Department of Biological Sciences

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A possible role of urinary genotoxic Escherichia coli in prostate cancer in Nigerian patients
(BMC Research Notes, 2025) Akinpelu, Sharon O.; Olasehinde, Grace I.; Akinnola, Olayemi O.
Objective Infection and inflammation are potential initiating factors for the development and progression of prostate cancer. This study investigated the presence of bacterial genotoxins; colibactin (clb) and cytolethal distending toxin (cdt) in Escherichia coli isolated from urine samples of individuals diagnosed with prostate cancer as well as those with benign prostatic hyperplasia. E. coli was isolated from urine samples from prostate cancer patients (cases, n = 30) and men with benign prostate hyperplasia (controls, n = 40). The presence of colibactin (clb) and cytolethal distending toxin (cdt) genes was evaluated in E. coli isolates using polymerase chain reaction. Results The frequency of E. coli was 36.0% of prostate cancer patients and 30.0% of controls, respectively (p = 0.557). Furthermore, there was a higher occurrence of the clb gene in cases compared to controls (36.4% vs. 8.3%). Cytolethal distending toxin (cdt) gene was absent in all isolates examined. The analysis revealed no significant relationship between the selected genotoxins and prostate cancer (p = 0.104). The Gleason grade of the cancer was not a major determinant in the occurrence of clb within the cancer cases. The present study is the first report investigating bacterial genotoxins in urine samples of Nigerian prostate cancer patients. Our findings showed no association between bacterial genotoxins and prostate cancer. Additional investigations are warranted to further investigate the role of bacterial genotoxins in prostate cancer development.
Anaerobic biodegradation and activities of methanogens, acetogens, sulphate and nitrate reducing bacteria in aged oil wells from low sulphate oil producing environment
(Biodegradation, 2026) Okoro, Chuma; Ekeng, Effanga; Ohwo, Sylvester; Nwinyi, Obinna Chukwuemeka
Analysis of microbial communities associated with corrosion in low Sulphate/saline oil bearing environment
(Science of The Total Environment Volume 986, 2025-07-15) Okoro, Chuma; Ekeng, Effanga; Nwinyi, Obinna Chukwuemeka; Ohanu, Ursula Chidinma; Ali, Margaret; Ohwo, Sylvester
ANALYSIS OF PHYTATE CONTENT VARIABILITY AND MOLECULAR CHARACTERISATION OF GENES IN COWPEA LANDRACES
(Covenant University Ota, 2025-08) OMODIAGBE, David Eromosele; Covenant University Dissertation
Phytate is a naturally occurring phosphorus-storage compound in seeds, but it reduces the bioavailability of iron, zinc, and calcium in human diets. Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp), an essential dietary protein source widely consumed in Nigeria, contains notable phytate levels, which may hinder micronutrient absorption with regular consumption. This study investigated phytate content in Nigerian cowpea accessions and explored candidate genes involved in its biosynthesis to guide future efforts for nutritional improvement. Thirty (30) cowpea landraces were obtained from the National Centre for Genetic Resources and Biotechnology (NACGRAB). Phytate concentration was quantified using acid digestion followed by filtration and titration. To explore the genetic basis of phytate accumulation, protein sequences of known phytate biosynthetic genes from Arabidopsis thaliana, Glycine max, and Phaseolus vulgaris were retrieved from Phytozome 14.0. These sequences were used for BLASTp searches to identify putative homologues in cowpea. Homologous cowpea sequences were aligned and subjected to phylogenetic analysis using the Neighbour-Joining method in MEGA v12.0.11 with 10,000 bootstrap replicates to assess evolutionary relationships. The results showed significant variation in phytate content, 3.96‒30.94mg/g (p < 0.001) across cowpea accessions. The cowpea sequences displayed strong homology to known phytate biosynthetic enzymes in seed, MIPS (Myo-inositol-3-phosphate synthase), ITPK (Inositol 1,3,4-triphosphate 5/6-kinase), IPK2 (Inositol 1,4,5-tris-phosphate kinase), MRP (Multidrug-resistance-associated protein ATP-binding cassette), IMP (Inositol monophosphate phosphatase), MIK (Myo-inositol kinase), and IPK1 (Inositol 1,3,4,5,6 pentakisphosphate 2-kinase), with low E-values and high identity percentages. Phylogenetic clustering of cowpea sequences alongside those from related legumes suggests potential functional conservation, although expression-level validation is necessary. Quantitative gene expression profiling to further clarify the roles of these genes in phytate biosynthesis and accumulation is needed. These identified genes could be prioritised for reverse genetics or transcriptomic studies, provided that tissue-specific expression and off-target impacts are carefully evaluated
