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All Journal African Multidisciplinary Journal of Sciences and Artificial Intelligence Open Access DRIVERset African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Open Access DRIVERset African Journal of Sciences and Traditional Medicine Open Access DRIVERset Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology Open Access DRIVERset African Journal of Clinical Medicine and Pharmacy Research African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research
Isaac John Umaru
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Agriculture, Biological Sciences & Forestry Biochemistry, Genetics & Molecular Biology Chemical Engineering, Chemistry & Bioengineering Chemistry Environmental Science Health Professions Immunology & microbiology Law, Crime, Criminology & Criminal Justice Materials Science & Nanotechnology Medicine & Pharmacology Nursing Public Health Social Sciences

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Potential of the Ethanol Extract of Luffa Leaves in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Wistar Rats Ogana Moses Miracle; Isaac John Umaru; Philip Shadrach
African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Vol 3 No 2 (2026): African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajbmbr.v3i2.10341

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder associated with hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, oxidative stress, and progressive damage to vital organs. This study investigated the antidiabetic and biochemical effects of ethanol extract of Luffa acutangula leaves in streptozotocin-induced diabetic Wistar rats. Fresh leaves of Luffa acutangula were collected, authenticated, air-dried, pulverized, and extracted with 95% ethanol using maceration. Twenty-five adult male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to five groups: normal control, diabetic control, diabetic rats treated with metformin, and diabetic rats treated with 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg ethanol extract of Luffa acutangula leaves. Diabetes was induced through a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin at 50 mg/kg body weight, and treatments were administered orally for 14 days. Blood glucose levels, liver function enzymes, bilirubin fractions, serum proteins, kidney function markers, electrolytes, and lipid profile parameters were evaluated. The findings showed that streptozotocin induction increased blood glucose levels, liver enzymes, renal biomarkers, and lipid abnormalities in diabetic rats. Treatment with Luffa acutangula leaf extract reduced blood glucose levels from 210.20 ± 7.30 to 140.50 ± 10.60 mg/dL at 200 mg/kg and from 198.60 ± 7.80 to 130.40 ± 9.80 mg/dL at 400 mg/kg. The extract also improved selected liver function markers, reduced creatinine levels, and ameliorated lipid profile disturbances, particularly total cholesterol and triglycerides. However, the elevated urea levels observed in extract-treated groups indicate the need for further renal safety evaluation. Overall, ethanol extract of Luffa acutangula leaves demonstrated promising antihyperglycemic, hepatoprotective, and hypolipidemic effects in diabetic rats, providing preclinical evidence for its potential relevance in managing diabetes-related metabolic complications.
Protective Effects of Ethanol Extract of Chrysophyllum albidum Stem Bark on Antioxidant Enzymes and Lipid Peroxidation Induced Kidney Toxicity in Albino Rats Exposed to Bonny Light Crude Oil Jemimah Hebrew; Markus Audu; Isaac John Umaru
African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Vol 3 No 2 (2026): African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajbmbr.v3i2.10475

Abstract

Exposure to petroleum hydrocarbons such as Bonny Light crude oil (BLCO) is associated with oxidative stress and organ toxicity, particularly renal damage. Chrysophyllum albidum is a medicinal plant rich in antioxidant phytochemicals, yet its protective role against crude-oil-induced renal oxidative injury remains insufficiently explored. This study evaluated the effect of ethanol extract of C. albidum stem bark on renal antioxidant enzyme activity and lipid peroxidation in Wistar rats exposed to BLCO. Wistar rats were assigned to control, BLCO-only, and BLCO plus C. albidum extract treatment groups. Renal tissues were analyzed for catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase activities, as well as malondialdehyde levels as a marker of lipid peroxidation. The findings showed that BLCO exposure significantly reduced catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase activities and markedly increased malondialdehyde levels compared with the control group, p < .05. Treatment with C. albidum extract produced a dose-dependent increase in antioxidant enzyme activities and significantly reduced malondialdehyde levels relative to the BLCO-only group, p < .05, indicating attenuation of renal oxidative stress. The study concludes that ethanol extract of C. albidum stem bark exhibits antioxidant and nephroprotective effects against BLCO-induced renal oxidative damage. These findings contribute to toxicological and phytomedicinal research by highlighting the potential of C. albidum to enhance endogenous antioxidant defenses and suppress lipid peroxidation in crude-oil-related kidney toxicity.
Neurotoxic Effect of Cassava Cyanide on the Motor Activity and Cytoarchitecture of the Cerebellar Cortex of Albino Rats Isaac John Umaru; Tyem Lawal Danjuma; Katchim Evelyn Shadrach; Julius Ishaya Salman; Jibaniya Grace Mchibuma; Kerenhappuch Isaac Umaru
African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Vol 3 No 1 (2026): African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajbmbr.v3i1.8299

