Journal Summary: Scope: Publishes in all areas of Toxicology. ISSN: 3115-5413. Crossref DOI Prefix: 10.54117. Frequency: quarterly (4 Issues per year). Journal model: Open Access. Article Processing Charges: $30 or #30,500. Abstracting & Indexing: Google Scholar, Semantic Scholar, Index Copernicus, Crossref, WorldCat. Type of articles: All kinds of articles including book of abstracts and conference proceedings. Review type: Double-blind peer review. License type: CC BY 4.0. Area of coverage: Food toxicology, Environmental Toxicology, reproductive toxicology, Forensic Toxicology, Occupational Toxicology, Marine Toxicology, Nanotoxicology, Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Soil and Water Toxicology. Submission email: ipsjournal2@gmail.com WhatsApp: +234(0)7039618485
Determination of the Median Lethal Dose (LD50) of Buchholzia coriacea Extract Using Lorke’s Method in Wistar Rats
Background: Buchholzia coriacea, commonly known as wonderful kola, is a tropical medicinal plant widely used in African traditional medicine. Objective: This study evaluated the acute oral toxicity and determined the median lethal dose (LD₅₀) of ethanolic seed extract of Buchholzia coriacea using Lorke’s method in male Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: Thirty male Wistar rats were used for acute toxicity assessment in a two-phase study involving graded oral doses ranging from 10–7000 mg/kg body weight. Animals were monitored for mortality and signs of toxicity for 14 days. Results: No mortality or visible signs of toxicity were observed at any administered dose. The extract demonstrated an LD₅₀ of 7000mg/kg body weight, indicating a wide safety margin and practical non-toxicity according to OECD classification. Conclusion: The ethanolic seed extract of Buchholzia coriacea appears relatively safe for acute oral administration and may be suitable for further pharmacological investigations.
Copyright (c) 2026 C. C. Amadi, F. O. Robert https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Exploring the Hepato-protective Potential of Activated Charcoal in Carbon Hydrochloride-Induced Liver Injury in Wistar Rats: A Controlled Experimental Study
Carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) is a potent hepatotoxin that induces liver injury via oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation. This study evaluated the hepatoprotective effect of activated charcoal against CCl₄-induced liver damage in Wistar rats. Twelve Wistar rats were divided into three groups (n = 4): control, CCl₄-treated, and CCl₄ plus activated charcoal-treated. CCl₄ (1 ml/kg; 1:9 in olive oil) was administered intraperitoneally twice weekly, while activated charcoal (1 g/kg) was administered orally daily for 28 days. Serum liver enzymes (AST, ALT, ALP), body weight, and liver weight were assessed. Histological evaluation was performed using hematoxylin and eosin staining. CCl₄ induced significant hepatic injury characterised by necrosis and inflammation. Activated charcoal attenuated these changes histologically. However, no statistically significant differences (p > 0.05) were observed in biochemical parameters or body/liver weights. Activated charcoal demonstrates partial hepatoprotection at the histological level. Histopathology remains a sensitive tool for detecting early liver injury.
Copyright (c) 2026 S. I. Ogenyi, A. O. Ike https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Termite-Derived Spinigerin: A Novel Peptide Antibiotic against Multidrug-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa
The rise of multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa poses a significant threat to global health, necessitating the search for alternative therapeutic strategies. This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of spinigerin, a peptide antibiotic, against multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa isolates. One hundred fish pond water samples were collected from five locations in Uli community, Nigeria. The isolates were characterized using cultural, morphological, and molecular techniques. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using disc diffusion method, and spinigerin was extracted from termite gut using solvent extraction and chromatographic techniques. The inhibitory activity of spinigerin was evaluated using micro tube dilution method. The Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains (LG03, F065, F076) exhibited 43.59% resistance to conventional antibiotics, with 82.35% showing multi-antibiotic resistance. Spinigerin showed varying degrees of inhibitory activity against the isolates, with significant differences in activity among concentrations (p < 0.05). The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of spinigerin against PA03, PA065, and PA076 ranged from 0.0625% to 1.0000%. Spinigerin has potential as an antimicrobial agent against multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa isolates, warranting further investigation into its modes of action and potential applications. This study highlights the potential of spinigerin as a novel peptide antibiotic against multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa.