Application of Nanobiofertilization for Bioremediation and Ecorestoration of Polluted Soil/Farmland
(2024) Oyewole, Oluwafemi Adebayo; Chimbekujwo, Konjerimam Ishaku; Oniha, Margaret; Omoregie, Isibor Patrick; Ayanda, Opeyemi Isaac; Adetunji, Charles Oluwaseun; Mathew, John Tsado
Nanotechnology is a novel field of research that solves issues in relation to environmental contamination. It opens doors for an environmentally friendly substitutes without altering the ecosystem. The combination of the two methods, nanobiofertilization and bioremediation is a recently developed approach which gives hope for decontamination of the environment and restoring a livable future. It has proven to effectively absorb contaminates in a short period of time and in a friendlier manner. Microorganisms in nanobioremediation play an important role in the removal, detoxifying, degrading, and immobilization of pollutant into less toxic form. Bio- and phytoremediations are exclusively preferred approaches because of the edge it has over numerous methods like high waste cleaning abilities, its cheap, ecofriendly, and generally acceptable. This approach has exceptionally added to the tolerability and ecorestoration of the environment based on the upper hand it has over other innovations. More so, its efficacy signifies high level of pollutant removal and has lay out new prospect to tackle problem within the environment.
Application of Nanochitosan in the Detection of Pesticide Residues and Degradation
(2020) Yakubu, Japhet Gaius; Oyewole, Oluwafemi Adebayo; Ilyasu, Ummulkhair Salamah; Ayanda, Opeyemi Isaac; Adetunji, Charles Oluwaseun
Chemicals called pesticides are used to manage pests like weeds, rodents, and insects. They are commonly used in agriculture to safeguard animals and crops from pests and illnesses. The usage of pesticides, however, can potentially have detrimental effects on the environment and public health. Pesticides can harm non-target creatures and contaminate the soil, water, and air. In addition, exposure to pesticides can result in a variety of medical issues in people, such as cancer, neurological conditions, and reproductive issues. Chitosan is a natural polymer formed from crab shells. Nanochitosan is chitosan in a nanoscale form. It has several distinctive qualities that make it a potential material for a variety of applications, including the detection and degradation of pesticides, such as large surface area, biocompatibility, and non-toxicity. There are numerous ways to detect pesticides using nanochitosan. Utilizing sensors made of nanochitosan is one typical strategy. Usually, nanochitosan is immobilized onto a substrate, like a gold electrode, or nanochitosan-based colorimetric assays are used to create these sensors. Because there is currently no environmentally benign method of pesticide remediation, scientists have looked for other ways to prevent pesticides from having a negative impact on the ecosystem. In order to degrade pesticides, nanochitosan has been used in a variety of ways. These include the usage of nanochitosan-based adsorbents, which are typically created by adding a functional group with a strong affinity for pesticides to nanochitosan. The pesticide is subsequently removed from the environment by the functional group after it attaches to it. Because nanochitosan can be impacted by environmental factors including pH and temperature, there are restrictions on its usage for bioremediation. Nanochitosan provides a number of benefits over other materials used for the detection and degradation of pesticides, notwithstanding its limits. As a result, it may be investigated to reduce the effects of pesticides on the environment.