Abstract

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz), a widely consumed staple in tropical regions, contains cyanogenic glycosides that release hydrogen cyanide (HCN) upon hydrolysis. Chronic exposure to cassava-derived cyanide has been implicated in neurodegenerative disorders, particularly affecting motor coordination and cerebellar function. This study investigates the neurotoxic effects of cassava cyanide on motor activity and cerebellar cytoarchitecture in albino Wistar rats. Thirty adult male rats were divided into three groups: control, low-dose cyanide (10 mg/kg), and high-dose cyanide (20 mg/kg), administered orally for 15 days. Motor performance was assessed using rotarod and open field tests, while cerebellar tissues were examined histologically using hematoxylin and eosin staining. Results revealed a dose-dependent decline in motor coordination and locomotor activity, with significant reductions in rotarod latency and open field distance in cyanide-treated groups compared to controls (p < 0.05). Histological analysis showed progressive Purkinje cell degeneration, vacuolation, and disrupted laminar architecture in the cerebellar cortex, particularly in the high-dose group. These findings suggest that cassava cyanide exerts neurotoxic effects on cerebellar neurons, impairing motor function through structural damage. The study underscores the importance of safe cassava processing and dietary interventions to mitigate cyanide-induced neurotoxicity in vulnerable populations.
Exploring the Use of Antenatal and Maternity Services by Mothers Engaged in Child Welfare Programs in Michika LGA, Adamawa State Isaac John Umaru; Solomon O. Asare; Tyem Lawal Danjuma; Julius Ishaya Salman; Ingwu Joseph Akem; Genevieve A. Yeboah; Prince Osei Akumia; Hauwa A. Umaru; Maryam Usman Ahmed
African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Vol 3 No 1 (2026): African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajbmbr.v3i1.9302

Abstract

Maternal health remains a critical public health concern in Nigeria, where high rates of maternal morbidity and mortality persist despite ongoing interventions. This study aimed to assess the level of awareness and utilization of maternal health services among women in Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria, to identify key barriers to service uptake, and to evaluate the influence of child welfare programs on antenatal care utilization. A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted among 250 women of reproductive age using structured questionnaires. Data were collected on socio-demographic characteristics, antenatal and maternity service utilization, barriers to access, and participation in child welfare programs, and were analyzed using descriptive statistics to generate frequencies and percentages. The findings showed that 85% of respondents were aware of antenatal services and 80% attended antenatal care during their last pregnancy; however, only 30% completed more than four visits. Skilled birth attendance was reported by 68% of respondents, whereas 16% delivered at home or with traditional birth attendants, and 60% received post-natal care. The major barriers to service utilization included distance to health facilities (60%), financial constraints (44%), lack of transportation (36%), poor attitude of health workers (28%), cultural and religious beliefs (24%), and lack of awareness (16%). In addition, women who participated in child welfare programs were 30% more likely to utilize antenatal services. These findings indicate that, despite relatively high awareness, maternal health service utilization remains suboptimal because of intersecting structural, economic, and sociocultural barriers. The study underscores the need to strengthen health infrastructure, improve transportation access, subsidize care, and expand community-based interventions, while also addressing cultural beliefs and health worker attitudes to improve maternal health outcomes in rural Nigeria.
Effects of Methanol Leaf and Root Extracts of Lophira lanceolata on Haematological Indices and Tissue Histology in Bitis arietans Venom-Induced Toxicity in Wistar Rats Emmanuel Askeb-nde Joel; Isaac John Umaru; Kyugah Jacob Tersur; Sukyakma Manu
African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Vol 3 No 1 (2026): African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajbmbr.v3i1.9306