Copyright (c) 2024 C. M. Iheukwumere, I. H. Iheukwumere https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Toxicity Assessment and Acetic Acid Content of Vinegar from Date Palm and Grape Fruits
While vinegar is broadly considered safe for consumption, its specific safety profile, including acetic acid concentration and potential toxicological effects, is contingent upon the raw material and production parameters. This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive safety evaluation of vinegar produced from Phoenix dactylifera (date palm) and Vitis vinifera (grape) by quantifying its acetic acid content and assessing subchronic toxicity in vivo. Essential fermentative microorganisms, Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain SR 128 and Acetobacter aceti strain WI, were isolated from spoiled fruits and utilized for vinegar production via submerged fermentation of the respective fruit musts. Acetic acid concentration was determined instrumentally, and a 28-day oral toxicity study was performed using a rat model to evaluate effects on body weight, relative organ weights, and key serum biochemical markers. Data were analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) with Tukey's post-hoc test. The acetic acid content of the grape and date vinegars was determined to be 4.10% and 5.20%, respectively. The toxicological assessment revealed no significant adverse effects; no statistically significant differences (p > 0.05) were observed in body weight, organ weights, or clinical biochemistry parameters between the treatment and control groups. In conclusion, vinegars produced from Phoenix dactylifera and Vitis vinifera contain acceptable levels of acetic acid and demonstrate no evidence of toxicity in the subchronic rodent model, supporting their safety for human consumption. The date palm vinegar, characterized by a higher acetic acid yield, exhibited marginally superior compositional attributes.
Copyright (c) 2026 A. O. Obianom, I. H. Iheukwumere, C. M. Iheukwumere, V. E. Ike, J. N. Ezendianefo, D. J. Okongwu, O. Abba https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Safety Evaluation of Vinegar from Phoenix dactylifera and Mango Fruits: Toxicity and Acetic Acid Content
Vinegar is a widely consumed fermented product generally regarded as safe, its specific safety profile—including its acetic acid concentration and potential toxicological effects—is dependent on the raw material and production process. This necessitates targeted safety assessments for novel vinegar types. This study evaluated the safety of vinegar produced from Phoenix dactylifera (date palm) and Mangifera indica (mango) by determining its acetic acid content and in vivo toxicity. Yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain SR 128) and acetic acid bacteria (Acetobacter aceti strain WI) were isolated and used to ferment fruit musts via submerged fermentation. The acetic acid content was quantified using instrumental analysis, while an in vivo rat model was employed for a 28-day subchronic toxicity assessment, monitoring body weight, relative organ weights, and serum biochemical markers of organ function. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey’s post-hoc test (p < 0.05). The vinegars produced from mango and date palm yielded acetic acid concentrations of 4.10% and 5.20%, respectively. The toxicological assessment revealed no significant adverse effects (p > 0.05); no statistically significant differences were observed in body weight, organ weights, or key serum biochemical parameters between the treated and control groups. The results demonstrate that the vinegars from Phoenix dactylifera and Mangifera indica contain acceptable acetic acid levels and exhibit no significant toxicity in the tested model. The date palm vinegar, with its higher acetic acid yield, showed marginally superior attributes.
Occurrence of Bacillus cereus in Local Soybean Drinks Sold in Onitsha Metropolis, Nigeria
Bacillus species, particularly Bacillus cereus, are significant pathogens in various environments, including food and clinical settings.This study aimed to isolate and characterize Bacillus species from environmental samples and determine their molecular identities. Samples were collected from different locations, and Bacillus species were isolated using standard microbiological techniques. The isolates were characterized using cultural, morphological, and biochemical tests. Molecular identification was performed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The study found that 57% of the samples were positive for Bacillus species, with significant variations in occurrence across different locations (p < 0.05). Two Bacillus cereus strains, FORC60 (BCFOR) and DQ01 (BCDQO), were identified, with BCFOR being more prevalent (66.07%). The isolates exhibited consistent cultural, morphological, and biochemical characteristics, including catalase, citrate, and oxidase positivity. Sugar utilization patterns showed significant variations, particularly with lactose, sorbitol, and inositol. Statistical analysis revealed a significant association between location and occurrence of Bacillus species (p < 0.05). The study highlights the presence of Bacillus cereus in environmental samples, with varying levels of occurrence and characteristics. This study provides valuable data on the prevalence and characteristics of Bacillus cereus in environmental samples, emphasizing the need for monitoring and control measures.