Assessment of knowledge and practices towards the diagnosis of arboviral infections amongst healthcare workers in Lagos State and the Federal Capital Territory: a cross-sectional study
(Pan African Medical Journal, 2024-12-17) Ipadeola, A. F.; Akinnola, Olayemi O.; Kolawole, Olatunji Matthew; Isere, Elvis Efe; Attah, Timothy Adejoh; Omenyi, Lazarus Onyema; Oladokun, Odunola Dorcas; Oyewunmi, Kafayat Olabisi; Ekun, Oyeronke Olufemi; Oparaocha, Stellamaris Uche; Obazee, Dorcas Yetunde; Ndaks, Comfort; Ewa, Egwu Emmanuel; Olasehinde, Grace Iyabo
Biotechnological advances in polyhydroxyalkanoates production from complex carbon sources
(Biocatalysis and Biotransformation Volume 43, 2025-06-03) Akinwumi, Adetutu Ruth; Nwinyi, Obinna Chukwuemeka; Ayeni, Augustine Omoniyi
Microbial synthesis of polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) at the industrialized level is already being exploited, although constrained, due to high costs. The biotransformation of complex constituents using microbial biocatalysts is gaining prominence in the production of hydroxyl fatty acid monomers. Recent research has focused on identifying and optimizing complex substrates that offer high carbon load, ready availability, and a suitable balance of nutrients for microbial growth and polymer bioaccumulation. Exploring this biosynthetic pathway can generate advanced and novel biopolymers, thereby expanding industrial applications. Different enzymes, both homo- and heterodimer in nature, are involved in PHA synthesis. Thus, the type of enzyme group the producing microorganism uses determines the carbon-length class of PHA generated. However, incubation time, growth nutrient supplements, and fermentation parameters such as temperature, pH, and oxygen content have constantly been hindrances to increasing the PHA yields from complex substrates. This review also situates the potency of using crude oil spills as carbon substrates for PHA production. This review further emphasizes the role of microbial biotransformation of hydrocarbonbased substrates, including crude oil spill, for the production of hydroxylated fatty acid monomers used in PHA synthesis, offering a novel prospects for bioremediation with value-added biopolymer generation.
CHARACTERISATION OF PROSTATE TISSUE AND EXPRESSED PROSTATIC SECRETION IN PATIENTS WITH PROSTATE DISORDERS IN LAGOS NIGERIA
(Covenant University Ota, 2025-01) SAMUEL ABOSEDE ESTHER; Covenant University Ota
Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most prevalent cancer in men, particularly affecting those of Black African descent. Nigeria currently has the fourth highest risk for PCa mortality in the world. The microbiome of the prostate has emerged as a critical factor in understanding the aetiology and progression of prostate diseases, such as prostate cancer (PCa), benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), benign stromal hyperplasia (BSH) and prostatitis (PRO). This study was conducted to comparatively characterize the microbiome present in prostate tissue and expressed prostatic secretion (EPS) from patients diagnosed with PCa, BPH, BSH and PRO. A total of 30 study participants comprising of 15 prostate cancer, 10 benign prostatic hyperplasia, 2 benign stromal hyperplasia and 3 prostatitis subjects. Samples were collected from the urology clinic of Lagos State University Teaching Hospital Ikeja and analysed to identify and quantify bacterial species, assessing the diversity and composition of the microbial communities. Subjects without prostate (15) cancer were used as control subjects. By employing cultural and 16SrRNA sequencing techniques, uro-pathogens were isolated from the samples. The antibiotic susceptibility testing was carried out on these isolates. Prostate tissue and EPS samples from BPH patients demonstrated a higher prevalence of bacterial taxa, including Staphylococcus scuri, Bacillus mycoides, Staphylococcus aureus, Proteus vulgaris, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus pyogene and Bacillus subtilis. Conversely, PCa patients exhibited an increased presence of pathogenic bacteria such as Escherichia coli Klebsiella oxytoca, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Citrobacter freudii, Pseudomonas putida, Staphylococcus condimentii, and Proteus mirabilis, which have been implicated in chronic inflammation and carcinogenesis. A high abundance of Lactobacillus vaginalis, Staphylococcus carnosus and Zymononas mobilis were observed in the prostate tissue. PCa-associated microbiome displayed reduced microbial diversity compared to other prostate disorders, suggesting a possible dysbiosis linked to cancer progression.
