Research Articles (Medical Bioscience)

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Agent in urgent need of clinical practice: corilagin
(Bentham Science Publishers, 2023) Wang, Xuejia; Fisher, David; Pronyuk, Khrystyna
Corilagin is a naturally occurring water-soluble retrogallic acid tannin, which can be ex-tracted from many kinds of plants. Known at present, it is the main effective ingredient of Phyllanthus urinaria L., Geranium wilfordii Maxim., Phyllanthus matsumurae Hayata, and Trifolium repens L. It also exists in Phyllanthus emblica L., Dimocarpus longan Lour., Canarium album (Lour.) Raeusch., and Terminalia chebula Retz. It can participate in a variety of signaling pathways in vivo and has multiple biological activities, including antitumor, anti-microbial, anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, hepa-toprotective, anti-allergy, anti-proliferation and so on. Given the limited efficacy of first-line treatments for many diseases such as oncology, chronic liver disease, and rheumatic immune system dis-eases, and the potential for adverse effects to outweigh the therapeutic effects, attention is being fo-cused on alternative treatments, and natural plant extracts are a natural target for alternative treat-ments, as natural substances tend to have low toxicity to normal tissues. Some proprietary Chinese medicines containing corilagin have been used in clinical applications, being clinically applied to treat chronic liver disease, viral hepatitis B, rheumatoid arthritis and other diseases. This paper reviews the extraction, determination, distribution and harvesting, pharmacokinetics, biological activity, safety assessment of corilagin and its application in clinical practice.
Shaping the future rural healthcare landgeape: perspectives of young healtheare professionals
(James Cook University, 2024) Takalani, Ndivhuho Beauty; Couper, Ian; Lediga, Manoko Innocentia; Floss, Mayara
Introduction: Rural communities continue to struggle to access quality healthcare services. Even in countries where the majority of the population live in rural and remote areas, resources are concentrated in big cities, and this is continuing. As a result, countries with the highest proportion of rural residents correlate with the poorest access, which has negative implications for the health and wellbeing of people. Healthcare professionals (HCPs) have been identified as key informants in the construction and implementation of policies aimed at addressing rural health issues. We sought to understand the perspectives of young HCPs, representing the potential future rural workforce, regarding the future of rural health care. Methods: An interpretivist paradigm was adopted for the study. Data were collected in two phases over Zoom using semi-structured individual interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs). Participants included selected HCPs who are members of Rural Seeds, which is a global movement for young HCPs. A total of 11 exploratory interviews and six FGDs were conducted. The 11 interviewees consisted of medical doctors and medical students from 10 countries classified at different levels of development by the WHO. The six FGDs ranged from three to nine participants, and they included medical doctors and medical students, nurses and rehabilitation therapists. Participants came from South Asia, Africa, Asia-Pacific, North America and Europe, and South America. Both interviews and FGDs were conducted in English, recorded, and transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed utilising thematic analysis. Results: Similar themes were identified across both individual interviews and FGDs. The state of rural health care was perceived to be problematic by all the participants. Access to care, lack of equity and multiple socioeconomic challenges, particularly in relation to living conditions, human resources and infrastructure, were seen as the most significant issues in rural health care. Several ideas for addressing rural health issues, with examples, were proposed by the young HCPs from their perspectives as frontline healthcare providers. They particularly recognised the importance of addressing the local socioeconomic and developmental needs of rural communities, and the needs of present and future HCPs. Conclusion: Young health professionals from across the world interested in a rural career have common concerns about the state of rural health in their countries and constructive insights into how these can be addressed. They suggest effective solutions that must include listening to their voices
Distinct phenotype of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.1 in human primary cells but no increased host range in cell lines of putative mammalian reservoir species
(Elsevier B.V., 2024) Essaidi-Laziosi, Manel; Suliman, Tasnim; Pérez-Rodríguez, Francisco J.