Copyright (c) 2026 J. N. Ezendianefo, I. H. Iheukwumere, C. M. Iheukwumere, V. E. Ike, C. C. Aniekwu, S. C. Ochibulu, O. Abba, A. G. Ofuani https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Toxicity and Safety Evaluation of Glycolipid Biosurfactant Produced by Yeast Strains Isolated from Fruit Pastes
This study was undertaken to evaluate the toxicity and safety of glycolipid biosurfactant produced by yeast strains isolated from fruit pastes. Yeast strains were isolated from ripe pineapple (Ananas comosus) and unripe plantain (Musa paradisiaca) pastes using enrichment technique and screening for their biosurfactant potentials using emulsification and oil displacement tests. The yeast strains were characterized and identified using classical microbiological techniques. The crude biosurfactants produced were characterized biochemically and their toxicity status evaluated using phytotoxicity test. The result revealed that a total of 10 strains of yeast were isolated from the fruit pastes. The yeast strain PA4 had the highest emulsification activity of 37.50 % while yeast strain PA1 had the lowest emulsification activity of 23.52 %, respectively. Also, PA3 had the highest dispersive index of 24.64 mm, while PL3 had the lowest dispersive index of 8.54 mm, respectively. The yeast strains were classically identified as Trichosporon sp. and Candida sp. They were found to be glycophospholipid in nature as well as non – toxic to Zea mays seeds at low concentrations. The study has helped to synthesize a low cost and ecofriendly glycophospholipid biosurfactant which consolidates the ecological acceptability of biosurfactant.
Copyright (c) 2026 B. O. Uba, P. I. Udaba, N. A. Dibua, C. C. Ubajekwe, V. C. Igiri, D. J. Okongwu, E. C. Anaebonam https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Assessment of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons Exposure to Soil and Vegetable near a Gas-Powered Plant in Rivers State, Nigeria: Impact of Industrially Affected Soil to Public Health
Assessment of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) levels in soil and selected vegetables grown in the vicinity of Afam IV power plant in Rivers State was carried out in this study. Similarly, potential health risk associated with their exposures via dietary intake of vegetables and other pathways were evaluated. Levels of PAHs were determined using gas chromatography-mass spectrometer. Mean concentrations of ∑16PAHs in the soil were 174.87 mg/kg, while in vegetables the value was 24.94 mg/kg. These concentration values ∑16PAHs were below the safe limits of international regulatory agencies. Analysis showed that pollution of PAHs, especially benzo(a)pyrene and benzo(g,h,i)perylene in the soil, was due mainly to anthropogenic activities. Results revealed accumulation of acenaphthylene, fluorene, anthracene, pyrene, benz(a)anthracene and Mn in some vegetables. The carcinogenic risks of PAH pollution were 9.31E-05 in children and 5.16E-05 in adults for soil, and 8.10E-08 in children and 2.58E-07 in adults for vegetables. The lifetime carcinogenic risk (LCR) of a local populace due to the PAHs contamination in both soil and vegetables was 1.45E-04. Of the LCR. Diagnostic ratio analysis shows PAH contamination was from pyrogenic and petrogenic sources, while Pearson correlation analysis revealed a positive relationship between PAHs in soil and vegetables, suggesting similar sources. Our findings confirm that soil around Afam IV was vulnerable to PAH pollution
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons, Carcinogenic Risk, Molecular Diagnostic Ratio, Afam IV Power Plant, Pearson correlation analysis
Copyright (c) 2025 Blessing Minaopunye Onyegeme-Okerenta, Miracle Munachi Ezeji, Bernard Samson Akpoji https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Exploring the Impact of Lactobacillus-Fermented Chicken Feather on Organ Weights and Functions in Albino Wistar Rats
Globally, millions of tons of chicken feathers are produced annually, representing a significant waste management challenge due to their poor biodegradability and low economic utilization. This study was undertaken to evaluate the corollary of Lactobacillus fermented chicken feather on the organ weight and organ function of albino Wistar rats. The corollary of lactobacillus fermented feeds on the rats was determined using in vivo techniques. The fermenter used in the study was identified to be Lactobacillus acidophilus strain DSN20079 (LADSM). The study revealed that there was a significant (P<0.05) increase in the organ weight of the rats i.e liver (6.32 g), kidney (0.47g), lungs (1.02 g), and heart (0.43g) compared to the control group. Also, the organ functions of the rats revealed that there was an increase in ALT (17.180 U/L) compared to the control group (17.100 U/L), and a decrease in AST (25.180 U/L) compared to the control group (25.180 U/L). It also showed an increase in creatine, urea and LDH compared to the control group. Therefore, the study concluded that the Lactobacillus fermented chicken feather meal showed pronounced activity in the organ weights and organ functions of the rats.
