N.T. OMORODION

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 ucity of scientific data on the effects on pericardial adipose tissues. Therefore, this study was to examine histopathology anges 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 coconut husks used as beddings in a light and humid environment. Rats were fed on standard pellets and water provided adequately. Ethical approval (V.1034/40) was obtained from Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources while rats were used in compliance with laydown policies outlined in the Guide for Care and Use of Laboratory Animals. L-PKC diet was prepared consisting of 90% super feed, 8% pig fat, and 2% PKC mixed appropriately to make up 100%. Herbal decoction was prepared by placing 296g wrap of it in a clean pot while one (1L) litre of water was added and heated for 30minutes with a gas cooker according to producer’s recommendation. After cooking, it was cooled and filtered with a white sterile muslin cloth. The dark-brown decoction (filtrate) was refrigerated to avoid decay at 25°C. LD50 was conducted to ascertain the lethal dose that will serve as a guide in administering the required dosage. Experimental rats were divided into four (4) groups irrespective of sex, age and weight (n=4). Group A were untreated but received standard rats diet (SRD) and water. Group B was fed with 10% of L-PKC fat diet mixed with 90% SRD and water. Group C was fed 10% L-PKC mixed with 90% SRD and water, and administered 2.5mL/kg body weight of herbal decoction hile Group D was fed same way like Group C but treated with 5mL/kg of herbal decoction. Each rat was picked with a hand owel and treated orally for twenty eight (28) days at 2day intervals with a sterile syringe. Average weekly body eights of each rat were recorded with a digital electronic balance. In the end, all animals fasted overnight and were anaesthetized with chloroform. Rats were dissected using scalpel blade while pericardial adipose tissues from the epicardial and paracardial were excised including he myocardium and blotted individually with filter paper prior to grossing while relative tissue weights were recorded. Blood sample was collected from the cardiac region from each animal without anticoagulant with tab gel and centrifuged (BROADBENT, UK) at 3000 rpm for 5 min to obtain the serum content. Sera were stored at -20°C until it was eeded for fasting lipid profile using the chemical analyzer. Grossed samples were fixed in 10% neutral buffered formol saline and processed histologically (dehydrated with alcohol, cleared in xylene and impregnated with molten paraffin wax and embedded with the automatic embedding machine. Tissues were de-blocked and sectioned with a microtome at 3-5µ. Sections were stained using H&E method and viewed with the microscope at x10 and x40 magnifications. Data were statistically analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey's post-hoc test for multiple comparisons while p<0.05 was considered significant. The effect of the graded treatment (2.5mL/kg and 5mL/kg AJMD) on rats revealed a progressive increase in Group (C and D). All rats experienced increases in weights compared with Day 0 and there was no significant difference in weights within the study period. Total pericardial fat weight was increased in all groups but higher in group B (Lard-PKC). The same condition was seen in total pericardial index with no significant differences (p<0.05) in all pericardial weights. Organ weights in L- PKC (Group B) were higher when ompared with those in Group A. Those in Group C (L-PKC + 2.5mL/kg AJMD) decreased compared with Group B while Group D (L-PKC +5mL/kg AJMD) increased with no significant difference in the groups. Lipid profile analysis showed that there is a significant decrease in mean TC (mg/dL) p<0.001 between Group B and A, and between Group C and B. There was no significant difference in HDL and LDL while VLDL showed a significant difference (p<0.000) between Group A and D and between roup B 11 and C. Pericardial adiposity from Group A showed that ipocytes remained intact without distortions in histological architecture. Adipocytes sizes in Group B though appeared normal but bigger in sizes compared with control animals. Pericardial adiposity in Group C and D were normal but slightly reduced in roup D compared with other groups. Myocardium (Group A) owed normal histological architecture evident with an intact ranching muscle fibre. Group B showed evidence of ballooning of branching muscle fibres and nucleus. Group C and D were normal ith an intact fibre striation and nucleus. Therefore, Aju Mbaise decoction maintained histological integrity of the myocardium, lipid profile, including reduction in adipose tissue weights and adipocyte sizes of rats in this study. Further investigation from molecular perspectives should be considered to support the current claims.