CHARACTERISATION OF THE GUT MICROBIOME AND FUNCTIONAL PROFILE IN ESTROGEN RECEPTOR-POSITIVE BREAST CANCER PATIENTS IN LAGOS, NIGERIA
(Covenant University Ota, 2025-10) WILLIAMS, Moyosoreoluwa Mary; Covenant University Dissertation
Estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer is the most prevalent molecular subtype globally, yet its association with gut microbial composition, functional potential and inflammatory drivers remains uncharacterised in sub-Saharan Africa. Employing the intersection of microbiology, oncology, and genomics, this study investigated the gut microbiome, predicted functional profiles, and systemic inflammatory markers in treatment-naïve ER+ breast cancer patients compared to healthy controls in Lagos, Nigeria. Faecal DNA samples from participants were extracted and analysed using 16S rRNA sequencing on the Illumina MiSeq platform using the QIIME2 pipeline. Microbial diversity was assessed through alpha (Shannon index) and beta diversity (NMDS, PCoA) metrics, and the group differences were tested using the Mann–Whitney test and Kruskal–Wallis, while PICRUSt2 predicted functional pathways with on focus on β-glucuronidase. Concurrently, systemic inflammation was evaluated through the quantification of Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and C-reactive protein (CRP) from blood serum. Analysis revealed no significant differences in alpha diversity between groups (p > 0.05). However, beta diversity demonstrated substantial compositional divergence (PERMANOVA R²=0.11, p=0.02), with cases showing an elevated Firmicutes/Bacteroidota ratio and depletion of Actinobacteriota, including Bifidobacterium and Collinsella. Functional prediction indicated heightened β-glucuronidase activity in ER+ cases, suggesting enhanced estrogen reactivation potential. Inflammatory markers displayed a complex profile, with significantly reduced IL-6 levels in patients despite stable CRP concentrations. These findings characterise distinct gut microbial dysbiosis and functional alterations in Nigerian ER+ breast cancer patients, revealing an estrobolome configuration potentially contributing to pathogenesis. The results underscore the necessity of population-specific microbiome studies and highlight potential biomarkers for early detection and targeted interventions in this understudied population.
CHARACTERIZATION OF THE GUT MICROBIOME AND INFLAMMATORY MARKERS IN TREATMENT-NAIVE TRIPLE-NEGATIVE BREAST CANCER (TNBC) PATIENTS IN LAGOS, NIGERIA
(Covenant University Ota, 2025-10) OGUNLEYE, Oluwanifemi Omodara; Covenant University Dissertation
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype lacking estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors. Emerging studies suggest that gut microbial imbalance and chronic inflammation may contribute to breast cancer progression. This study investigated the gut microbiome profile and circulating inflammatory markers in treatment-naive TNBC patients compared with unknown subtypes and healthy controls to understand the microbiome–inflammation relationship in TNBC pathogenesis. Fecal DNA from TNBC, unknown subtype, and healthy control groups was extracted and analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing through the Nephele QIIME2 pipeline. Alpha diversity was evaluated with the Shannon index, and group differences were tested using the Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney tests. Serum IL-6 and TNF-α levels were quantified using ELISA, and correlations were assessed using Pearson and Spearman analyses. Alpha diversity analysis revealed no statistically significant difference among groups (Kruskal–Wallis p = 0.298), though TNBC samples exhibited lower and more variable Shannon index values compared with controls. TNBC samples showed unstable high levels of Firmicutes, and Bacteriodota, and varying low levels of Proteobacteria and Actinobacteriota, indicating microbial imbalance. IL-6 and TNF-α levels did not differ significantly between TNBC and controls (p > 0.05), though TNBC patients displayed higher variability. A moderate positive correlation was found between IL-6 and TNF-α in TNBC (r = 0.5982), indicating co-regulated inflammatory activity. The PICRUSt functional prediction revealed altered microbial metabolic pathways in TNBC patients compared to controls, particularly a reduction in butyrate and propionate metabolism associated with short-chain fatty acid production. The findings suggest early gut dysbiosis and immune imbalance in TNBC despite the absence of significant statistical differences. Reduced microbial diversity, altered phylum-level composition, and cytokine co-regulation indicate biological perturbations in treatment-naive TNBC. These findings collectively support a potential link between microbial dysbiosis, altered short-chain fatty acid metabolism and elevated inflammatory activity in TNBC pathogenesis. It also highlights the need for larger, longitudinal studies to validate microbial and inflammatory biomarkers for early disease characterization.
Dataset on characterisation of microbiome of prostate tissue and expressed prostatic secretions
(Data in Brief (Elsevier), 2025) Akinnola, Olayemi O.; Samuel, Abosede E.; Omonhinmin, Conrad A.
Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most prevalent cancer in men, particularly affecting those of Black African descent. Nigeria currently has the fourth highest risk for PCa mortality in the world. The microbiome of the prostate has emerged as a critical factor in understanding the aetiology and progres- sion of prostate diseases, such as prostate cancer (PCa), be- nign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) , benign stromal hyperpla- sia (BSH) and prostatitis (PRO). This study to comparatively characterise the microbiome present in prostate tissue and expressed prostatic secretion (EPS) from 30 study subjects diagnosed with PCa, BPH, BSH and PRO and sampled from the urology clinic of Lagos State University Teaching Hospital Ikeja. Bacterial species community composition and diversity were analysed based on 16S rRNA metagenome nucleotide data to ensure the accuracy, reproducibility, and broader ap- plicability of microbiological and genomic research. Data in- formation allows for precise identification of organisms at the species or strain level, essential for verifying experi- mental results and comparisons of the isolated organism’s genome with related strains, providing insights into genetic diversity, virulence factors, and metabolic pathways of the sample population microbiome.
Dataset on rbcL gene intra and inter-specific diversity and phylogenetic relationship of eggplants ( Solanum species) in Southern Nigeria
(Data in Brief (Elsevier), 2025) Ajiboye, Babafemi I.; Popoola, Jacob O.; Eni, Angela O.; Omonhinmin, Conrad A.
Eggplant ( Solanum sp.) is the third most widely cultivated solanaceous vegetable globally, and it is commonly con- sumed in Nigeria, particularly in Southern Nigeria, for its nutritious and medicinal fruit, leaves, and seeds. The taxon has recorded array of ethnobotanical uses ranging from food, medicine to cultural interactions in ceremonies. Despite the enormous range of a value, studies have shown decreas- ing eggplant varietal diversity, directly linked with cultiva- tion preferences and activities, such as exchanging propag- ules within and between agroecological areas and farms. Ad- ditionally, the wide range of accessions in the taxa, mor- phological plasticity, and genetic similarity among acces- sions have resulted in the ambiguity and inconsistent phy- logenetic classification of the taxa. The dataset consists of partial ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase large subunit ( rbcL ) gene sequences, nucleotide compositions and amino acid profiles of 75 accessions of eggplants collected from across Southern Nigeria. The genetic information pro- vided by the dataset offers insight into the genetic diversity and the phylogenetic relationships of the eggplant accessions, which could serve as a baseline for designing effective strate- gies for sustainable cultivation, conservation, utilisation, and improvement of the taxa.
Dataset on rbcL-based intra-specific diversity and population structure of Parkia biglobosa (Jacq.) in Nigeria
(Data in Brief (Elsevier), 2024) Omonhinmin, Conrad A.; Taiwo, Nchedo S.; Okonkwor. Paul B.; Ajayi, Israel M.; Akinduti, Paul Akinniyi; Aworunse, Oluwadurotimi S.; Ajiboye, Ibukun; Taiwo, Olugbenga S.; Adekeye, Bosede Temitope; Oziegbe, Olubukola; Bello, Adetutu O.; Ahuekwe, Eze Frank; Oyekanmi, Joshua; Olufowobi, Olanrewaju; Oniha, Margaret Ikhiwili; Oshamika, Oyewumi; Ejoh, Samuel A.; Adewale, Adeyemi G.; Akinnola, Olayemi O.; Oranusi, Solomon U.; Popoola, Jacob O.