Copyright (c) 2025 I. H. Iheukwumere, C. M. Iheukwumere, M. A. Idigo, S. N. Ezekwueche https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Toxicological Evaluation and LD₅₀ of Ethanolic Extracts of Chromolaena odorata and Zingiber officinale in Wistar Rats: Effects on Body Weight and Haematology in Indomethacin-Induced Ulceration
This study evaluated the acute toxicity, LD₅₀, effects on body weight, and haematological parameters of ethanolic extracts of Chromolaena odorata and Zingiber officinale in Wistar rats. Acute toxicity testing revealed no mortality at doses up to 5000 mg/kg for either extract; only slight weakness was observed in rats receiving 5000 mg/kg of C. odorata, indicating high safety margins (LD₅₀ > 5000 mg/kg). Body weight monitoring over four weeks showed that indomethacin-induced ulcer groups experienced significant reductions in weight gain (p < 0.05), whereas extract-treated groups, particularly the combination extract at 100 mg/kg post-treatment (Group N), maintained body weight comparable to controls (p > 0.05). Haematological analysis demonstrated that ulceration caused significant declines in haemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), and red blood cell (RBC) counts (p < 0.05), alongside elevated white blood cell (WBC) counts. Pretreatment with C. odorata (100 mg/kg) improved Hb to 11.20 ± 0.20 g/dl and PCV to 33.67 ± 0.66%, while combination extract posttreatment at 100–200 mg/kg maintained Hb (13.30 ± 0.13 g/dl) and PCV (40.00 ± 0.44%) near normal levels and stabilized WBC counts (4.32–5.35 × 10³/mm³; p > 0.05 versus control). Post-treatment with the combination extract also significantly ameliorated haematological disruptions (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that both extracts are acutely safe and exert protective effects against indomethacin-induced haematological and physiological alterations. Moreover, combination therapy at moderate doses exhibited slightly superior efficacy, indicating potential synergistic interactions. Overall, ethanolic extracts of C. odorata and Z. officinale, particularly in combination, may offer a safe and effective prophylactic or therapeutic option for mitigating ulcer-associated haematological disturbances, warranting further studies on chronic safety and underlying molecular mechanisms.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ihuoma Cyril Akwas, Andrew C. Nwaka, Chinazor Henrietta Ali, Chukwudi Jude Chikwendu, Chukwuebuka Egbuna, Stephen Nnaemeka Ezekwueche https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Effects of Newcastle Disease Virus on Embryonic Body Weight and Structural Development of Chicken Embryo
Newcastle disease is a viral disease that mostly affects poultry birds. It is highly contagious and can cause a high mortality rate. It is endemic in many parts of the world and leads to devastating economic losses in the poultry industry. To determine the capacity of the Newcastle disease virus to affect the egg weight, embryonic weight and structural features of embryonated chicken eggs, 9-day-old chicken embryos were inoculated with different dilutions of the virus prepared by dissolving a vial of the viral stock in corresponding volumes of phosphate buffer saline. The infectivity of each dilution was measured by determining the egg/embryo (EE) weight ratio, and mean death time. The study showed that the 2.50 ml dilution caused significant (p > 0.05) weight loss and structural development abnormalities in the infected groups. The mortality rate of the egg samples infected with the viral dilutions was high in the 2.50 ml dilution, and this decreased as the dilution increased. No death was recorded in the 20.0 ml dilution. The study also revealed that the viral sample diluted with the 2.5 ml PBS was most effective and virulent hence confirming the velogenic nature of the virus. Therefore, this study has revealed that the viral sample diluted with 2.5 ml phosphate buffer saline was the most velogenic and virulent when compared to other studied dilutions.