Abstract

Snakebite envenomation frequently causes severe haematological disturbances through venom-induced haemotoxicity and systemic inflammatory responses. This study investigated the restorative effects of methanol leaf and root extracts of Lophira lanceolata on haematological indices in Bitis arietans venom-intoxicated Wistar rats. Thirty-six male rats were assigned to six groups: normal control, venom control, venom plus antiserum, venom plus leaf extract (200 mg/kg), venom plus root extract (200 mg/kg), and venom plus combined extracts. After 14 days of treatment, blood samples were analyzed for white blood cells, red blood cells, haemoglobin, platelets, and haematocrit. Venom intoxication induced significant leukocytosis, anaemia, thrombocytopenia, and reduced haematocrit, whereas treatment with L. lanceolata extracts, particularly the root extract, significantly improved these parameters toward normal levels. The root extract restored white blood cells to 8.40 ± 0.38 × 10⁹/L, red blood cells to 7.65 ± 0.30 × 10¹²/L, haemoglobin to 6.80 ± 0.20 g/dL, platelets to 425.50 ± 19.26 × 10⁹/L, and haematocrit to 20.50 ± 1.13%, indicating superior haematoprotective and anti-inflammatory effects relative to the leaf extract. Histological examination further confirmed these findings, showing that the extracts, especially the root, ameliorated venom-induced necrosis, hemorrhage, and congestion in liver and kidney tissues. These findings suggest that Lophira lanceolata, particularly its root extract, has therapeutic potential as a complementary intervention for managing snakebite-induced haematological disorders and tissue damage.
Prevalence of Malnutrition Among Children Under Five in Iware, Taraba State Isaac John Umaru; Solomon O. Asare; Tyem Lawal Danjuma; Atsu Ayi; Ingwu Joseph Akem; Usenobong Morgan Akpan; Julius Ishaya Salman; George Okra Hassan; Maryam Usman Ahmed; Hauwa A. Umaru
African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Vol 3 No 2 (2026): African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajbmbr.v3i2.9473

Abstract

Malnutrition remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, particularly among children under five years of age, with serious consequences for morbidity, mortality, cognitive development, and long-term human capital. In rural communities such as Iware, Taraba State, this burden is intensified by poverty, poor feeding practices, limited access to healthcare, and low caregiver education. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of stunting, wasting, and underweight among children aged 0–59 months in Iware and to examine the associations between nutritional status and socio-economic factors, including household income, caregiver education, feeding practices, and recent illness episodes, while also assessing the coverage of exclusive breastfeeding and vitamin A supplementation. A cross-sectional design was employed, with a sample size estimated using Cochran’s formula at 200–400 children. A multistage sampling technique was used in which households were randomly selected and eligible children were stratified by age group. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire on socio-demographic characteristics, feeding practices, and household conditions, alongside anthropometric measurements of weight, height/length, and mid-upper arm circumference, with nutritional status classified according to WHO Growth Standards. Data collection was conducted over 2–4 weeks by trained enumerators following a pilot study, and the data were analyzed using SPSS and STATA through descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression. The findings revealed a high prevalence of malnutrition, with stunting at 35%, underweight at 30%, and wasting at 25%. Although 60% of children were exclusively breastfed and 65% had received vitamin A supplementation, 42.5% had experienced recent illness. Socio-economic findings further showed that 72.5% of households earned below ₦30,000 per month and that 20% of caregivers had no formal education. Statistical analysis indicated significant associations between malnutrition and low household income, poor caregiver education, and inadequate complementary feeding practices (p < 0.05). The study concludes that malnutrition among children under five in Iware is driven by the combined effects of chronic poverty, limited maternal education, suboptimal feeding practices, and frequent illness. These findings underscore the need for multi-sectoral interventions focused on nutrition education, economic empowerment, improved healthcare access, and community-based strategies tailored to rural populations.
Protective Effects of Methanolic Extracts of *Calotropis gigantea* Leaves, Stem Bark and Roots against Diabetes-Induced Hepatic and Renal Dysfunction in Streptozotocin-Induced Albino Rats Mercy iliya Tumba; Isaac John Umaru; Chinedu Imo
African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Vol 3 No 3 (2026): African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajbmbr.v3i3.11830