African locust bean ( Parkia biglobosa ) is a multipurpose legu- minous tree species of nutritional and pharmacological value. The plant is widely distributed in Africa and across Nige- ria’s major agroecological areas (AEAs). Amidst declining cul- tivation and production, P. biglobosa is genetically threatened in its natural habitats due to overexploitation, deforestation, wildfires and lack of improved tree management practices. Consequently, concerted research efforts directed towards germplasm collection and assessment of genetic relation- ships are imperative for conserving its genetic resources, sustainable management and selecting promising landraces for breeding programmes. The dataset presents rbcL in- traspecific genetic diversity and population structure of 62 P. biglobosa landraces in Nigeria. A relatively high level of diversity and a low degree of nucleotide variability was observed among the landraces. Relatively high values of 642 total allele sites, 601 polymorphic sites, 504 parsimony information sites, 883 total number mutations, 9 haplotypes and 0.55 gene diversity were recorded for the sequence dataset. Low values of 0.35 nucleotide diversity and 5 InDels events were also recorded for the dataset. The gene flow in this dataset demonstrated an extensive exchange of genes between the three populations of P. biglobosa, which influenced the level of genetic differentiation (Gst) between the populations. Significantly low Gst (-0.01) was recorded between the Guinea and Sudan savannah populations, a moderate value (0.03) was recorded between the Sudan savannah and Rainforest populations and a higher Gst value (0.05) was recorded between the Guinea and Rainforest populations. The dataset highlights potential evolutionary dynamics that might influence variations relevant to the breeding and conservation of P. biglobosa in Nigeria and across its range in West and Central Africa.
Epidemiological and Seasonal Patterns of Respiratory Diseases at a Community Health Facility in Southwest Nigeria: A Five-Year Retrospective Analysis
(The Open Public Health Journal, 2025) Oshamika, Oyewumi Oluwaseun; Adebanjo, Ademola Oyeyemi; Onile-ere, Olabode Azeez; Akinnola, Olayemi O.; Eni, Angela Obiagel
EVALUATION OF EFFECTS OF Trichoderma asperellum STRAINS IN BIOCONTROL OF CHARCOAL-ROT CAUSING Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goidanich IN COWPEA
(Covenant University Ota, 2025-09) OYESOLA, Olushola Luke; Covenant University Thesis
Macrophomina phaseolina, a soil-borne fungal pathogen, is responsible for loss in cowpea at both seedling and adult stages. Synthetic fungicides, although proven effective in M. phaseolina control, lead to severe cowpea poisoning and pose significant health risks to humans and animals. Trichoderma are efficient bioagents for managing plant pathogens, representing a promising strategy for managing M. phaseolina. This study evaluated the antifungal efficacy of some Trichoderma asperellum strains against M. phaseolina. The Trichoderma isolates obtained from soil were macroscopically, microscopically and genotypically identified based on the Internal Transcribed Spacer genes. Bioactive compounds were isolated from selected Trichoderma species and evaluated using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The inhibitory potential of the suspensions of selected Trichoderma species against M. phaseolina was tested singly in vitro and in combination in vivo. The in vivo experiments were carried out in the screenhouse across pre-planting, post-germination and seed treatment for eighty days, and plant growth indicators such as plant height, stem girth and leaf number were assessed at ten-day intervals. Disease incidence and severity were also determined following standard methods. After the termination of the in vivo experiment, yield assessment was carried out to determine the cowpea pod number, pod weight, and seed number, as well as the fresh and dry weights of leaves, stems and roots. A histopathological assessment was carried out on the lower stems of the cowpea plants to determine the effect of M. phaseolina on the cowpea tissues. Phenotypic, microscopic and genotypic characterisation identified all the Trichoderma isolates as Trichoderma asperellum. Among the Trichoderma species isolated and tested, T. asperellum (Tric13), T. asperellum (Tric4) and T. asperellum (Tric12) exhibited significant inhibitory potential (p<0.05) against M. phaseolina in vitro, with inhibition values of 82.51%, 82.41%, and 81.95%, respectively. The production of volatile organic compounds varied among the Trichoderma species. Specifically, Tric13 yielded terpenoids, ketones, sesquiterpenes, cycloalkanes, and alcohols. In contrast, Tric4 produced fatty acids, aldehydes, alkanes, terpenoids, and aromatic and bicyclic compounds, while Tric12 generated carboxylic acids, terpenoids, phenolics, bicyclic and aromatic compounds. The in vivo results showed that Trt7 (plant height = 49.8000 cm; stem girth = 0.53625 cm; leaf number = 21.028), followed by Trt3 (plant height = 49.8250 cm; stem girth = 0.49986 cm; leaf number = 18.611), recorded higher cowpea biomass across the Trichoderma formulations than the negative control. Zero disease incidence was observed in Trt3 and Trt7 (0%) upon treatment with the Trichoderma formulations. Also, zero disease severity was noted in Trt3 and Trt7 (0%), compared to the negative controls, which displayed 100% incidence and severity. The cowpea yield assessment showed that the highest pod weight (11.3 g) and pod number (8) were recorded in Trt7 (pre-planting), and seed number (32) was recorded in Trt5 (seed treatment). The histopathological assessment of the cowpea showed the efficacy of the treatments in inhibiting the growth of M. phaseolina, minimising its tissue entry, and xylem vessel occlusion. This study established the efficacy of Trichoderma in M. phaseolina biomanagement and the synergistic potential of different Trichoderma asperellum strains in its biocontrol.