Copyright (c) 2025 IPS Journal of Toxicology
Ziziphus mauritiana Supplement Improved Spatial Working and Recognition Memory in Swiss Albino Mice
Recognition memory, particularly in the context of spatial tasks, relies on the integration of spatial working memory and long-term memory, with successful performance linked to specific brain activations, such as in the inferior frontal gyrus and hippocampus. Ziziphus mauritiana (Z. mauritiana) is a plant whose bark and leaves exhibit significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and enzyme inhibitory activities. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Z. mauritiana supplementation on spatial working and recognition memory in Swiss albino mice. Twenty (20) mice weighing between 24 – 30 grams were used for the study. They were divided into five groups of four mice each (N=4). Group I served as control and received 10 ml/kg distilled water; groups II, III, IV and V were given 2 mg/kg glibenclamide, 25 mg/kg, 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg of Z. mauritiana for 14 days respectively. Y maze and novel object recognition task were used to assess spatial working, long-term and recognition memories respectively. We observed no significant (p > 0.05) improvement in spatial working memory in all the Z. mauritiana supplemented groups when compared with the control group. Long-term and recognition memories showed significant (p < 0.05) improvement after 14 days of 50 mg/kg of Z. mauritiana administration compared to day 0 of the same group. Thus, Z. mauritiana supplement have no effect on spatial working memory while at 50 mg/kg improved long-term and recognition memories of Swiss albino mice. Keywords: dementia, long-term memory, spatial working memory, Ziziphus mauritiana.
Contamination and Ecotoxicological Health Risk Assessment of Potential Toxic Elements in Surface Water and Sediment from Two Communities along Bonny River
This study assessed the levels of PTEs in surface water and sediment from Orosikiri and Akiama, two communities along the Bonny River, Nigeria. Surface water and sediment samples were collected and analyzed for physicochemical parameters and PTE concentrations. The study also evaluated human health risks using the estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), and carcinogenic risk (CR) models. Results showed that physicochemical parameters such as temperature (25.30–25.80°C), pH (6.36–6.74), and electrical conductivity (43.69–74.95 µScm-l) were within permissible limits. However, total dissolved solids (TDS) (44.97–45.97 mgL-l), chemical oxygen demand (COD) (50.87–74.69 mgL-l), and biological oxygen demand (BOD) (8.34–13.08 mgL-l) exceeded WHO/USEPA standards. Water Quality Index (WQI) values ranged from 147.38 to 193.25, classifying the water as unfit for consumption. PTE concentrations in surface water samples were higher in Orosikiri, with Pb (1.9887 mgL-l), Cd (0.154 mgL-l), and Cr (5.0087 mgL-l) exceeding safety limits. Risk Quotient (RQ) values for PTEs in water were below 1, suggesting no immediate risks to aquatic life. Pearson correlation analysis indicated common pollution sources for Pb, Cd, and Cr, likely from industrial and oil-related activities. Human health risk assessments revealed that the EDI of Pb, Cd, and Cr exceeded WHO limits, with children at greater risk. Carcinogenic risk (CR) values for As and Cr exceeded the acceptable threshold (10⁻⁴), signaling long-term cancer concerns. These findings underscore the need for continuous monitoring of pollution control measures and remediation strategies to mitigate contamination risks and protect public health.
Investigation of Acute Toxicity Level of Gongronema latifolium Leaf Extract on White Albino Rat
The aim of this study is to investigate the level of toxicity in Gongronema latifolium leaf extract on male swiss albino rats. Lorke’s method of toxicity was used in this research study. The experimental animals were administered with different doses of the extract. The rats were monitored closely for behavioural changes, difficulty in breathing and death for the period of two weeks. At the end of the two weeks study, all the animals used for the experiment were sacrificed and the internal organ-body weight ratio (OBR) were determined and compared with the values from the control group. The LD50 was found to be >5000 mg/kg body weight. There was no significant weight decrease (P>0.05) among dose groups of up to 1000mg/kg body weight. Liver congestion was observed with 100mg/kg body weight dose group. The OBR mean values for kidney, liver, and heart were not significantly (P>0.05) different from that of the control group. The extract therefore is safe for human consumption.
