Bio-Research

Biological risk factors of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) in Iraqi pediatric and adolescent populations within a global context: A comparative review

Israa M. Ali Alameen, Sumayah Mahmood Rafid, Farah Ali Hameed — Sun, 22 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) is considered a chronic autoimmune disease which affects children mainly due to the destruction of beta cells of the islets of Langerhans of the pancreas. This review aims to summaries the biological risk factors—genetic, autoimmune, and viral—affecting Iraqi children, and to identify research gaps for future studies. A narrative comparative review of studies was conducted in Iraq between 2014 and 2025 and systematically compared them with selected global research. The global studies included primarily genetic and immunological case-control and cross-sectional investigations on pediatric and adolescent populations with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM). This approach enabled the comparison of molecular and immunological findings between local and international data. The review focused on biological risk factors such as genetic markers (e.g., HLA-DR3/DR4, INSR, CTLA4, PTPN22, IL2RA, TYK2), autoantibodies, and viral triggers associated with T1DM. Comparative analysis revealed that Iraqi studies demonstrated significant genetic associations of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) with HLA-DR3/DR4, INSR, CTLA4, and PTPN22 variants, consistent with patterns observed in global research. Other genes such as IL2RA, INS (VNTR), IFIH1, TYK2, ERBB3, and CLEC16A showed variable or limited evidence, reflecting gaps in local investigation compared with international findings. Elevated autoantibody levels and Coxsackie B virus infection were also identified as major immunological and viral triggers, confirming the multifactorial and globally comparable nature of T1DM involving genetic, immune, and environmental factors, These findings underscore Iraq’s limited genetic coverage compared to international standards and emphasize the need for integrative, large-scale research. The comparative analysis revealed that while Iraqi studies have identified key genetic and immunological determinants of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) in children and adolescents, their methodological scope and molecular coverage remain limited compared to international standards. Addressing these disparities requires large-scale, multi-center studies integrating global techniques and datasets to strengthen local understanding, early detection, and personalized diabetes care in Iraq.

Unlocking the power of medicinal plants: A mini review of some of the plants used in combination therapies for cancer treatment

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The rising of cancer burden globally, with new incidences and deaths annually, demands the consideration of advanced treatment strategies away from conventional therapies. This mini-review highlights the possible of medicinal plants serving as an adjunct in combination therapies for the enhancement and effectiveness of cancer treatments while reducing drug resistance and side effects. The review combines existing literature on numerous medicinal plants that establish anticancer properties, elucidating their active compounds, mechanisms of actions, and clinical uses. The challenges associated with integrating these natural remedies into mainstream oncology are also addressed, including standardization, safety, and regulatory concerns. The discussion underlines the impact of understanding the multifaceted mechanisms of action of phytochemicals in targeting various cancer pathways, thus providing a promising path for developing more whole cancer treatment strategies. Ultimately, this review aims to exploring the knowledge gap concerning the therapeutic roles of medicinal plants in combination therapies, promoting for further research for confirmations.

Influence of Allophylus africanus hydro-methanol leaf extract on biochemical and histological parameters of gentamicin- induced liver and kidney injuries in adult male Wistar albino rats

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Liver injury refers to any damage to the liver cells (hepatocytes) or liver tissues that impairs the organ’s ability to perform its normal functions. Kidney injury refers to damage that compromises the kidney’s ability to filter blood, maintain fluid and electrolyte balance, and remove waste products from the body. The liver and kidney injuries can result from toxins, drugs, alcohol, acetaminophen overdose, some antibiotics, and infections. The study investigated the influence of dried Allophylus africanus hydro-methanol leaf extract on biochemical and histological parameters of gentamici- induced liver and kidney injuries in adult male Wistar albino rats. A total of twenty five (25) male Wistar rats (150-200g) were divided into 5 groups of 5 animals each (Group 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5) where the mean weight difference in each group was not more than 5 g. Group 1 (normal control) received only distilled water. Groups 2-5 were induced by oral gavage with 80 mg/kg b.wt. of gentamicin single dose. After, groups 3, 4 and 5 received 100, 200 and 300 mg/kg b.wt of Allophylus africanus leaf extract (AALE) respectively, for 10 days. At the end of the experiments, Blood was obtained by cardiac puncture. The liver function test, antioxidant activities and kidney function bio-markers were analyzed to determine the effect of the leaf extract on the treated rats. The animals were sacrificed and the rat's liver and kidney were removed for histological examination. Treatment of rats with 100-300 mg/kg b.wt of AALE significantly (p<0.05) reduced the serum activities of urea, creatinine, AST, ALP, ALT, CAT, total bilirubin and direct bilirubin and significantly (P<0.05) increased total protein, and gluthatione peroxidase (GPx) compared to the untreated group. The activity levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) of the treated rats were statistically comparable to the normal rats at (p<0.05). The AALE significantly reduced concentration level of potassium ion (k+) and chlorine ion (Cl). Furthermore, Histopathological analysis revealed that AALE improved the structural damage of glomeruli and renal tubules in treated rats with increased doses of AALE. The results suggest that AALE are capable of ameliorating liver and kidney injuries caused by gentamicin in rats.