SARS-CoV-2′s genetic plasticity has led to several variants of concern (VOCs). Here we studied replicative capacity for seven SARS-CoV-2 isolates (B.1, Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, Zeta, and Omicron BA.1) in primary reconstituted airway epithelia (HAE) and lung-derived cell lines. Furthermore, to investigate the host range of Delta and Omicron compared to ancestral SARS-CoV-2, we assessed replication in 17 cell lines from 11 non-primate mammalian species, including bats, rodents, insectivores and carnivores. Only Omicron's phenotype differed in vitro, with rapid but short replication and efficient production of infectious virus in nasal HAEs, in contrast to other VOCs, but not in lung cell lines. No increased infection efficiency for other species was observed, but Delta and Omicron infection efficiency was increased in A549 cells. Notably replication in A549 and Calu3 cells was lower than in nasal HAE. Our results suggest better adaptation of VOCs towards humans, without an extended host range, and may be relevant to the search for the putative intermediate host and reservoirs prior to the pandemic.
Combination treatment with EGFR Inhibitor and doxorubicin synergistically inhibits proliferation of MCF-7 cells and MDA-MB-231 triple-negative breast cancer cells in vitro
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), 2024) Abrahams, Beynon; Hiss, Donavon Charles; Gerber, Anthonie
The role of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in tumor progression and survival is often underplayed. Its expression and/or dysregulation is associated with disease advancement and poor patient outcome as well as drug resistance in breast cancer. EGFR is often overexpressed in breast cancer and particularly triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), which currently lacks molecular targets. We examined the synergistic potential of an EGFR inhibitor (EGFRi) in combination with doxorubicin (dox) in estrogen-positive (ER+) MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 TNBC cell lines. The exposure of MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 to EGFRi produced an IC50s of 6.03 µM and 3.96 µM, respectively. Dox induced MDA-MB-231 (IC50 9.67 µM) and MCF-7 (IC50 1.4 µM) cytotoxicity. Combinations of EGFRi-Dox significantly reduced the IC50 in MCF-7 (0.46 µM) and MBA-MB 231 (0.01 µM). Synergistic drug interactions in both cell lines were confirmed using the bliss independence model. Pro-apoptotic caspase-3/7 activation occurred in MCF-7 at 0.1–10 µM of EGFRi and dox single treatments, whilst 1 μM dox yielded a more potent effect on MDA-MB-231. EGFRi and Dox individually and in combination downregulated the EGFR gene expression in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 (p < 0.001). This study demonstrates EGFRi’s potential for eliciting synergistic interactions with dox, causing enhanced growth inhibition, apoptosis induction, and downregulation of EGFR in both cell lines.
Green synthesis of gold nanoparticles using liquiritin and other phenolics from glycyrrhiza glabra and their anti-inflammatory activity
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), 2024) Eltahir, Ali Omer Elssmani; David, Oladipupo Moyinoluwa; Pool, Edmund John
Phenolic compounds are the main phytochemical constituents of many higher plants. They play an important role in synthesizing metal nanoparticles using green technology due to their ability to reduce metal salts and stabilize them through physical interaction/conjugation to the metal surface. Six pure phenolic compounds were isolated from licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) and employed in synthesizing gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). The isolated compounds were identified as liquiritin (1), isoliquiritin (2), neoisoliquiritin (3), isoliquiritin apioside (4), liquiritin apioside (5), and glabridin (6). The synthesized AuNPs were characterized using UV, zeta sizer, HRTEM, and IR and tested for their stability in different biological media. The phenolic isolates and their corresponding synthesized NP conjugates were tested for their potential in vitro cytotoxicity. The anti-inflammatory effects were investigated in both normal and inflammation-induced settings, where inflammatory biomarkers were stimulated using lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) in the RAW 264.7 macrophage cell line. LPS, functioning as a mitogen, promotes cell growth by reducing apoptosis, potentially contributing to observed outcomes. Results indicated that all six pure phenolic isolates inhibited cell proliferation. The AuNP conjugates of all the phenolic isolates, except liquiritin apioside (5), inhibited cell viability. LPS initiates inflammatory markers by binding to cell receptors and setting off a cascade of events leading to inflammation.