Protective Effect of Resveratrol on Chlorpyrifos-Induced Oxidative Stress in Mice
Background: Reports of exposure to Chlorpyrifos (CPF) among pesticide applicators and other farm workers constitute an important source of occupational hazards to these groups of individuals. Repeated exposure to CPF has been associated with organ-system impairments in both humans and animals. Chlorpyrifos (CPF) is thought to cause oxidative injury in both humans and animals via the formation of free radicals. Aim: The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of chlorpyrifos on oxidative stress parameters in mice. Methods: Swiss albino mice were divided into (6) six groups of five mice each (n=5). Group I served as the control and were administered olive oil (2 ml/kg), group II received carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) 10g/L, group III received resveratrol 30 mg/kg, group IV received chlorpyrifos (CPF) 3 mg/kg, group V received CPF (3 mg/kg) after the oral administration of resveratrol (30 mg/kg) and group VI received Vitamin E (Vit E) 100 mg/kg. All administrations were done by oral gavage for 21 days. Cognitive function was assessed using Y-maze recognition memory test. Results: The results obtained showed that resveratrol at dose 30 mg/kg significantly (p<0.05) improved the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) as well as catalase (CAT) when compared with the control. Glutathione (GSH) significantly (p<0.05) increased in the treated group when compared with the control in our chlorpyrifos-induced oxidative stress mice model. Conclusion: Dietary supplementation with resveratrol and vitamin E using the model animal has shown the protective and therapeutic effects of both resveratrol and Vitamin E on CPF-induced oxidative damage and cognitive impairment.
Comparative Study on the Synergistic Effects of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) and Hydrogen Peroxide on Some Inflammatory Markers of Wistar Rats
Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), particularly polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) such as benzo(a)pyrene and naphthalene, disrupt inflammatory homeostasis and exacerbate oxidative stress. This study evaluated the synergistic effects of PAHs and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced oxidative stress on inflammatory markers in Wistar rats for four weeks (Batch one) and eight weeks (Batch two) exposure durations, alongside the ameliorative potential of vitamin C. Key markers analyzed included tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and interleukin-10 (IL-10). In Batch one, H₂O₂-only exposure significantly elevated TNF-α (6690.62 ± 0.01 pg/mL), IL-6 (701.94 ± 0.01 pg/mL), and IL-1β (2679.39 ± 0.01 pg/mL) compared to the control group (3999.89 ± 0.01, 490.55 ± 0.01, and 1705.44 ± 0.01 pg/mL, respectively). Batch two results showed further increases, with TNF-α reaching 6900.83 ± 0.01 pg/mL and IL-6 rising to 725.21 ± 0.01 pg/mL, indicating cumulative inflammatory effects over time. High-dose H₂O₂ combined with PAHs elevated TNF-α from 3980.79 ± 0.01 pg/mL in Batch one to 4100.25 ± 0.01 pg/mL in Batch two. Vitamin C treatment further amplified TNF-α levels in both batches, peaking at 18340.93 ± 0.02 pg/mL in Batch one and 18750.23 ± 0.02 pg/mL in Batch two, while partially mitigating IL-6 and IL-10 levels. These findings underscore the complex interplay between oxidative stress, inflammation, and antioxidant dynamics under POP exposure. The progressive nature of inflammatory responses highlights the need for early intervention and the potential of combination therapies to mitigate environmental pollutant-induced inflammation.
Effect of Ethanol Seed Extract of Coriandrum sativum on Kerosene Mediated Oxidative Stress Markers in Wistar Rats Fed with Kerosene Contaminated Diet
This study was aimed at determining the effect of ethanol seed extract of Coriandrum sativum on kerosene mediated oxidative stress markers in Wistar rats fed with kerosene contaminated diet. C. sativum were bought, processed and extracted using ethanol and the extract was used in determination of phytochemical compositions, in vitro antioxidant properties and in treatment of rat feed with kerosene contaminated feed. Phytochemical compositions was determined using Gas Chromatography Flame Ionization Detection (GC-FID) while the in vitro antioxidants capacity was determined using 2,2 Diphenyl picryl hydrazyl radical, hydroxyl radical and ferric reducing antioxidant potential assays. Animal study was carried out using 43 rats separated in five groups. While group 1 and two were controls, group 3 was negative control (untreated) and groups 4 and 5 were treated groups. The acute toxicity was determined using lorke’s method while oxidative stress markers malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Catalase (CAT) were determined using biochemical standard methods after 28 days of administration of the extract. The result of the study showed that the most abundant phytochemicals present ranked in the order flavonones > Ribalinidine > Aphylidine > catechin > anthocynin > phytate and others while sapogenin was the least. In vitro antioxidant study showed that ethanol seed extract was able to inhibit the formation of DPPH radicals and quench hydroxyl radicals with effective concentration (EC50) of 1.25 and 1.35 respectively. While kerosene contaminated diet increased MDA in group 3 rats (untreated) compared to normal control (group 1), C. sativum extract decreased MDA in group 4 and 5. CAT activity in group 3 (untreated) was low compared to normal control while the extract increased CAT activities in groups 4 and 5. This findings revealed that seed extract of C. sativum is rich in antioxidant and therefore has mitigating effect on kerosene mediated oxidative stress.