Prevalence of soil-transmitted helminths and protozoan parasites’ infections Among Inmates in Nsukka Correctional Center, Enugu State, Nigeria

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Intestinal parasitic infections, including protozoan and soil-transmitted helminths (STHs), are a major public health concern, especially in overcrowded correctional facilities with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water. However, data on their prevalence among inmates in Nigeria remain limited. This research investigated the prevalence of protozoan and STH infections among detainees at the Nsukka Correctional Center in Enugu State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study involving 90 male inmates was conducted between March and August, 2023. Each participant provided feces in a well-labeled wide-mouthed sample collection bottles from which approximately 2g was analyzed using direct smear and formol-ether concentration techniques. Lugol’s iodine was added to fresh specimens to improve visualization. Microscopy was performed at 10x and 40x magnifications. Overall, 66.7% of participants (60/90) were infected with at least one intestinal parasite. STH infections occurred in 23 inmates (25.6%), while 37 (41.1%) were infected with protozoa. Co-infections with STHs and protozoa were observed in six inmates (6.7%). The identified STHs were Ascaris lumbricoides (21.1%), Strongyloides stercoralis (5.6%), hookworms (2.2%), and Trichuris trichiura (1.1%), while the protozoans were Entamoeba histolytica (37.8%) and Giardia lamblia (8.9%). These findings highlight the substantial burden of parasitic infections in this correctional facility and underscore the urgent need for improved sanitation, hygiene practices, and health education to reduce transmission.

Evaluation of plant growth-promoting properties of nitrogen-fixing Enterobacter mori strain P5 (Mw242734.1) isolated from spent mushroom substrates

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Chemical fertilizers have significantly improved crop yield. Nevertheless, the health of our environment has been affected negatively owing to the toxic residues emanating from repeated chemical fertilizer application. The evaluation of spent mushroom substrate (SMS) as a source of plant growth promoting bacteria is considered a safe alternative to chemical fertilizers. Mannitol Ashby selective agar and semi solid bromthymol blue agar without nitrogen were used to isolate nitrogen-fixing bacteria and screen bacterial isolates for nitrogen fixation potentials respectively. Bergey’s Systematic Bacteriology manual was used for initial identification. Secondary bacterial metabolites were quantified using standard microbiological methods. Seven isolates (C1 to C7) were confirmed to fix atmospheric nitrogen. Colony forms and edges of all isolates were all circular and entire respectively. Only C3 and C6 showed gray colony colours whereas other colonies were white. Isolates C2 and C3 gave high ammonia production and nitrogen fixing efficiency. Each isolate showed varying concentrations of all the secondary metabolites examined. Isolate C3 had significant peak indole acetic acid (IAA) production (300 ± 12.8mg/L), gibberellins (410 ± 15.0 mg/L), 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate (ACC) deaminase secretion (3.07 ± 0.3 mg/mg protein) and hydrogen cyanide production (0.15 ± 0.007 mg/L). Isolate C3 was identified molecularly as Enterobacter mori strain P5 (MW242734.1) with 99.7% similarity. SMS can be considered as a better alternative to chemical fertilizer since they harbor diversity of bacteria species beneficial to plants such as Enterobacter mori strain P5 that is also environmentally friendly.

