E. STEPHEN OGHAGBON

Diabetes mellitus is intrinsically linked to a pro-thrombotic state, significantly increasing the risk of cardiovascular events such as stroke and myocardial infarction. This study investigated the potential anticoagulant activity of the aqueous extract of Picralima nitida using the Partial Thromboplastin Time with Kaolin (PTTK) assay in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Rats were categorized into the Diabetic Control (G1, 21.50±0.50 s) and three treatment groups receiving 200 mg/kg b.w. (G5), 400 mg/kg b.w. (G3), and 500 mg/kg b.w. (G6) of the extract. PTTK values were measured and expressed as Mean ± Standard Error of the Mean (SEM). Data were analyzed using One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) followed by Duncan’s Post Hoc Test, with significance accepted at P<0.05. Treatment with P. nitida resulted in a significant prolongation of PTTK compared to the diabetic control. The maximum anticoagulant effect was observed in the Mid-High dose (400 mg/kg b.w.) group (G3), which recorded the highest mean PTTK of 23.00±3.00 seconds. A non-linear dose-response was identified, as the highest dose (500 mg/kg b.w., G6) yielded 21.50±0.50 seconds, matching the diabetic control and demonstrating reduced efficacy compared to the mid-high dose. These findings confirm that the aqueous extract of Picralima nitida possesses significant anticoagulant potential by modulating
the intrinsic coagulation pathway. The optimal therapeutic window was identified at 400 mg/kg b.w., supporting the extract’s potential as a natural antithrombotic agent to mitigate cardiovascular complications in diabetes.

Pregnancy requires women to provide calcium and phosphorus, in amounts that may exceed their normal daily intake. Necessary adaptations take place within each time period, to meet the fetal and maternal needs such as the increase in intestinal calcium and phosphate absorption. Although some women may experience fragility fractures as a consequence of pregnancy, for others, bone density is not affected by pregnancy. Study conducted on calcium and phosphorus levels in pregnant women, revealed significant findings. There was a significant decrease in serum calcium and phosphorus levels in the second and third trimesters, compared to non pregnant controls. These findings suggest the importance of educating pregnant women of the importance of a well balanced diet and consistent intake of prenatal supplements, to prevent complications associated with calcium and phosphorus deficiency disorder.

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.

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder characterized by chronic hyperglycemia, which often leads to complications such as increased glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels and imbalances in serum phosphate concentrations. Picralima nitida, a medicinal plant widely used in traditional medicine, has shown potential antidiabetic and biochemical regulatory effects. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of P. nitida on glycated hemoglobin and serum phosphate concentrations in male Wistar rats after a controlled feeding period. A total of [40] male Wistar rats were divided into experimental groups, including a control group and treatment groups receiving varying doses of P. nitida extract. Blood samples were collected before and after the intervention to assess HbA1c levels and serum phosphate concentrations. The results revealed a significant reduction in HbA1c levels in treated groups compared to the control, indicating improved glycemic control. Additionally, P. nitida administration didn’t influenced serum phosphate concentrations. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of Picralima nitida in diabetes management and its possible impact on phosphate metabolism. Further studies are recommended to explore the underlying mechanisms and confirm its clinical applicability.

The study investigated the impact of daily intake of aqueous fruit pulp extract of Picralima nitida on the total antioxidant capacity in experimental rats. Picralima nitida, known for its rich phytochemical composition, was chosen for its potential health benefits. Thirty- five rats were divided into control and experimental groups, with the latter receiving daily doses of the aqueous fruit pulp extract. After a specified duration, blood samples were collected for the assessment of total antioxidant capacity. The results revealed a significant increase in the total antioxidant capacity in the experimental group B and compared to the control, suggesting a positive influence of Picralima nitida extract on the antioxidant defense system. This enhancement in antioxidant capacity may be attributed to the diverse bioactive compounds present in the fruit pulp extract, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolics, and zinc known for their antioxidant properties