Leukocytospermia and/or bacteriospermia: impact on male infertility
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), 2024) Henkel, Ralf
Infertility is a globally underestimated public health concern affecting almost 190 million people, i.e., about 17.5% of people during their lifetime, while the prevalence of male factor infertility is about 7%. Among numerous other causes, the prevalence of male genital tract infections reportedly ranges between 10% and 35%. Leukocytospermia is found in 30% of infertile men and up to 20% in fertile men. Bacterial infections cause an inflammatory response attracting leukocytes, which produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) and release cytokines, both of which can cause damage to sperm, rendering them dysfunctional. Although leukocytospermia and bacteriospermia are both clinical conditions that can negatively affect male fertility, there is still debate about their impact on assisted reproduction outcomes and management. According to World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, leukocytes should be determined by means of the Endtz test or with monoclonal antibodies against CD15, CD68 or CD22. The cut-off value proposed by the WHO is 1 × 106 peroxidase-positive cells/mL. For bacteria, Gram staining and semen culture are regarded as the “gold standard”, while modern techniques such as PCR and next-generation sequencing (NGS) are allowing clinicians to detect a wider range of pathogens
Monitoring of candida biofilm inhibition by galenia africana using real-time impedance-based technology
(Current Medical Mycology, 2024) Abrantes, Pedro; Stuurman, Keith Chesnay; Klaasen, Jeremy Arthur; Africa, Charlene Wilma Joyce
Background and Purpose: Yeasts of the Candida genus are responsible for localized and disseminated infections, especially in immunocompromised populations. These infections are exacerbated by the rapid increase in drug-resistant strains, which limits treatment options and increases patient morbidity and mortality. Therefore, the utilization of easily accessible natural products as alternatives to conventional medicines has gained interest. South Africa is home to a rich biodiverse natural flora of which many are known for their antimicrobial activity, including the antifungal effects of their plant extracts. Galenia africana (kraalbos) is a local indigenous plant found to have various traditional uses, including the treatment and prevention of various human infections. Materials and Methods: In this study, the activity of G. africana against Candida albicans and Candida glabrata preformed biofilm formation and its antibiofilm activity were tested using the xCELLigence system, which monitors biofilm formation in real time using impedance. Results: Presence of G. africana resulted in a dose-dependent decrease in Candida biofilms and was found to be effective in the prevention of Candida biofilm formation and disruption of the existing Candida biofilms. Conclusion: The xCELLigence impedance-based system proved to be an effective tool for medication screening. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported study to use real-time monitoring of a medicinal plant on microbial biofilm formation.
Insights into the prevalence and resistance patterns of candida species among diabetic patients in Cameroon: Potential paths for alternative treatments
(Science and Education Publishing, 2024) Abrantes, Pedro; Tsague, Kenfack; Dongmo, Dongho; Kouipou, Toghueo
The study aimed to fill the knowledge gap regarding the prevalence of Candida infections in diabetic patients and their sensitivity to antifungal drugs. Clinical samples from diabetic patients were collected at Yaoundé Central Hospital and Candida species identified. The ability of these species to form biofilms was assessed, and their susceptibility to usual antifungal drugs, as well as some plant extracts and fractions, was determined. Mycological diagnosis was performed on the collected samples. The Candida species isolated and identified were subjected to the crystal violet assay in a microtiter plate to examine their biofilm-forming abilities. The disk diffusion method was used for susceptibility testing for reference antifungals, while the broth dilution method was employed for plant extracts and fractions. These were obtained from the leaves of Picralima nitida, Phragmanthera capitata, and Spondia cythereae, and the roots and fruits of Garcinia Kola. The study found that 43.18% of the 396 collected samples were colonized by various Candida species, including Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis, Candida parapsilosis, Candida glabrata, Candida krusei, Candida guillermondii, Candida lusitaniae, and Candida ciferrii. Biofilm production was observed in 46.04% of the isolates, with non-albicans Candida species showing a higher rate than Candida albicans. The isolates exhibited high resistance to nystatin and ketoconazole, dose-dependent sensitivity to miconazole, and sensitivity to econazole and fluconazole. Multidrug resistance was observed in 24.75% of the isolates. While none of the crude extracts showed activity against the tested Candida, six out of 25 fractions (PnlB, PclA, PclW, SclA, SclW, and GkfW) displayed fungistatic activities on some strains. These findings offer valuable insights into the prevalence and antifungal resistance patterns of Candida species in diabetic patients in Cameroon. They also suggest the potential for alternative treatments using plant fractions.
