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Original Research Article
ABSTRACT
Anemia is a disease condition associated with reduced blood levels of red blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit and alteration other hematological indices, leading to decreased ability to transport oxygen in the body. It can be precipitated by many risk factors that may occur independently or concurrently. Tradomedicinal practice claims to treat anemia by use of herbal plants which are readily available, accessible and affordable when compared to pharmaceutical drugs. This work therefore sought to pharmacologically study the anti-anemic activity of a spice plant (Piper guineense) on phenylhydrazine-induced anemia in wistar rats. This was done by randomizing thirty adult male wistar rats into six groups (1-6) of five animals per group, measuring their hematological indices before (at day 0) and after (at day 7, 14 and 21) induction of anemia with phenylhydrazine (40 mg/kg, i.p.). Groups 1, 2 and 3 respectively served as normal, negative and positive control, while groups 4, 5 and 6 received Piper guineense leaf extract at 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg respectively. The results of this study shows that Piper guineense leaf extract particularly at medium and high doses, and with respect to negative control, ameliorates phenylhydrazine-induced alterations on hematological indices, by producing significant (p<0.05) lesser percentage decrease in blood levels red blood cells, hemoglobin and hematocrit, as well as exhibiting significant (p<0.05) lesser percentage increase in blood levels of other hematological indices analysed in this study. The results also indicate that Piper guineense leaf extract when compared to positive control, produces insignificant (p>0.05) activity, particularly at days 14 and 21. This study provides a robust scientific validation of tradomedicinal claim on Piper guineense leaf as anti-anemic agent, therefore recommends further studies that will unveil the bioactive principle(s) and the molecular mechanism/pathway responsible for the observed activity.
Original Research Article
ABSTRACT
The present investigation compares the in vitro phytochemical composition and biological activities of extracts from Dalbergia oliveri and Lagerstroemia speciosa. Qualitative phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of various secondary metabolites, including alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and terpenoids in both extracts. Antibacterial evaluation against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa indicated that D. oliveri displayed superior inhibitory activity. Collectively, the results demonstrate that both plant species exhibit substantial phytochemical and bioactive potential, supporting their relevance in the development of natural antimicrobial therapies.
Original Research Article
ABSTRACT
Background: Inflammation denotes the body's standard physiological response to tissue damage. The injury may stem from physical or mechanical damage, trauma, autoimmune response, microbial invasion, or burns. Inflammation may be classified as either acute or chronic. Ziziphus jujube (ZJ), also known as Chinese date or Indian ber, is a widely researched medicinal plant due to its abundant phytochemical content, which may promote a healthy diet. It is a medium-sized indigenous plant belonging to the Rhamnaceae family. Ziziphus jujube (Z. jujube) is traditionally employed by locals to address dandruff, arthritis, chronic constipation, acne, antibacterial concerns, and cardiac ailments. Jujube comprises several constituents, such as flavonoids, triterpenic acids, amino acids, cerebrosides, mineral elements, phenolic acids, and polysaccharides. Aim: This study seeks to examine the effectiveness of Ziziphus jujuba flavonoid and terpenoid against COX-2 & 12- LOX to clarify their anti-inflammatory potential. Method: COX-2 & 12- LOX was chosen as the target proteins in the current investigation. The bond was found using the Auto Dock software using a grid-based docking method. Compounds' 2D structures were generated, converted to 3D, and subsequently energetically lowered up to an arms gradient of 0.01 using the Merck Molecular Force Field (MMFF). Result: Flavonoids (isoquercetrin) and terpenoid (zizyberanolic acid) of Z.jujuba effectively binds to be target protein COX-2 & 12-LOX respectively with binding energy -5.46 & -5.95 kcalmol-1 respectively. Conclusion: The finding of the in-silico molecular docking showed that both lead compound is effective binds & inhibitory action on target protein. The molecular docking outcome revealed that isoquercetrin binds COX2 whereas zizyberanolic acid binds 12-LOX, thereby suppressed the synthesis of PGs and ILs.