Exploring the impact of climate change on respiratory health in Nigeria: a scoping review of current research, government policies and programs
(Climatic Change, 2025) Niyi-Odumosu, Faatihah; Ozoh, Obianuju B.; Ope, Victor Oloruntoba; Ale, Boni M.; Akinnola, Olayemi O.; Iseolorunkanmi, Alexander; Adeloye, Davies
Climate change significantly impacts health globally, especially in densely populated, rapidly industrialising and ecologically diverse countries like Nigeria. We analysed climate change policies, studies, programs, and events at the national and subnational levels in Nigeria and explored their effects on public and respiratory health. Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMAScR) checklist, we searched PubMed, African Journals Online (AJoL), Google Scholar and government data repositories on January 10, 2024. We synthesised results using an adapted sector-level framework based on the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. Our searches returned 262 items, of which 32, including research studies, reports and grey documents, were retained for synthesis. Although some policies and programmes, like the Climate Change Act and Nigerian Climate and Health Observatory, exist, implementation is limited across many settings. Key reported respiratory pollutants in Nigeria include particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10), gaseous emissions (CO, SO₂, NOx), agricultural by-products (NH₃, H₂S), greenhouse gases (CH₄, CO₂), and microbial contaminants, which collectively increase the risk of respiratory inflammation, infections, and exacerbations of chronic respiratory symptoms and diseases. Our findings underscore a clear link between climate change and worsening respiratory health in many Nigerian settings. The current policies and programmes’ have limited impact, calling for comprehensive reforms, including improved enforcement and targeted action against major pollution sources, recognition of environmental rights, and stronger public health initiatives and community action.
EXPRESSION PROFILES OF CYTOCHROME P450 GENES ASSOCIATED WITH PERMETHRIN RESISTANCE IN Anopheles gambiae s.l. IN ADO-ODO OTA, OGUN STATE
(Covenant University Ota, 2025-10) AINA, Motunrayo Oluwabunmi; Covenant University Dissertation
Malaria remains a significant tropical public health threat, where resistance to insecticides constitutes a severe hindrance to the efficacy of its primary vector control methods. Routinely applied pyrethroid insecticides are increasingly facing resistance associated with the overexpression of cytochrome P450 genes in the Anopheles gambiae sensu lato, underscoring the urgent search into these associated genes. This study assessed the expression profile of cytochrome P450 genes associated with permethrin resistance in Anopheles gambiae sensu lato collected from three localities in Ado-Odo, Ota. Ethical approval was obtained from the Covenant Health Research Ethics Committee (CHREC). Based on the WHO standard, female adult An. gambiae larvae (n=300) were collected using the dipping method and reared into adults in the Insectary Laboratory. These laboratory-reared mosquitoes were phenotypically identified using microscopy and genotypically characterised using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based on species-specific primers. Thereafter, a WHO susceptibility bioassay was conducted in vivo for mosquitocidal activity against these adult mosquitoes in four replicates at a 0.75% permethrin concentration each on day 3 post-adult emergence. The relative expression of the cytochrome P450 genes (CYP6M2 and CYP6P3) was carried out using the quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Higher occurrence rate of An. gambiae sensu lato. was recorded in Nestle (80%)), Chelsea (78%)) compared Gasline (30%) localities of Ado-Odo. In vivo insecticide susceptibility testing revealed consistently low mortality rates across all the replicates, ranging from 20% to 32% indicating increased resistance to permethrin. Results of relative expression of cytochrome P450 genes showed higher fold changes in CYP6M2 ranging from 0.63 to 122.4 than in CYP6P3 0.63 to 34.39 across the tested mosquito replicates. Thus, this study has further emphasized the prevalence of An. gambiae sensu lato members in Ado-Odo, Ota. Additionally, the results of higher permethrin resistant and upregulation of CYP6M2 and CYP6P3 genes inform the imminent need for integrated resistance surveillance with newer vector management for improved malaria control.