Abstract

Calotropis gigantea is widely used in traditional medicine, but comparative evidence concerning the antidiabetic and organ-protective effects of its different anatomical parts remains limited. This study evaluated the phytochemical constituents and therapeutic effects of methanolic extracts derived from the leaves, stem bark, and roots of C. gigantea in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic albino rats. Plant materials were air-dried, pulverized, extracted through cold maceration in methanol for 72 hours, and concentrated using a rotary evaporator. Phytochemical constituents were characterized by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Thirty-six male albino rats were randomly allocated to six groups: normal control, diabetic control, metformin-treated (100 mg/kg), and leaf-, stem-bark-, and root-extract-treated groups (100 mg/kg each). Treatments were administered for 14 days. Fasting blood glucose, liver and kidney function indices, and lipid profiles were assessed, alongside histopathological examination of liver and kidney tissues. GC–MS identified several bioactive constituents, including 7-octen-2-ol, α-terpineol, and D-limonene. Diabetes induction increased fasting blood glucose from 4.93 ± 0.25 to 16.14 ± 0.98 mmol/L, with concentrations remaining elevated in untreated diabetic rats. All extracts significantly reduced blood glucose, while the root extract produced the greatest reduction, from 15.37 ± 1.10 to 8.93 ± 1.94 mmol/L, comparable to the response observed with metformin. The root and leaf extracts produced the strongest improvements in renal function indices. The leaf extract yielded the most pronounced reductions in alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase activities and improved the lipid profile by reducing serum triglyceride and cholesterol concentrations while increasing high-density lipoprotein concentrations. Histopathological findings corroborated the biochemical results, demonstrating reduced hepatic and renal tissue damage in treated animals. These findings indicate that C. gigantea extracts, particularly those obtained from the roots and leaves, possess antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, and lipid-modulating potential, supporting their further pharmacological evaluation for managing diabetes-associated complications.
Intermediary Metabolism of Proteins and Recent Advances Isaac John Umaru; Hauwa A Umaru; Maryam Usman Ahmed; Kerenhappuch Isaac Umaru
African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Vol 3 No 3 (2026): African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajbmbr.v3i3.12063

Abstract

Protein metabolism is fundamental to human physiology, integrating dietary protein digestion and absorption, amino acid catabolism, nitrogen disposal, biosynthesis, regulatory signalling, and systemic adaptation. This review synthesizes foundational biochemical knowledge and recent advances to clarify the organization, regulation, clinical significance, and emerging applications of protein metabolism. It examines amino acid degradation and biosynthetic functions, tissue-specific metabolic processes, hormonal control, and nitrogen elimination, including vulnerabilities manifested in phenylketonuria, maple syrup urine disease, and urea cycle defects. Recent molecular research demonstrates that amino acids function not only as metabolic substrates but also as signalling molecules that influence gene expression, cellular growth, and immune function through regulatory pathways involving the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Proteomics and metabolomics have further enabled system-level characterization of protein turnover and metabolic flux, while CRISPR-based gene editing offers potential strategies for correcting inherited enzyme deficiencies. These developments have expanded the clinical relevance of protein metabolism to cancer, diabetes, sarcopenia, nutritional interventions, and personalized medicine. The integration of multi-omics data with systems biology, computational modelling, and network analysis may improve predictions of metabolic flux, pathway regulation, and therapeutic responses. This review concludes that protein metabolism constitutes a dynamic interface connecting biochemistry, physiology, disease mechanisms, and precision health. By integrating classical metabolic pathways with contemporary molecular and computational approaches, it provides a framework for understanding current biomedical applications and guiding future developments in disease prevention, diagnosis, and targeted therapy.
Impact of Breast Cancer Awareness Programmes on Prevention of Breast Cancer Using Artificial Intelligence among Nigerian Women Atabo Amodu; Isaac John Umaru; Chakfa Nanmar; Kerenhappuch Isaac Umaru
African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Vol 3 No 3 (2026): African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajbmbr.v3i3.12144

