Asian Journal of Research in Biochemistry

Effects of Aqueous Leaves Extracts of Individual and Polyherbal Formulated Ointments in Demonstration of Elastic Fibres on Wound Healing of Wounded Skin of Wistar Rats

Abubakar Usman — 2026-01-02

Wound defined as a loss or breaking of epithelial cellular. Wound healing is a complex process that is dependent on several factors that may hasten or affect the process of wound healing activity. The aim of the study was to assess the effects of aqueous leaves extract of individual and polyherbal formulated ointments in wounded skin of wistar rats. Total of 45 healthy wistar rats were divided into 9 groups, with 5 rats in each. Group A negative control, wounded no treatment, group B positive control, wounded and treated with standard drug, group C test wounded treated with aqueous extract of A nilotica only, group D test wounded treated with aqueous leaves extract of A. vera only, group E test group wounded and treated with aqueous leaves extract of C. procera only, group F test wounded treated with combinations of aqueous leaves extract of A. nilotica and A. vera, group G wounded treated with combinations of aqueous leaf extract of A. nilotica and C. procera, the group H wounded treated with aqueous leaves extract of aloe vera and C. procera and group I test wounded treated with aqueous leaves extract of polyherbal formulation of A. nilotica, A. vera and C. procera. The result of the study showed that extracts of A. nilotica has better physical properties than other extracts, The aqueous leaves extract the Acacia nilotica, Aloe vera and Calotropis procera shows very good physical characteristics and presence of secondary metabolites that possessed wound healing effect. In conclusion the research showed elastic fibres deposition in groups treated with aqueous leaves extract of Acacia nilotica formulated ointments and in combination of the three extracts of the studied sections.

Effect of Polypropylene Container Color on the Stability of Lutein and Zeaxanthin in Palm Oil under Sunlight Exposure

Okogbenin E.A — 2026-01-15

This study evaluated the effect of polypropylene (PPE) containers of different colors (black, blue, yellow, and white) on the stability of lutein and zeaxanthin in palm oil under sunlight exposure. Lutein and zeaxanthin, essential carotenoids with significant antioxidant and eye health benefits, are prone to degradation when exposed to UV light and oxygen. The Baseline carotenoid concentrations were measured initially, with samples analyzed every 30 days over a 60-day exposure period. Containers were exposed to direct sunlight for seven hours daily (9:00 AM – 4:00 PM). Each PPE container color was analyzed in true duplicates for both day 30 and day 60 resulting in a total of 4 treatment per PPE color. This gives a total number of 16 sample treatments. Statistical analysis using ANOVA, with significance levels set at 0.05, revealed significant differences in carotenoid stability among the PPE containers over time.

Results showed that black PPE containers provided the highest retention of both lutein and zeaxanthin, with no significant degradation over the 60-day period (p > 0.05), maintaining levels close to the baseline. In contrast, blue PPE exhibited moderate protection, while white and yellow containers demonstrated significant declines in carotenoid levels, with lutein and zeaxanthin concentrations reduced by more than half by 60 days (p < 0.05). The comparison between 30-day and 60-day values further highlighted the protective effect of black PPE, with statistically significant reductions in these carotenoids observed only in the lighter-colored containers (p < 0.05).

These findings emphasize the importance of UV-blocking packaging, particularly black PPE, in preserving these carotenoids in palm oil. Using UV-resistant containers can enhance the shelf life and nutritional value of carotenoid- rich oils, ensuring product quality throughout storage and distribution. This research provides a basis for improved packaging strategies in the palm oil industry to meet the growing consumer demand for nutrient-stable functional foods.

Phytochemical, Nutritional, and Pharmacological Aspects of Brachystegia eurocoma and Tetrapleura tetraptera

Umerah, N.N — 2026-01-22

Most indigenous plants in Nigeria exhibit a wide range of biological and physiological activities like anti-hypertensive, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-diabetic and anti-carcinogenic. Plants such as Tetrapleura tetraptera and Brachystegia eurocoma also exhibit medicinal properties. This study aimed to evaluate the chemical composition and ethnobotanical effect of “Achi” (Brachystegia eurocoma) and “Uhiokrihio” (Tetrapleura tetraptera). Brachystegia eurocoma and Tetrapleura tetraptera were processed raw and analysed for chemical, phytochemicals, and bioactive substances using standard methods. Moisture, fat, crude fibre, ash, protein, beta-carotene, thiamine, riboflavin, vitamin C and vitamin E content were determined. The data obtained were analysed statistically for mean and standard deviation using SPSS version 20. The result of this study showed that the flavonoids were 0.10 and 0.62%, glycosides 0.20 and 0.74%, saponins 0.81 and 3.40%, lycopene 0.21 and 0.03%, alkanoids 0.60 and 1.26%, tannins 0.11 and 2.56, and phenol 0.81 and 0.28% for B. eurocoma and T. tetraptera, respectively. Conclusively, the ethnobotanical effect of B. eurocoma and T. tetraptera is of great importance for the healthy well-being of individuals and the communities that cultivate it should harness it and utilise it to boost their nutritional status.