FUNGAL-MEDIATED VANILLIC ACID PRODUCTION THROUGH BIOCONVERSION OF GALLIC ACID OBTAINED FROM RICE BRAN
(Covenant University Ota, 2025-08) OGUNBAJO, Oluwafemi Omolade; Covenant University Dissertation
Gallic and vanillic acids are naturally occurring phenolic compounds widely used in the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries due to their antioxidant properties. Rice bran is a nutrient-rich agro-industrial by-product. However, there are challenges of improper disposal and underutilization as a substrate for the production of valuable bioactive compounds. This study investigated the fungal-mediated bioconversion of rice bran into gallic acid under solid-state fermentation (SSF) and its subsequent transformation into vanillic acid through submerged fermentation (SMF) using Aspergillus niger. It was inoculated into a fermentation medium containing pre-treated rice bran and mineral salts and incubated for 5 days at 30 °C. Fermentation was monitored for pH, temperature, UV-Vis absorbance (276nm), and titration. The produced gallic acid was characterized using HPLC, GC-MS, and FTIR. Thereafter, 1% Methanol was introduced into a mineral salt medium containing the produced gallic acid as the substrate, and inoculated 1ml of the inoculum and incubated at 30 °C for 5 days. This was monitored and characterized as in the gallic acid production. During fermentation, the temperature ranged 28-33 °C, pH decreased from 6.5 to 5.2, the absorbance rose from 0.205 to 0.681 nm, and titration increased from 0.016 to 0.075 mol (p<0.05). HPLC quantified 6552.2 mg/L total phenolics, with gallic acid at 2569.8 mg/L. FTIR revealed gallic acid functional groups such as O–H, C=O, and C=C, while GC-MS identified volatile compounds including O-toluic acid, 2(1H)-naphthalene derivatives, and 3H-Cyclodeca[b]furan-2-one. For the vanillic acid production, fermentation filtrate temperature stayed at 29-30 oC, with the pH increasing in acidity from 6.5 to 4.3 through the 5-day period. This corresponded with the results of the titration, showing 0.016 to 0.079 mol results.The GC-MS showed volatile organic compounds present in vanillic acid, including protocatechuic, catechol, and syringic acids. HPLC quantified a total of 15,31203 mg/L of vanillic acid. FTIR revealed vanillic acid functional groups such as OCH₃, OH, and C=O. The results of this study provides strategic insights for sustainable bioprocess approaches in support of SDGs 3 and 12.
Heavy metal and genetic diversity studies in three populations of Snail (Achatina achatina Linnaeus, 1758) from Southwest, Nigeria
(Brazilian Journal of Biology,, 2024-07) Ayanda, Opeyemi I.; Popoola, J. O.; Inyanga, S.
Environmental pollutants may often alter the genetic components of natural populations. In this study, heavy metals and genetic diversity in land snail (Achatina achatina) from three populations of south-western Nigeria were investigated, using the Atomic Absorption Spectrometry and DNA Sequencing technology respectively. Metal analysis revealed that the snails accumulated lead (Pb) and nickel (Ni) in high concentrations in two of the three states, while cadmium (Cd) was the least detected. Editing and alignment of the sequences of all snail accessions generated a range of 384bp to 419 bp. Analysis of Molecular Variance (AMOVA) in all 18 accessions was low at only 16%. The query coverage (QC) ranged between 96% and 100%, with 14 (77.8%) of the 18 accessions showing 100% identity. Pairwise comparison of the accessions studied also showed a high genetic similarity. The unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) generated two main clusters. Cluster I was unique and contain one sample (AaOy06) while the other cluster are very closely related and can be further subdivided into sub-clusters. The similarity index of between the clusters is 0.5357. The close similarity among the accessions may be due to the geographical proximity of the three states. The uniqueness of accession AaOy06 in comparison to other accessions might be due to the negative influence of heavy metal, particularly lead. The determination of evolutionary relationships among snail populations may be useful towards the breeding efforts of the species in Nigeria