophic bacterial count ranged from 3.22±1.5 log10cfu/g to 4.550228±1.00 log10cfu/g. Using the cultural, morphological and biochemical test results, the bacterial isolates obtained in this study were Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella sp, Enterobacter sp, Pseudomonas sp and Shigella sp The frequent of the bacterial isolation showed that E.coil has the highest percentage of 30%. The bacteria is obtained from this study were all susceptible to few antibiotics namely perfloxacin,, amoxicillin, rocephin and ciprofloxacin but were resistant to ampiclox, zinnacef, sulfamethoxazole and gentamicin. In conclusion, this study has revealed that the level of microbial contamination of dry fish roducts could either be environmentally dependent. It also revealed fish contamination is a problem and consumption of uncooked smoked fish can be hazardous and should be avoided.