Protective efficacy of a plant-produced beta variant rsars-cov-2 vlp vaccine in golden syrian hamsters
(Elsevier Ltd, 2024) Lemmer, Yolandy; Chapman, Ros; Shaw, Megan L.
In the quest for heightened protection against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants, we engineered a prototype vaccine utilizing the plant expression system of Nicotiana benthamiana, to produce a recombinant SARS-CoV-2 virus-like particle (VLP) vaccine presenting the S-protein from the Beta (B.1.351) variant of concern (VOC). This innovative vaccine, formulated with either a squalene oil-in-water emulsion or a synthetic CpG oligodeoxynucleotide adjuvant, demonstrated efficacy in a golden Syrian Hamster challenge model. The Beta VLP vaccine induced a robust humoral immune response, with serum exhibiting neutralization not only against SARS-CoV-2 Beta but also cross-neutralizing Delta and Omicron pseudoviruses. Protective efficacy was demonstrated, evidenced by reduced viral RNA copies and mitigated weight loss and lung damage compared to controls. This compelling data instills confidence in the creation of a versatile platform for the local manufacturing of potential pan-sarbecovirus vaccines, against evolving viral threats.
Therapeutic potential of natural products in schistosomiasis-associated liver fibrosis
(Frontiers Media SA, 2024) Liu, Cuiling; Fisher, David; Pronyuk, Khrystyna
Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease that endangers human health and social development. The granulomatous reaction of Schistosoma eggs in the liver is the main cause of hepatosplenomegaly and fibrotic lesions. Anti liver fibrosis therapy is crucial for patients with chronic schistosomiasis. Although Praziquantel is the only clinical drug used, it is limited in insecticide treatment and has a long-term large-scale use, which is forcing the search for cost-effective alternatives. Previous research has demonstrated that plant metabolites and extracts have effective therapeutic effects on liver fibrosis associated with schistosomiasis. This paper summarizes the mechanisms of action of metabolites and some plant extracts in alleviating schistosomiasis-associated liver fibrosis. The analysis was conducted using databases such as PubMed, google scholar, and China national knowledge infrastructure (CNKI) databases. Some plant metabolites and extracts ameliorate liver fibrosis by targeting multiple signaling pathways, including reducing inflammatory infiltration, oxidative stress, inhibiting alternate macrophage activation, suppressing hepatic stellate cell activation, and reducing worm egg load. Natural products improve liver fibrosis associated with schistosomiasis, but further research is needed to elucidate the effectiveness of natural products in treating liver fibrosis caused by schistosomiasis, as there is no reported data from clinical trials in the literature.
In silico identification of compounds from Piper sarmentosum Roxb leaf fractionated extract inhibit interleukin-6 to prevent rheumatoid arthritis
(Frontiers, 2024) Van De Tran; Tran Nhat Phong Dao; Sunday Amos Onikanni
Objective: Medicinal herbs with a phytonutrient background has been applied globally as major alternatives to ameliorate the continuous increase in rheumatoid arthritis cases worldwide. We herein aimed to critically examine the bioactive components of the medicinal herb Piper sarmentosum Roxb leaf fractionated extract for its potential to inhibit the influx of interleukin-6 (IL-6) in rheumatoid arthritis. Methods: The Schrödinger platform was employed as the main computational acumen for the screening of bioactive compounds identified and reference compounds subjected to molecular simulation (MDS) for analyzing the stability of docked complexes to assess fluctuations and conformational changes during protein–ligand interactions. Results: The values of the simulatory properties and principal component analysis (PCA) revealed the good stability of these phytochemicals in the active pocket of interleukin-6 (IL-6). Discussion: Our findings reveal new strategies in which these phytochemicals are potential inhibitory agents that can be modified and further evaluated to develop more effective agents for the management of rheumatoid arthritis, thereby providing a better understanding and useful model for the reproduction and/ or discovery of new drugs for the management of rheumatoid arthritis and its complications.