Suitable heat treatment to control Sitophilus zeamais in stored maize and sustain farming

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Heat treatment is an environment-friendly alternative to chemical insecticides for management of the maize weevil, Sitophilus zeamais, in stored maize. But heat may damage seeds and consequently prevent seed germination or fruiting of plants. In this study, standard procedures were followed utilising the SAMMAZ-52 maize cultivar to determine the suitable heat treatment for effective control of weevils in stored maize without limiting subsequent use in maize farming. Adult male and female weevils were added to 30g of maize grains with moisture content of 14.3% and exposed to temperatures of 50ºC, 60ºC, 70ºC or 80ºC for 30 minutes or 1 hour. 50ºC for 30 minutes or 1 hour was ineffective for killing the weevils. However, 60ºC, 70ºC and 80ºC for 30 minutes or 1 hour completely killed adult weevils present. Viability test showed that maize seeds exposed to 50ºC, 60ºC or 70ºC for 1 hour were viable and germinated after planting, whereas those exposed to 80ºC for 1 hour failed to germinate. All germinated maize plants performed well and yielded cobs with numerous seeds. Temperatures between 60ºC and 70ºC are therefore suitable for controlling S. zeamais in maize stored for both consumption and farming, while 80ºC is suitable for controlling S. zeamais in maize stored only for consumption.

Comparative evaluation of bioactive constituents and antioxidant capacity of Tetrapleura tetraptera aqueous, ethanolic and methanolic fruit extracts

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study aimed at comparative analysis of bioactive constituents and in vitro antioxidant capacity of Tetrapleura tetraptera's aqueous, ethanolic and methanolic fruit extracts. Coarsely ground dried matured fruits of the plant were extracted with distilled water, absolute ethanol and methanol, followed by filtration and complete evaporation at 50°C to produce the respective extracts for analysis of phyto-constituents, nitric oxide radical inhibition and total antioxidant capacity. The results revealed extraction yields of 14.75, 13.26 and 19.09% dry weight respectively and variation in the occurrence of the groups of bioactive compounds that were analysed. Also, the antioxidant assays showed moderate activities of the extracts relative to the standard compound (ascorbic acid) used. The inconsistency in the order of antioxidant activity in the different assays may be due to the variation of assay outcome with different components of the extracts in relation to the experimental method and condition. Thus, summation of the ranks of the IC₅₀/EC₅₀ of antioxidant potentials obtained from both assays suggests that the overall capacity of the aqueous > ethanolic > methanolic fruit extract. Corroboration from this study is important in choice of extraction solvent during the utilization of this fruit against oxidative stress-related disorders. However, the use of more methods of evaluation is recommended for further study to provide a clearer order of these extracts’ antioxidant activity.

Agronomic responses and pollen staining abilities of Solanum melongena l. (eggplant) and Solanum lycopersicum l. (tomato)

Victoria Wilson, Eugenia Ebene Goodlife — Sun, 22 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study investigated agronomic traits and pollen staining ability of two eggplants, Solanum melongena L. (local NHEP 0093 and European hybrid Merdan 465 F1) and two tomato, Solanum lycopersicum L. (local NHTO 0394 and European hybrid Thorgal F₁) genotypes. Seeds were raised in pre-nursery, nursery and transplanted into polyethylene bags containing 20 kg loamy soil mixed with poultry manure at the experimental plot of the Department of Plant Science and Biotechnology, Rivers State University. Experiment was laid out in a Completely Randomized Design with six replications. Agronomic parameters measured included plant height, leaves per plant, leaf area, flowers per plant, days to flowering, and fruits per plant. Data were subjected to one-way ANOVA and means separated using LSD at P < 0.05. Pollen viability was assessed using aceto-carmine staining. Merdan 465 F₁ recorded significantly higher plant height (46.0 cm) than NHEP 0093 (26.4 cm), while no significant difference occurred between tomato genotypes. NHTO 0394 produced significantly more leaves (83) but smaller leaf area (57.3 cm²) compared with the other genotypes, flowered earlier (62.8 days) producing significantly more flowers (83.2) and fruits per plant (28.8) than Thorgal F₁, NHEP 0093, and Merdan 465 F1. Leaves per plant, flowers per plant, and fruits per plant were positively and highly significantly correlated. Pollen staining ability was highest in NHEP 0093 (91%), followed by Merdan 465 F₁ (86%), NHTO 0394 (78%), and Thorgal F1 (65%). However, higher pollen stainability did not correspond to higher fruit yield, as NHTO 0394 produced the most flowers and fruits despite moderate pollen viability. The results indicate that pollen stainability alone is not a reliable predictor of fruit yield, and that greater emphasis should be placed on vegetative vigor and flowering traits in breeding and cultivar selection, with NHTO 0394 showing strong potential for yield improvement.