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.

Cadmium (Cd), a pervasive environmental toxicant, has been widely implicated in male reproductive dysfunction due to its ability to induce oxidative stress, disrupt endocrine signaling, and impair testicular architecture. In recent years, herbal medicine have thrived in therapeutic usage, ginseng has been known to be a potent Korean herb. The protective role of ginseng is attributed to its antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory properties, which counteract cadmium-induced oxidative stress and cellular damage. This study aimed to investigate the histopathological and functional effects of ginseng on cadmium-induced testicular toxicity in Wistar albino rats. Animal model was used for this study, twenty male rats were used and randomly divided into four groups: Group A (control), Group B (Cd-exposed), Group C (Cd + 200 mg/kg ginseng), and Group D (Cd + 400 mg/kg ginseng). Cadmium chloride was administered imtraperitoneally at 1 mg/kg, while ginseng was administered orally, all administration was for three weeks after 14 days acclimatization. Parameters assessed included body and testicular weight, sperm characteristics (count, motility, morphology), and histopathological changes in testicular tissue. Results demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in testicular weight, sperm count, and progressive motility in cadmium-exposed rats compared to controls (p < 0.05). Histological examination revealed degeneration and shrickening of seminiferous tubules, germ cell loss in Cd-treated groups. Co-administration of ginseng, particularly at 400 mg/kg, significantly ameliorated these effects, as evidenced by improved sperm parameters, restoration of testicular architecture. Putting together all data from this study, this study provides evidence that ginseng exerts a dose-dependent protective effect against cadmium-induced testicular toxicity in Wistar rats. These findings highlight its therapeutic
potential as a natural adjunct in mitigating heavy metal-associated reproductive dysfunction. Further study into optimal dosage for therapeutic usage is of great importance.

In an effort to enhance sexual performance, some individuals resort to using aphrodisiac substances such as sildenafil (Viagra). This study was conducted to assess the effects of sildenafil on the heart and testicular tissues of adult albino rats. A total of 18 male albino rats, each weighing between 200g and 220g, were obtained from the animal house at Anatomy Department. The rats were randomly assigned into three groups (A, B, and C), with six rats per group. Group A served as the control and received only standard feed and water. Group B rats were administered sildenafil orally at a dose of 5 mg/kg body weight, dissolved in saline, daily for four consecutive weeks. Group C rats received a higher dose of 10 mg/kg body weight for the same duration, followed by an additional four-week withdrawal period without treatment. Body weights were recorded at the beginning of the experiment (week 0) and on the final day prior to sacrifice. At the end of the experimental period, all animals were sacrificed, and tissue samples were processed for histological analysis. Serial tissue sections were cut at 5 µm thickness using a microtome and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Selected tissue sections were documented through photomicrography. Results indicated that the 10 mg/kg dose of sildenafil led to a notable increase in monocyte and granulocyte counts, while red blood cell levels decreased across the treated groups. Weight measurements revealed only minor differences between the control and sildenafil-treated groups after the four-week period. Histological examination of testicular tissues from the 10 mg/kg group showed mild necrosis in cardiac muscle fibers, seminiferous tubules, and interstitial tissues. Additional findings included vascular congestion, hypertrophy of Leydig cells, and degeneration of spermatogonial cells. These findings highlight the need for further investigation into the molecular mechanisms triggered by prolonged exposure to PDE5 inhibitors. Such research may guide the safer and more effective therapeutic use of aphrodisiacs, particularly when administered at lower doses and for shorter durations.