Current status of malaria control and elimination in Africa: epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, progress and challenges
(Springer Science and Business Media B.V., 2024) David, Fisher; Jiahuan, Li; Haragakiza, Jean Docile
The African continent carries the greatest malaria burden in the world. Falciparum malaria especially has long been the leading cause of death in Africa. Climate, economic factors, geographical location, human intervention and unstable security are factors influencing malaria transmission. Due to repeated infections and early interventions, the proportion of clinically atypical malaria or asymptomatic plasmodium carriers has increased significantly, which easily lead to misdiagnosis and missed diagnosis. African countries have made certain progress in malaria control and elimination, including rapid diagnosis of malaria, promotion of mosquito nets and insecticides, intermittent prophylactic treatment in high-risk groups, artemisinin based combination therapies, and the development of vaccines. Between 2000 and 2022, there has been a 40% decrease in malaria incidence and a 60% reduction in mortality rate in the WHO African Region. However, many challenges are emerging in the fight against malaria in Africa, such as climate change, poverty, substandard health services and coverage, increased outdoor transmission and the emergence of new vectors, and the growing threat of resistance to antimalarial drugs and insecticides. Joint prevention and treatment, identifying molecular determinants of resistance, new drug development, expanding seasonal malaria chemo-prevention intervention population, and promoting the vaccination of RTS, S/AS01 and R21/Matrix-M may help to solve the dilemma. China’s experience in eliminating malaria is conducive to Africa’s malaria prevention and control, and China-Africa cooperation needs to be constantly deepened and advanced. Our review aims to help the global public develop a comprehensive understanding of malaria in Africa, thereby contributing to malaria control and elimination.
The pathophysiology of rhabdomyolysis in ungulates and rats: towards the development of a rodent model of capture myopathy
(Springer, 2023) Kohn, Tertius A; Lubbe, Crystal; Meyer, Leith C. R
Capture myopathy (CM), which is associated with the capture and translocation of wildlife, is a life-threatening condition that causes noteworthy morbidity and mortality in captured animals. Such wildlife deaths have a significant impact on nature conservation efforts and the socio-economic wellbeing of communities reliant on ecotourism. Several strategies are used to minimise the adverse consequences associated with wildlife capture, especially in ungulates, but no successful preventative or curative measures have yet been developed. The primary cause of death in wild animals diagnosed with CM stems from kidney or multiple organ failure as secondary complications to capture-induced rhabdomyolysis. Ergo, the development of accurate and robust model frameworks is vital to improve our understanding of CM. Still, since CM-related complications are borne from biological and behavioural factors that may be unique to wildlife, e.g. skeletal muscle architecture or flighty nature, certain differences between the physiology and stress responses of wildlife and rodents need consideration in such endeavours. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to summarise some of the major etiological and pathological mechanisms of the condition as it is observed in wildlife and what is currently known of CM-like syndromes, i.e. rhabdomyolysis, in laboratory rats. Additionally, we will highlight some key aspects for consideration in the development and application of potential future rodent models.
Microplastic sources, formation, toxicity and remediation: A review
(Springer, 2023) Osman, Ahmed I.; Hosny, Mohamed; Akinyede, Kolajo Adedamola
Microplastic pollution is becoming a major issue for human health due to the recent discovery of microplastics in most ecosystems. Here, we review the sources, formation, occurrence, toxicity and remediation methods of microplastics. We distinguish ocean-based and land-based sources of microplastics. Microplastics have been found in biological samples such as faeces, sputum, saliva, blood and placenta. Cancer, intestinal, pulmonary, cardiovascular, infectious and inflammatory diseases are induced or mediated by microplastics. Microplastic exposure during pregnancy and maternal period is also discussed. Remediation methods include coagulation, membrane bioreactors, sand filtration, adsorption, photocatalytic degradation, electrocoagulation and magnetic separation. Control strategies comprise reducing plastic usage, behavioural change, and using biodegradable plastics. Global plastic production has risen dramatically over the past 70 years to reach 359 million tonnes. China is the world's top producer, contributing 17.5% to global production, while Turkey generates the most plastic waste in the Mediterranean region, at 144 tonnes per day. Microplastics comprise 75% of marine waste, with land-based sources responsible for 80–90% of pollution, while ocean-based sources account for only 10–20%. Microplastics induce toxic effects on humans and animals, such as cytotoxicity, immune response, oxidative stress, barrier attributes, and genotoxicity, even at minimal dosages of 10 μg/mL.