Pattern of liver biochemical markers and their association with blood pressure in preeclampsia: Insights from tertiary hospitals in Enugu, Nigeria

Obianyido Hector Okechukwu, Obianyido Ozioma Ebere, Molokwu Amarachi — Sun, 22 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Preeclampsia is a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy that can cause multi-organ dysfunction. In severe cases, it often manifests as hepatic impairment. This study aimed to characterize liver biochemical marker patterns and assess their association with blood pressure in preeclampsia. Data were obtained from tertiary hospitals in Enugu, Nigeria. We performed a cross-sectional study at two hospitals in Enugu metropolis, South East, Nigeria. Participants were recruited between April 2024, and March 2025. Using simple random sampling, sixty pregnant women were recruited: 30 with preeclampsia and 30 normotensive controls. Participants were matched by age and gestational age. We assessed liver function markers such as; alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and blood pressure using standard protocols. Results showed that women with preeclampsia had significantly elevated ALT, AST, and total bilirubin levels compared to the control group (p < 0.05). ALP concentrations were similar between groups. We found strong positive correlations between elevated blood pressure and increased AST and ALT. These findings demonstrate a robust relationship between hypertension and hepatic dysfunction in preeclampsia. This underscores the importance of routine liver function assessment in managing preeclampsia. Early identification of hepatic involvement may enable timely intervention and reduce maternal and neonatal risks.

Evaluation of phytochemical and antioxidant properties of Musa sapientum (banana) leaves extract

ilya Bashir, Shaayau Shehu, Favour John Isah — Sun, 22 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

In Northwestern Nigeria, Musa sapientum (banana leaves) are often underutilized, being regarded primarily as waste or animal feed. This study was therefore conducted to investigate their phytochemical composition and antioxidant properties. The leaves were air-dried, powdered, and extracted using methanol. Standard analytical methods were employed for both qualitative and quantitative assessments. The qualitative phytochemical screening revealed the presence of saponins, glycosides, alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, steroids, saponin glycosides, balsams, and volatile oils in varying concentrations. Cardiac glycosides were identified at high levels, while saponins, glycosides, tannins, saponin glycosides, and alkaloids were present in moderate concentrations. Balsams were identified in trace amounts. The abundant cardiac glycoside demonstrates its potential in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Quantitative phytochemical analysis showed flavonoids (2.15 mg/g), tannins (3.8 mg/g), alkaloids (8.5 mg/g), and saponins (3.3 mg/g). The high alkaloid contents signified the ability of the extract to be used in the development of anticancer, antioxidant and antimicrobial drugs. Additionally, the quantitative determination of antioxidant vitamins revealed concentrations of Vitamin A (4.93 mg/dl), Vitamin E (3.8 mg/dl), and Vitamin C (6.2 mg/dl), with Vitamin C being the most abundant. The abundant Vitamin C contents demonstrated the capacity of the extracts to enhance iron absorption and its potential in strengthening of immune system.

Mitotic chromosomal variation in Dioscorea spp. from parents to F₂ progenies

F.P Oyedoyin, O.J. Olawuyi, R.T Feyisola, N. Salaudeen, M.A. Ajayi, A. Edemodu — Sun, 22 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Yam (Dioscorea spp.) is an important staple crop in West Africa, and genetic diversity plays a crucial role in its improvement. The complexity of ploidy levels and chromosomal instability in yam species presents a significant challenge to breeding efforts. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate chromosomal variation in Dioscorea spp. from parental lines to F₂ progenies to provide crucial information for optimising yam breeding programs and improving hybrid selection processes. A total of 67 accessions, including parental lines (Dioscorea praehensilis, D. abyssinica, and D. rotundata), their F₁ and F₂ progenies, were assessed. Chromosome counts were conducted on mitotic cells using the squash technique and FLP orcein staining. The number of chromosomes and abnormalities were recorded, and data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Among the 15 parental lines (D. praehensilis, D. abyssinica, and D. rotundata) assessed, 12 had diploid chromosome counts of 2n = 2x = 40, indicating chromosomal stability. Chromosomal abnormalities, including aneuploidy (2n = 34, 2n = 37, and 2n = 35), were observed in three parental accessions, accounting for a 19.05% abnormality. Interestingly, of the 30 F₁ hybrids, 10 exhibited 2n = 20 (a putative haploid chromosome number), while the others showed high chromosomal variation, with chromosome counts ranging from 2n = 18 to 2n = 33, resulting in a 66.67% abnormality rate. In contrast, 14 of 22 F₂ progenies exhibited increased chromosomal stability, with a higher proportion of diploid counts (2n = 2x = 40) aligning with those of the parental lines. The abnormality rate dropped to 33.52% in F₂ progenies, indicating that chromosomal balance was restored through selfing and backcrossing. This study demonstrates that while interspecific hybridisation induces chromosomal instability in F₁ yam hybrids, subsequent selfing and backcrossing with D. rotundata can restore diploid stability in F₂ progenies. The findings offer cytogenetic insights vital for optimising hybrid selection and developing genetically stable yam cultivars for breeding programmes.