Assessment of the Lipid Profile of Diabetic Patients Received at Dalal Jamm National Hospital, Senegal

Gueye Mouhamadou Moustapha — 2026-02-07

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic pathology characterized by chronic hyperglycemia. It is defined as fasting blood glucose ≥ 1.26 g/L (7 mmol/L) confirmed twice or blood glucose ≥ 2 g/L (11.1 mmol/L) at any time of the day. The presence of dyslipidemia affects almost 50% of diabetic patients and increases the risk of cardiovascular disease in these already high cardiovascular risk patients.

Methods: This was a retrospective, descriptive and analytical study conducted in diabetic patients followed by CHNDJ. The staff were recruited from the biochemistry department of the medical analysis laboratory between August 2019 and February 2020. The main objective was to assess the lipid profile and atherogenicity indices in these patients.

Results: The study population was 231. Average age was 56.8 ± 8.15 years (extreme: 35 and 8 1 years). The overall prevalence of dyslipidemia was 67.1%. Hypercholesterolemia was the most common anomaly (51.5%), followed by hyper-LDL-cholesterolaemia (25.1%). Dyslipidemia was significantly more common in women than in men (80.6% vs 19.4%; p = 0.004). Women were also more likely to experience hypercholesterolemia, LDL-cholesterolaemia and mixed hyperlipidemia.

Conclusion: This study shows that exploring the lipid profile is essential in diabetic patients, in order to better prevent and manage the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Evaluation of Atherogenic Risk in Diabetic Patients Attending the National Hospital Center Dalal Jamm, Senegal

Gueye Mouhamadou Moustapha — 2026-02-14

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus, defined by chronic hyperglycemia (fasting blood glucose ≥ 1.26 g/L or ≥ 2 g/L at any time), is frequently associated with atherogenic dyslipidemia, which exacerbates cardiovascular risk.

Methods: This was a retrospective, descriptive, and analytical study conducted among diabetic patients followed at CHNDJ. Patients were recruited from the biochemistry department of the medical analysis laboratory between August 2019 and February 2020. The main objective was to assess atherogenic risk in these patients.

Results: Mean age 57.4 ± 13.8 years; 74.9% women; dyslipidemia prevalence 67.1%. Mean AIP and AI values were elevated in the study population (Table 1), and their variation according to dyslipidemia showed that these indices exceeded recommended thresholds in both dyslipidemic and non-dyslipidemic patients. Atherogenicity indices were elevated (mean AIP 0.24; Castelli I 3.9), more perturbed in patients ≥ 60 years (p < 0.05 for AIP, CRI-I, CRIII) and in cases of glycemic imbalance (p < 0.05 for CRI-I, CRI-II, AIP, AI).

Conclusion: This study demonstrates that exploration of the lipid profile and atherogenicity indices is essential in diabetic patients to better prevent and manage cardiovascular disease risk.

Molecular Identification and Characterization of Keratinase-Producing Bacteria from Poultry Waste Sites in Enugu State

Augustine E. Ibeziako — 2026-02-16

Introduction: Feather waste poses an environmental challenge because keratin is a structural fibrous polypeptide protein that is highly resistant to proteolytic degradation due to its complex bonding structure, which is stabilized by disulfide and hydrogen bonds.

Aim: In this research, we aimed to identify and characterize the bacteria keratinase that possess the ability to degrade keratin isolated from some poultry waste dumping sites in Enugu state, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods: Six waste soil samples were collected from three different locations, two from each location. A total of thirty bacterial isolates were obtained from the three poultry waste sites. Protease activity served as the main criterion for screening these isolates on skim milk agar plates.

Results: Five of the thirty isolates exhibited proteolytic activity and were further confirmed to possess keratinolytic activity on feather basal medium. Within fifteen days, the test showed nearly complete feather degradation. However, three bacterial isolates—FDS1, GARMS1, and GMIS1—that exhibited the highest keratinase activity were characterized. Further identification using 16S rRNA gene sequencing confirmed their molecular identities. Results on molecular characterization revealed that the isolates FDS1, GARMS1, and GMIS1 belong to the genus Bacillus. The isolates showed more than 95% similarity with Bacillus subtilis subsp. stercoris strain 153.

