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Phytochemical, Nutraceutical Profiles and Potential of Soursop Leaf Extract (Annona muricata) on Bacterial Meningitis Isaac John Umaru; Tyem Lawal Danjuma; Katchim Evelyn Shadrach; Julius Ishaya Salman; Jibaniya Grace Mchibuma; Kerenhappuch Isaac Umaru
African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 3 No 1 (2026): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v3i1.8300

Abstract

The rise of multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogens has intensified the search for alternative antimicrobial agents. Annona muricata (soursop), a tropical medicinal plant, has demonstrated promising antibacterial properties attributed to its rich phytochemical profile. However, the mechanistic basis of its antibacterial action remains underexplored. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the mechanistic effects of A. muricata leaf extract on key bacterial targets, including cell wall integrity, membrane permeability, protein leakage, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, DNA fragmentation, and quorum sensing interference, using E. coli, S. aureus, and P. aeruginosa as representative strains. Materials and Methods: Fresh A. muricata leaves were extracted using ethanol and tested at a concentration of 100 mg/mL. Bacterial cultures were subjected to six mechanistic assays: crystal violet staining for cell wall integrity, propidium iodide and NPN fluorescence for membrane permeability, SDS-PAGE for protein synthesis inhibition, Bradford assay for protein leakage, DCFH-DA assay for ROS generation, and violacein quantification using the CV026 biosensor for quorum sensing interference. Ciprofloxacin served as a positive control, and untreated cultures served as a negative control. Results: The extract caused significant cell wall disruption (62.4%), comparable to ciprofloxacin (75.6%). Membrane permeability increased markedly, with PI and NPN fluorescence levels reaching 60–80% across strains. Protein leakage was elevated, with extracellular protein concentrations ranging from 25–30 µg/mL. SDS-PAGE revealed a 48.3–52.7% reduction in protein bands, indicating inhibition of protein synthesis. ROS levels surged to 8,000–9,500 RFU in treated samples, suggesting oxidative stress. DNA integrity scores dropped to 1–2, confirming genotoxic effects. Quorum sensing was inhibited by 68.9%, reducing violacein production and potential virulence. Conclusion: Annona muricata leaf extract exhibits potent antibacterial activity through multiple mechanisms, including structural disruption, metabolic interference, and oxidative damage. Its efficacy, comparable to ciprofloxacin in several assays, highlights its potential as a natural antimicrobial agent. These findings support further investigation into its bioactive compounds and therapeutic applications in combating resistant bacterial infections.
Evaluation of Malaria and Typhoid Coinfection Among Patients at Yola General Hospital, Adamawa State Isaac John Umaru; Ingwu Joseph Akem; Solomon O. Asare; Tyem Lawal Danjuma; Usenobong Morgan Akpan; Julius Ishaya Salman; Hauwa A. Umaru; Maryam Usman Ahmed
African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research Vol 3 No 2 (2026): African Journal of Medicine, Surgery and Public Health Research
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/ajmsphr.v3i2.9403

Abstract

Although malaria and typhoid fever remain highly prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, evidence on the prevalence and clinical profile of coinfection in northeastern Nigeria remains limited. This study evaluated the burden and characteristics of malaria and typhoid coinfection among febrile patients attending Yola General Hospital in Adamawa State. A cross-sectional design was employed involving 300 patients presenting with febrile illness. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and laboratory diagnostics. Malaria was diagnosed using rapid diagnostic tests and microscopy, whereas typhoid fever was assessed using the Widal test and blood cultures. Demographic, clinical, and behavioral data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to identify significant associations. The findings showed that 102 patients (34%) had malaria only, 78 (26%) had typhoid only, and 54 (18%) were coinfected. Coinfection was most prevalent among individuals aged 21–40 years (55.6%) and was slightly more common in males (55.6%) than females (44.4%). The most frequently reported symptoms among coinfected patients were fever (100%), headache (88.9%), abdominal pain (77.8%), and diarrhea (66.7%). Behavioral risk factors, including inconsistent mosquito net use, poor hand hygiene, and consumption of untreated water, were significantly associated with infection. Coinfection rates also peaked during the rainy season from June to September, accounting for 74.1% of cases. The study concludes that malaria and typhoid coinfection constitutes a substantial clinical and public health burden in Yola. These findings contribute empirical evidence on the demographic, symptomatic, behavioral, and seasonal profile of coinfected patients and highlight the need for dual diagnostic screening, improved laboratory infrastructure, and targeted health education on hygiene and vector control.