Comparison of electrolyte, urea, creatinine and lipid profile status in hypertensive and renal disease patients in Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) Teaching Hospital

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The pathophysiological interplay between hypertension (HTN) and renal disease (RD) manifests in distinct biochemical perturbations that are critical for risk stratification and management. This study provides a comparative analysis of electrolyte homeostasis, renal function, and lipid metabolism across these conditions. A hospital-based, cross-sectional study was conducted involving 60 participants recruited from ESUT Teaching Hospital, Enugu, and categorized into four age-matched groups: HTN (n=15), RD (n=15), comorbid HTN/RD (n=15), and healthy controls (n=15). Serum electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate), urea, creatinine, and a full lipid profile were quantified using standardized automated and manual spectrophotometric methods. The comorbid HTN/RD group exhibited the most profound dysregulation, characterized by severe azotemia with creatinine levels elevated over 50-fold (303.43 ± 289.62 μmol/L) compared to controls (52.00 ± 10.28 μmol/L). While electrolyte imbalances were subtle, a significant inter-group variance in sodium was observed. Lipid profiling revealed a specific atherogenic phenotype in renal and comorbid groups, marked by significant hypertriglyceridemia (1.57 ± 0.91 and 1.49 ± 0.74 mmol/L, respectively, vs. 1.05 ± 0.35 mmol/L in controls; p=0.046), without concomitant alterations in LDL or total cholesterol. These findings delineate the most severe deterioration of renal function and a unique lipidemic pattern in comorbid patients, underscoring the necessity for integrated biochemical monitoring that includes triglyceride surveillance alongside renal parameters to mitigate the accelerated cardiorenal risk in this population.

Acute oral toxicity study, phytochemical profile and the anti-diarrheal effect of chloroform extract of Stuckenia pectinata on castor oil-induced diarrhea in rats

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study investigated the safety, phytochemical composition, and anti-diarrheal efficacy of the chloroform extract of Stuckenia pectinata using a castor oil–induced diarrhea model in rats. Qualitative screening revealed the presence of saponins, cardiac glycosides, alkaloids, terpenoids, and steroids, whereas flavonoids, tannins, phenolic compounds, and phlobatannins were not detected. Quantitative analysis showed tannins as the most abundant constituent (1.06 ± 0.04 mg/g TAE), followed by alkaloids (1.00 ± 0.07 mg/g ATE), with phenols (0.73 ± 0.05 mg/g GAE) and flavonoids (0.68 ± 0.03 mg/g CAE) present at lower levels, reflecting a chemically diverse extract. Acute oral toxicity assessment determined a median lethal dose (LD₅₀) of 1264.91 mg/kg, indicating moderate safety, and an effective dose was estimated at 126.49 mg/kg. Administration of the extract significantly reduced stool frequency and fecal output (p < 0.05) compared to the untreated control, with inhibition comparable to loperamide at 3 mg/kg. The anti-diarrheal activity is likely mediated by the combined effects of alkaloids, saponins, terpenoids, and steroids, which modulate intestinal motility, secretion, and electrolyte transport. Overall, the findings demonstrate that the chloroform extract of Stuckenia pectinata possesses substantial pharmacological potential as a plant-derived anti-diarrheal agent while exhibiting a favorable safety profile, providing a foundation for its further development in traditional and complementary medicine.

Ameliorative effect of methanol extract of Tectona grandis leaves on cyclophosphamide-induced cardiotoxicity in Wistar rats