Conclusion: The soils from the Gariki Awkunanaw waste dumping sites, regardless of location, contained Bacillus subtilis subsp. stercoris strain 153.

Protective Effects of Ocimum gratissimum Leaf Extract Against Ibuprofen – Induced Gastrointestinal and Renal Toxicity in the Rats

Ndinemeni Victor Chukwuma — 2026-02-17

Aims: This study investigated the protective effects of Ocimum gratissimum (OG) leaf extract against ibuprofen-induced gastrointestinal and renal toxicity in rats.

Study Design: Experimental animal study.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Animal House Facility of the Department of Human Physiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Abia State University, Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria.

Methodology: Fresh Ocimum gratissimum leaves were extracted and subjected to phytochemical analysis and acute toxicity testing. Renal toxicity was induced using ibuprofen. Fifty rats were divided into five groups (n = 10): normal control, ibuprofen control (200 mg/kg), and three treatment groups receiving ibuprofen plus OG leaf extract at 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg body weight. Renal function indices and antioxidant parameters were assessed after 28 days. Gastrointestinal studies included charcoal meal motility, gastric acid secretion, extractible mucus weight, and ulcer score evaluation. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21, with significance set at p < 0.05.

Results: Phytochemical analysis revealed high flavonoid (17.48±0.27 mg/100 g) and phenolic (12.42±0.10 mg/100 g) contents, with moderate levels of saponins and alkaloids. The extract showed a high safety margin with an LD₅₀ > 5000 mg/kg, while ibuprofen had an LD₅₀ of 707.11 mg/kg. Ibuprofen significantly elevated serum urea and creatinine and reduced antioxidant enzyme activities while increasing lipid peroxidation (p < 0.05). Co-treatment with OG extract significantly normalized renal function parameters, improved antioxidant status, and reduced lipid peroxidation. OG extract also significantly improved gastrointestinal motility, increased gastric mucus, reduced gastric acidity, and lowered ulcer scores in ibuprofen-treated rats (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Ocimum gratissimum leaf extract confers significant renoprotective and gastroprotective effects against ibuprofen-induced toxicity, primarily through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, supporting its potential therapeutic application in the management of NSAID-associated gastrointestinal and renal damage.

Hepatoprotective Effects of Amaranthus Spinosus Extract against Alcohol-induced Liver Injury in Wistar Rats: Modulation of Lipid Profile and Liver Function Markers

Anozie Maduabuchi Mbazurike — 2026-02-17

Background: Alcohol-induced liver injury is a major global health concern, characterized by oxidative stress, dyslipidemia, hepatocellular injury, and altered liver function. The present study evaluated the hepatoprotective and lipid-modulating effects of Amaranthus spinosus aqueous extract against ethanol-induced liver injury in Wistar rats.

Materials and Method: Forty-nine (49) rats were divided into groups; normal control, standard control (silymarin 50mg/kg), alcohol-exposed groups, and treatment group at 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg doses of the extract, with or without continued alcohol administration, over 42 days. Liver function markers (ALT, AST, total protein, albumin, bilirubin), lipid profiles (total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL-C, LDL-C, VLDL-C), and oxidative stress indicators (SOD, GSH, MDA, LDH) were assessed. Histopathological analysis was conducted to evaluate structural liver changes.

Results: Alcohol administration significantly elevated serum ALT, AST, bilirubin, total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL-C, and VLDL-C, while reducing HDL-C, total protein, albumin, SOD, and GSH, alongside increased MDA and LDH levels, indicating hepatocellular injury, oxidative stress, and dyslipidemia. Treatment with A. spinosus extract ameliorated these biochemical alterations in a dose- and treatment-dependent manner, restoring antioxidant enzyme activity, reducing lipid peroxidation, normalizing lipid profiles, and improving hepatic synthetic function. Histopathological examination confirmed attenuation of alcohol-induced steatosis, necrosis, and architectural distortion, particularly in rats receiving high-dose extract.

Conclusion: These findings suggest that Amaranthus spinosus exerts significant hepatoprotective, antioxidant, and lipid-modulating effects, highlighting its potential as a natural therapeutic agent against alcohol-induced liver injury. Further studies are warranted to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying these protective effects.

In-vitro Assessment of Antioxidant Potential and Thrombolytic Activity of Clerodendrum viscosum Leaf Extract

Sadia Afroz — 2026-02-19

This study investigated the antioxidant and thrombolytic activities of methanol leaf extract of Clerodendrum viscosum, a medicinal plant of the Lamiaceae family traditionally used for therapeutic purposes. The antioxidant potential was evaluated through DPPH radical scavenging activity, while total flavonoid and phenolic contents were quantified. The DPPH assay measures the inhibition of pre-formed free radicals, expressed as IC₅₀, the concentration required to achieve 50% antioxidant effect. Additionally, thrombolytic activity was evaluated using an in vitro clot lysis assay.