Abstract

Breast cancer remains a major cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality among women in Nigeria, where late presentation, limited screening infrastructure, and sociocultural barriers contribute to poor health outcomes. This study evaluates the effectiveness of Coursiv AI, a localized and adaptive artificial intelligence platform, in improving breast cancer awareness and prevention, with particular attention to older women. A mixed-methods design was employed across four regions of Nigeria, involving 2,000 women who participated in surveys and focus group discussions. The findings indicate that Coursiv AI significantly improved breast cancer awareness, screening uptake, and participation among older women compared with traditional outreach approaches. Its predictive analytics, caregiver-support modules, and multilingual interfaces in Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, and Pidgin English were particularly useful in addressing literacy barriers and mobility constraints. Nevertheless, regional disparities persisted, with higher adoption in western and southern regions and lower uptake in northern areas, where stigma and limited trust in technology remained important barriers. Comparative analysis further demonstrated the platform’s strengths in cultural adaptation and accessibility relative to global artificial intelligence tools requiring more advanced infrastructure, while ethical compliance was reported to be high despite regional variation in user trust. The study also situates these digital-health developments alongside the emergence of kwagheticin, a novel anticancer drug developed in Nigeria, highlighting the potential complementarity between locally adapted artificial intelligence interventions and indigenous therapeutic innovation. The study concludes that culturally responsive artificial intelligence platforms can strengthen breast cancer awareness, screening participation, and accessibility, particularly among older women. It contributes to digital health and cancer prevention research by demonstrating the potential value of integrating localized artificial intelligence, caregiver support, multilingual communication, and indigenous therapeutic innovation within strategies aimed at reducing late-stage diagnosis and improving breast cancer outcomes in Nigeria.
Herbal Formulation of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea), Chamomile (Matricaria recutita), and Saffron (Crocus sativus) in the Management of Geriatric Depression in Outpatient Clinics Atabo Amodu; Isaac John Umaru; Chakfa Nanmar
African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research Vol 3 No 3 (2026): African Journal of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajbmbr.v3i3.12145

Abstract

Depression among older adults is an increasing public health concern, particularly in resource-constrained settings such as Nigeria, where access to specialized psychiatric care remains limited and conventional antidepressant therapy may be complicated by polypharmacy and adverse effects. This study explores the potential of a combined herbal formulation containing equal proportions of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea), Chamomile (Matricaria recutita), and Saffron (Crocus sativus) as an adjunct to outpatient management of mild to moderate geriatric depression. A pilot observational study was conducted in outpatient clinics in Lagos, Nigeria, involving 60 participants aged 65 years and above who received the herbal formulation alongside routine counseling for eight weeks. Outcomes were assessed using the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI), and measures of functional independence. The findings show a 33.5% reduction in GDS scores, a 37.7% improvement in PSQI scores, a 33.6% reduction in caregiver burden, and a 15.7% increase in functional independence over the intervention period. Reported adverse events were mild and transient, consisting primarily of gastrointestinal discomfort and dizziness, suggesting acceptable short-term tolerability within the study population. These findings indicate that the combined herbal formulation, when used alongside routine counseling, may have potential as a culturally acceptable and comparatively accessible adjunctive approach for managing geriatric depression in resource-limited outpatient settings. However, given the observational pilot design, the findings should be interpreted as preliminary rather than causal evidence of efficacy. The study contributes to emerging research on integrative approaches to geriatric mental healthcare in Nigeria and highlights the need for adequately powered randomized controlled trials to evaluate efficacy, safety, and long-term outcomes before broader clinical or policy integration is considered.
Co-Authors Atabo Amodu Atsu Ayi Bemhemba Iba Chakfa Nanmar Chinedu Imo Eluu Emmanuel Chukwudi Emmanuel Askeb-nde Joel Emmanuel Olofu Omanchi Evelyn Ovenomo Tony-Enwin Genevieve A. Yeboah George Okra Hassan Gomba Victoria Eno Hauwa A Umaru Hauwa A. Umaru Inemesit Samuel Essien Ingwu Joseph Akem Jemimah Hebrew Jibaniya Grace Mchibuma Joseph Oteng Julius Ishaya Salman Katchim Evelyn Shadrach Katchin Evelyn Shadrach Kerenhappuch Isaac Umaru Kwabena Owusu Amoah Kyugah Jacob Tersur Maayam Usman Ahmed Markus Audu Maryam Usman Ahmed Mercy iliya Tumba Ogana Moses Miracle Philip Shadrach Precious Chioma Jack Prince Osei Akumia Solomon O. Asare Sukyakma Manu Tyem Lawal Danjuma Usenobong Morgan Akpan