Lead is a toxic heavy metal associated with renal and hepatic injury through oxidative stress and biochemical disruption. This study evaluated the histomorphological and protective effects of Manihot esculenta leaf extract on lead-induced renal and hepatic toxicity in albino rats. Literature highlights lead’s mechanisms of toxicity and the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and organoprotective properties of M. esculenta. Twenty-five albino rats were divided into five groups: control, lead only (60 mg/kg), lead plus extract (500 mg/kg), lead plus extract (1000 mg/kg), and extract only (1000 mg/kg). Treatments were administered orally for 28 days, after which body weights, organ weights, biochemical parameters, and histological changes were assessed. Body and kidney weights showed no significant differences (p = 0.177; p = 0.753), but liver weights varied significantly (p = 0.010), with hepatomegaly in the lead plus extract (500 mg/kg) group. Biochemical markers (urea, creatinine, electrolytes, bilirubin, AST, ALT, ALP) were largely unchanged (p > 0.05), except chloride levels (p = 0.035), which were elevated in the lead plus extract (1000 mg/kg) group. Histological analysis revealed hepatocellular degeneration and renal tubular necrosis in the lead-only group, while extract-treated groups showed preserved hepatic cords, intact glomeruli, and reduced inflammatory changes. In conclusion, M. esculenta leaf extract demonstrated dose-dependent protective effects against lead-induced renal and hepatic toxicity, with moderate doses (500 mg/kg) offering optimal benefit. These findings support its potential as a complementary therapeutic agent in managing heavy metal toxicity.

The prevalence of chronic elevation of blood pressure, and the resulting morbidity, are sufficiently high to justify viewing the condition as a serious global public health problem. Sometimes lifestyle changes are not enough to treat high blood pressure, in such cases medication is required. This study performed an Evaluation on Some High Blood Pressure Medications(Amlodipine and Telmisartan) on the hepatic tissues of albino rats. A total of 18 albino rats weighing 165g-195g with high blood pressure were distributed into 3 groups (A,B and C). Group A (Labelled as control group) were administered water and food only, Group B amlodipine was given in a dose of 10 mg/kg/day for 4 weeks (28 days), Group C Telmisartan was given in a dose of 10 mg/kg/day for( 4 weeks). After 4 weeks, Animals were weighed, anesthetize and dissected and the liver harvested placed in 10% Neutral buffered formalin. A stain in hematoxylin for 3-5 minutes was done. Samples of selected sections of the liver was
photographed and presented as plates. A significant increase in body weight was recorded in all groups of Amlodipine and Telmisartan treated animals. Microscopic examination of hepatic tissues from the albino rats demonstrated no obvious pathologic changes, including hypertrophy, and perivascular fibrosis, wall thickening hepatic atrophy and fibrosis, and vascular sclerosis in groups treated with Amlodipine. Histopathological examination showed no pathological glomerular, tubular, or blood vessel changes in groups treated with telmisartan during the weeks of the research. Thrust of public health policies should be primary prevention of hypertension. The long-term treatment with this combination could presents a beneficial effect on the
reduction of BP, BPV, and the protection of end- in-depth study on the effect of these antihypertensive drug

The three major stains used in combination to stain cervical smears was discovered by Nicholas Papanicolaou and referred to as Pap stain. One of the stains is Eosin – Azure which is made up of Eosin Y, Light Green SF and Bismarck brown. Curcuma longa extract was applied in place of Eosin Y as a constituent of EA50. Cervical smears from premenopausal women were collected and stained with papanicolaou’s stain as control, while modified papanicolaou’s stain with Curcuma longa extract replacing Eosin Y in EA50 was also used to stain cervical smear. The staining ability of the modified stain was examined from the result. Superficial cells were well stained and demonstrated with the modified stain (T.A-extract) while the Zingiber Officinale extract (Z.A) stained the nuclei and cytoplasm of superficial cells poorly. The staining ability of the extract is 100% when compared to smears stained with Papanicolaou’s stain. The major purpose of staining is to demonstrate cellular components to aid diagnosis. Most of the stains available are age long discoveries which require modifications for better application. Local alternative will help boost availability and affordability. Curcuma Longa is readily available and from our findings, it can be used in place of Eosin Y as a component of Eosin Azure. The dye component of herbal products and their staining ability should be researched to create cheaper and readily available local alternative to imported stains.