Petroleum Fractions Induce Lipid Peroxidation, Histopathological and Haematological Changes in Wistar Albino Rats
Petroleum products pollution is one of the main cause of environmental toxicity. The study presents the effects of petroleum fractions intoxications with the underlying aim of quantifying the enzymatic activity, level of lipid peroxidation, histopathology and haematological changes in rats. Briefly, twenty-five (25) male rats weighing between 148- 172 g were divided into five groups of five animals each. Group 1, served as the control, Group 2 (rats exposed to cooking gas), Group 3 (exposed to petrol fraction), Group 4 (exposed to kerosene) and Group 5 (exposed to diesel fraction). Oxidative stress biomarkers, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities, malondialdehyde (MDA) and haematological parameters were quantified in the serum. Histological examination of the lungs was conducted to assess the impact of the inhalation. There was significant (p < 0.05) decrease in SOD activities (Grp1:105.20 ± 1.23, Grp2: 93.04 ± 0.92, Grp3: 88.60 ± 0.74, Grp4: 74.13 ± 0.59 and Grp5: 68.02 ± 0.25 µm/mins/mL) and CAT activities (Grp1: 5.70 ± 0.12, Grp2: 4.3 ± 0.12, Grp3: 3.60 ± 0.32, Grp4: 3.40 ± 0.04, and Grp5: 2.50 ± 0.02 µm/mins/mL) and concomitant rise in MDA levels MDA (Grp1: 88.50 ± 0.32, Grp2: 102.60 ± 0.42, Grp3: 121.30 ± 0.61, Grp4: 130.60 ± 0.72 and Grp5: 140.50 ± 0.95 moles of MDA/g tissues ×10-5). There was subsequent alteration in lung morphology of the lungs and haematological indices in serum. The findings imply that exposure to petroleum fractions by inhalation is a risk factor in the pathophysiology of pulmonary dysfunction and indication of oxidative stress.
Copyright (c) 2024 IPS Journal of Toxicology
A Comparative Study of Serum Cystatin C, Serum Electrolytes, Urea and Creatinine in Early Detection of Kidney Injuries in Albino Rats Exposed to Formaldehyde
Aim: To ascertain early detection of possible kidney injuries in albino rats exposed to formaldehyde by assessing cystatin C, serum electrolytes, urea and creatinine. Materials/Methods: Thirty healthy adult male albino rats, weighing between 100 to 120 grams were randomly divided into three groups A, B and C. Group A served as control. Group B was exposed to low dose (100ppm of Formaldehyde), 3 hrs per day for four weeks, while group C was exposed to high Dose-200ppm of formaldehyde 3 hrs per day for four weeks. At the end of the exposure period, the rats were sacrificed by decapitation under chloroform anesthesia, and 4 ml of blood samples was collected from each rat into a plain bottle. The whole blood was allowed to clot, retracted and centrifuged at 3000 rpm for 10 minutes and serum separated. The serum was stored at -20˚C until analyses for serum electrolytes, creatinine and cystatin C. Serum electrolytes were determined using Ion selective electrode, urea and creatinine were determined using spectrophotometric methods while cystatin C was analyzed using Eliza. Data obtained was analyzed using SPSS. Results: The concentrations of the serum electrolytes, sodium. Potassium, bicarbonate and chloride were compared across the three group, they were not statistically significant (p>0.05). Urea was significantly higher in group C when compared with low dose B and control group A (P<0.05). Also, when the low dose group B was compared with the high dose group C, it was statistically significant. Creatinine concentrations were significantly higher in group C when compared with the control group A, while group B was not significant when compared with group A. Finally, the cystatin C concentrations were also significant when groups B, C were compared with the control group. Conclusion: Formaldehyde exposures may induce a gradual deterioration of renal functions in chronically exposed albino rats. Serum electrolytes, urea and creatinine may not be sufficient to indicate an early sign of kidney damage. From the study, serum cystatin C may be a better marker of renal impairment in the early stages.
Copyright (c) 2021 Olisah and Meludu https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/