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Cyclophosphamide is a therapeutic agent with an extensive clinical application. It is used in treating acute and chronic leukaemia, lymphomas, multiple myeloma, rheumatoid arthritis and in preparation for bone marrow transplantation. However, cyclophosphamide has numerous organ toxicities that have limited its clinical use. The study aimed to investigate the ameliorative effect of the methanol extract of Tectona grandis leaf on cyclophosphamide-induced cardiotoxicity. Twenty female Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups (n=5). Cardiac toxicity was induced in Wistar rats by administering cyclophosphamide 50 mg/kg BW IP daily for three days. Tectona grandis leaf extract (200 and 400 mg/kg) was orally administered immediately after cyclophosphamide treatment on the fourth day for 21 days. The control group received only feed and water. After the 21-day treatment, the rats were euthanized under anesthesia to obtain blood for biochemical analysis. Histopathological evaluation was also conducted. Data was analyzed using the statistical package GraphPad Prism version 8.0.2. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post hoc test were carried out. Cyclophosphamide administration significantly elevated (p<0.05) the troponin level and activities of creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase compared with the control. Additionally, the cyclophosphamide alone-treated group showed elevated levels of malondialdehyde, reduced activities of antioxidant enzymes- superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase and abnormal changes in lipid profile status compared with the control and other treatment groups. Treatment with methanol T. grandis leaf extract (MTGLE) reversed the changes by significantly (p<0.05) reducing the levels of troponin and malondialdehyde, increasing the activities of creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase, superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase while restoring the lipid profile of cyclophosphamide- induced rats. The result of the histopathological examination showed an improvement in the cardiac histo- architecture of MTGLE-treated groups, which supports the findings of the biochemical investigation. This suggests that Tectona grandis may possess a promising ameliorative effect against cyclophosphamide- induced cardiotoxicity in rats.

Formulation and Physicochemical Characterization of ChitosanCoated Simvastatin Nanoparticles

Vincent Eric O. Ozougwu, Bartholomew O. Okolo, Amaechi L. Ogara — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Simvastatin is an effective antihyperlipidemic agent whose clinical utility is limited by poor aqueous solubility, low gastrointestinal absorption, and extensive first-pass metabolism, resulting in reduced oral bioavailability. This study aimed to formulate and characterize chitosan-coated simvastatin nanoparticles as a strategy to improve its physicochemical performance and controlled release properties. Nanoparticles were prepared using the ionic gelation method involving electrostatic interaction between chitosan and sodium tripolyphosphate. The developed formulation was evaluated by in vitro drug release studies, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The release profile demonstrated a biphasic pattern with an initial burst release during the early phase, followed by sustained drug release reaching approximately 70–75% over 300 minutes, indicating effective controlled-release behavior. SEM analysis showed clear morphological transformation from loosely aggregated crystalline simvastatin particles to denser and more cohesive nanoparticulate structures after chitosan coating, confirming successful encapsulation. FTIR spectra retained the characteristic peaks of both simvastatin and chitosan with only minor shifts in band positions, suggesting structural integrity of the drug and absence of significant chemical incompatibility between formulation components. The combined findings indicate that chitosan coating improved the physicochemical characteristics of simvastatin while providing sustained release potential. Therefore, chitosan-coated simvastatin nanoparticles represent a promising oral nanocarrier system for enhancing simvastatin delivery and therapeutic performance.

Stability and expression levels of miR-130b, miR-138 and miR-155 for age and gender prediction in Igbo and Yoruba populations of Nigeria

Onyekachi O. Iroanya, Amaka Juliet Nwodo, Uchenna D. Abazuh, Tochukwu F. Egwuatu — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Age estimation remains a major challenge in forensic investigations, particularly when biological evidence lacks contextual information. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as promising molecular markers due to their tissue specificity and relative stability. This study investigated the stability and expression patterns of selected skin-specific miRNAs (miR-130b, miR-138 and miR-155) for age and gender prediction among individuals from Igbo and Yoruba ethnic groups in Nigeria. Skin swab samples were collected from fifty healthy adult volunteers (25 Igbo and 25 Yoruba), aged 20–40 years. Total RNA was extracted using the TRIzol® protocol, followed by spectrophotometric assessment of RNA purity and concentration. Complementary DNA synthesis and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) were performed using LunaScript RT Supermix and Luna Universal qPCR Master Mix, respectively. GAPDH and ACTB were used as reference genes. Statistical analyses were conducted using IBM SPSS (version 26), including descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, analysis of variance and linear regression. RNA purity values were generally within acceptable limits across all samples. miR-130b showed stable expression across age groups, genders and ethnicities, whereas miR-138 and miR-155 exhibited variable expression patterns. Linear regression analysis revealed a significant association between miR-130b expression and age in Yoruba females (p<0.05). Additionally, miR-155 and miR-138 showed significant associations with age across all genders (p<0.05). The findings suggest that miR-130b is a stable skin biomarker suitable for forensic identification of skin swab samples, while miR-155 and miR-138 demonstrate potential for age and gender prediction. Further studies with larger population sizes are recommended to validate these biomarkers for forensic applications.