The methanol extract exhibited a significant antioxidant activity with an IC₅₀ of 66.68 μg/ml, compared to 7480.09 μg/ml for standard ascorbic acid. Total flavonoid content was highest in the methanol extract (319.94 mg QE/g, R² = 0.9878), and total phenolic content was 130.69 mg GAE/g (R² = 0.9983), indicating substantial phytochemical presence. The methanol extract of C. viscosum leaves induced 27.59% clot lysis, whereas the standard streptokinase showed 86.98% activity.

The results suggest that C. viscosum leaves possess moderate antioxidant properties, supporting their potential use in traditional medicine, although further studies are required to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. In addition, the plant possesses mild thrombolytic properties, highlighting its therapeutic potential as a natural source for drug development. Overall, Clerodendrum viscosum demonstrates notable bioactive properties, warranting further pharmacological investigations to explore its efficacy and mechanism of action for antioxidant and thrombolytic applications.

Renal and Hepatotoxic Effects of Polyethylene Terephthalate Microplastics in Chronically Exposed Albino Rats

Godae Fidelis Beega — 2026-02-21

Background: Plastics pollution has emerged as a serious environmental and health problem, with microplastics (plastic particles less than 5 mm in size) being a major concern due to their pervasive presence in the environment serving as a potential source of toxicity affecting organs of the body which may include the kidney and liver.

Aim: This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of chronic exposure to microplastics from polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a commonly used plastics on renal parameters and hepatic enzymes in albino rats.

Materials and Methods: Forty-seven (47) albino rats weighing 150–170g were used for the study. Twelve (12) rats were used for pilot study, while 35 rats were randomly assigned into 5 experimental groups (n=7) after 14 days of acclimatisation. Polyethylene terephthalate pellets were crushed to microplastics, dissolved in water and filtered before use. Group B, C, and D rats received 40mg/kg, 80mg/kg, and 120mg/kg PET-microplastics respectively, administered orally for 90-days. Group E rats were given water stored in PET-containers exposed to sunlight for 30 days, while Group A served as the control. After the treatment, blood samples were analysed for serum urea, creatinine, sodium, potassium, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) using standard biochemical methods. Data were analyzed using GraphPad Prism 9.0.0, with significance at p<0.05.

Results: Polyethylene terephthalate microplastics caused a significant dose-dependent increase in creatinine, urea, potassium, AST, ALT and ALP levels compared to the control rats (p<0.05). However, the plasma levels of these parameters except creatinine do not differ significantly in rats treated with water stored in PET compared to the control rats. There was no significant difference in sodium levels after exposure to PET microplastics (p>0.05).

Conclusion: Chronic PET microplastic exposure induces nephrotoxic and hepatotoxic effects, highlighting the potential public health risks that may be associated with microplastic exposure.

Total Phenolic Content and Antioxidant Activity of Ethanolic Extract from Cotton Fruit Peel (Gossypium hirsutum L.)

Epi Supri Wardi — 2026-02-23

Background and Aims: Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.), a plant in the Malvaceae family, contains a number of secondary metabolites with antioxidant qualities, such as flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and steroids. This study aims to determine the total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of the ethanolic extract of cotton fruit peel (Gossypium hirsutum L.) using a UV–Vis spectrophotometric method.

Study Design: An experimental laboratory study involving maceration extraction, quantitative phenolic analysis, and antioxidant activity evaluation using the DPPH assay.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Perintis Indonesia, Padang, West Sumatera, Indonesia January-June 2025.

Methodology: Maceration was used for extraction, with 70% and 96% ethanol serving as solvents. The Folin–Ciocalteu technique was used to quantify the total phenolic content, and a UV–Vis spectrophotometer was used to measure absorbance at the maximum wavelength of 765 nm. The DPPH radical scavenging method was used to assess antioxidant activity, and absorbance at 520 nm was determined.

Results: The total phenolic content of the ethanolic extract of cotton fruit peel was found to be 9.699% w/w ± 0.0509. Antioxidant activity testing showed an IC₅₀ value of 10.40 µg/mL, corresponding to a gallic acid equivalent (GAE) value of 3.502.

Conclusion: The ethanolic extract of cotton fruit peel exhibits very strong antioxidant activity, as indicated by an IC₅₀ value of less than 50 µg/mL.