Original Research Article
Effect of Combined Anaesthetic Agents on Serum Electrolytes and Plasma Proteins in Male Wistar Rats
Confidence W. Ihua, John N. Paul, Chukwuebuka N. Ohanenye, Deborah A. Umogbai, Udo Orukwowu, Mercy K. Azumah, Mao E. Bunu, W. Koikoibo, C. Mandah, E. E. Chukwuka, Ngozi M. O. Elenwo
EAS J Pharm Pharmacol, 2025; 7(6): 120-125
https://doi.org/10.36349/easjpp.2025.v07i06.003
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ABSTRACT
Background: Anaesthetic agents are gaining popularity in the world of diagnostic and surgical procedures, but little is known about their combined biochemical action. This paper compared the impacts of ketamine and lidocaine given alone and in combination with each other on serum electrolytes and plasma proteins in male Wistar rats. Methodology: 35 male Wistar rats randomized to five groups (n=6): control, lidocaine, lidocaine with adrenaline, ketamine, and ketamine with lidocaine. The samples of blood were taken out at the end of the experimental period by cardiac puncture. Automated biochemical methods were done to determine serum electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium), plasma proteins (total protein, albumin, globulin, fibrinogen). The data were presented in the form of mean ± SEM and compared by a one-way ANOVA with p=0.05. Results: Lidocaine adrenaline and ketamine had a significant impact on serum potassium levels in comparison with the control group, making it prone to hyperkalemia. Ketamine too raised serum calcium, total and globulin and fibrinogen levels significantly but albumin was not altered significantly. The level of Na+ and Cl were found to have small, non significant differences among the groups. Discussion: The observed case of hyperkalemia after administration of ketamine and lidocaine combined with adrenaline indicates the disruption of the ion transportation process on the membrane, and causes the concern of cardiovascular issues, particularly in patients with an underlying electrolyte disturbance, or with medications that inhibit the ion transport. The rise in the levels of calcium and globulin after the exposure of ketamine also points to the possible metabolic and inflammatory regulation. Conclusion: Ketamine and lidocaine combined and administered separately produce a significant change in serum potassium, calcium, and plasma protein. The use of these agents should hence be cautious especially among those individuals who are in
Original Research Article
ABSTRACT
Background: The Transdermal drug delivery system (TDDS) was created to enhance drug release sustainability, increase drug bioavailability, and improve patient compliance. Matrix dispersion transdermal patches distribute the drug in a solvent with polymers, and then the solvent evaporates to create a uniform drug-polymer matrix. The aim of this study was to create and develop transdermal drug delivery systems (TDDS) containing granisetron hydrochloride and assess its prolonged release in laboratory conditions. Materials and Methods: The study aims to develop a matrix-type transdermal treatment system that includes granisetron hydrochloride using different ratios of hydrophilic and hydrophobic polymer combinations through the solvent evaporation process. Results: Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was employed to investigate the physicochemical compatibility of the drug with the polymers. The results showed that there was no physical-chemical incompatibility between the drug and the polymers. The patches were subjected to further physical evaluations and in-vitro permeation studies. Conclusions: The patches containing Carbopol 934P and ethylcellulose, along with span 80 as the penetration enhancer, were identified as the most effective formulations for transdermal delivery of granisetron hydrochloride based on physical evaluation and in-vitro studies.
Original Research Article
ABSTRACT
Doxorubicin (DOX) is a potent chemotherapeutic agent widely used for treating various cancers, but is known for its detrimental side effects, including reproductive toxicity in males. The aim of this study to the effects of hydroethanol extracts of tiger nuts (Cyperus esculentus) and date palm (Phoenix dactylifera) against Doxorubicin (DOX) induced reproductive damage in male Wistar rats. A total of 35 rats were divided into seven groups with 5 rats per group and subjected to DOX-induced reproductive toxicity (15 mg/kg for three days), followed by administration of different doses of the plant extracts, for 27 days. On the 31st day animals were sacrificed and samples collected for the Biochemical analysis of reproductive hormone levels (FSH, LH, testosterone), sperm quality, and testicular histology. The DOX-only group showed significant reductions in sperm count, motility, hormone levels, and antioxidant status, with increased lipid peroxidation and abnormal testicular histology. Conversely, groups treated with tiger nuts and date palm extracts, particularly at high doses and in combination, demonstrated marked improvements in these parameters. Co-administration significantly restored hormone levels, enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity, improved sperm morphology and count, and reversed DOX-induced histopathological alterations. The findings confirm that tiger nuts and date palm possess strong antioxidant and fertility-enhancing properties capable of mitigating DOX-induced reproductive toxicity.
Original Research Article
ABSTRACT
The development of effective and targeted therapies for colorectal cancer remains a significant challenge. This study investigates the in vitro anticancer efficacy of a novel chitosan-based nanoemulgel co-delivering the natural compounds cynaropicrin and salicin against HCT 116 human colorectal cancer cells. An optimized nanoemulgel formulation (designated F2) was developed by incorporating an oil phase (MCT oil) containing lipophilic cynaropicrin into an aqueous phase containing hydrophilic salicin and chitosan (0.5% w/v), followed by high-shear homogenization, sonication, and incorporation into a Carbopol gel. This F2 formulation exhibited a mean particle size of 85.50 ± 0.44 nm, a low polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.272 ± 0.003, a zeta potential of -35.3 ± 0.2 mV, and high encapsulation efficiencies for cynaropicrin (91.80 ± 0.57%) and salicin (81.40 ± 0.85%), with sustained in vitro drug release over 24 hours. Cytotoxicity of F2 against HCT 116 cells, assessed by MTT assay, revealed a potent dose-dependent reduction in cell viability, with an IC₅₀ value of approximately 42 µg/mL. Mechanistic studies demonstrated that the observed cytotoxicity was mediated, at least in part, through the induction of apoptosis. Annexin V-FITC/PI staining followed by flow cytometry showed a significant, concentration-dependent increase in both early and late apoptotic cell populations, with an estimated apoptosis IC₅₀ of ~55 µg/mL. Furthermore, the nanoemulgel significantly inhibited HCT 116 cell migration in a dose-dependent manner, as determined by the scratch (wound healing) assay. At 48 hours, the highest concentration of F2 (5.00 µg/mL) reduced wound closure to 5.0%, compared to 28.3% in untreated controls. These findings highlight the potent cytotoxic, pro-apoptotic, and anti-migratory effects of the cynaropicrin and salicin co-loaded nanoemulgel, suggesting its promising potential as a multi-modal therapeutic strategy for colorectal cancer.