Effects of temperature and storage time on the motility, viability, DNA integrity and apoptosis of processed human spermatozoa
(Wiley, 2019) Iranpour, Farhad Golshan; Nateghian, Zohre; Henkel, Ralf
The aim of this study was to evaluate motility, viability, DNA integrity and apoptosis of spermatozoa when washed semen samples were kept for up to 12 days at 4–6°C and 25°C. In this experimental study, 26 normozoospermic semen samples were washed twice in Modified Ham's F10 and resuspended in IVF fertilisation medium. Half of the specimens were stored at 4–6°C, and the other half was kept at 25°C for 12 days. The proportions of viable, motile, spermatozoa with double-stranded DNA and apoptotic spermatozoa were examined during storage time. Apoptosis was measured using annexin V-PI staining followed by flow cytometry. Results showed that sperm motility and viability decreased during 12 days of sample storage (p < .001). There was no significant difference between the two temperatures in terms of motility and viability for up to 2 days (p < .05).
Critical evaluation of two models of flow cytometers for the assessment of sperm DNA fragmentation: an appeal for performance verification
(Medknow Publications, 2019) Sharma, Rakesh; Gupta, Sajal; Henkel, Ralf
Lack of standardized, reproducible protocols and reference values is among the challenges faced when using new or upgraded versions of instruments in reproductive laboratories and flow cytometry. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay combined with flow cytometry routinely used for diagnostic measurement of sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) is a unique example. Any change in the setting of the standard instrument, including upgrades of hardware or software, can lead to different results and may affect clinicians’ decision for treatment. Therefore, we compared TUNEL results of SDF obtained from a standard (C6) flow cytometer with a newer version of the same instrument (C6 Plus) and examined the cutoff, sensitivity, and specificity without calibration (adjustment) and after adjustment. Identical sperm preparation and matched acquisition settings were used to examine the performance of two flow cytometers. The strength of agreement of the results between the two observers was also assessed. After adjustment of the settings, overall concordance became high and the two cytometers showed 100% positive and negative predictive value with 100% area under the curve. The overall correlation coefficient observed between C6 and C6 Plus was highly significant (P < 0.0001; r = 0.992; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.982–0.997). After adjustment, the two cytometers showed very high precision of 98% and accuracy of >99%. The interobserver agreement on C6 flow cytometer for the two observers was 0.801 ± 0.062 and 0.746 ± 0.044 for C6 Plus. We demonstrated a strong agreement between the samples tested on the two flow cytometers after calibration and established the robustness of both instruments.
Autoimmune progesterone dermatitis: Case report with history of urticaria, petechiae and palpable pinpoint purpura triggered by medical abortion
(South African Medical Association, 2016) Mbonile, Lumuli
Autoimmune progesterone dermatitis (APD) is a rare autoimmune response to raised endogenous progesterone levels that occur during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Cutaneous, mucosal lesions and other systemic manifestations develop cyclically during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle when progesterone levels are elevated. APD symptoms usually start 3 - 10 days before menstruation and resolve 1 - 2 days after menstruation ceases. A 30-year-old woman presented with urticaria, petechiae and palpable pinpoint purpura lesions of the legs, forearms, neck and buttocks 1 week prior to her menses starting and 2 months after a medical abortion. She was diagnosed with allergic contact dermatitis and topical steroids were prescribed. Her skin conditions did not improve and were associated with her menstrual cycle. We performed an intradermal test using progesterone, which was positive. She was treated with oral contraceptive pills and the symptoms were resolved. This is a typical case of APD triggered by increased sensitivity to endogenous progesterone induced a few months after medical abortion.
Contaminants of emerging concern (cecs) and male reproductive health: Challenging the future with a double-edged sword
(MDPI, 2023) Marcu, Daniel; Keyser, Shannen; Petrik, Leslie
Approximately 9% of couples are infertile, with half of these cases relating to male factors. While many cases of male infertility are associated with genetic and lifestyle factors, approximately 30% of cases are still idiopathic. Contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) denote substances identified in the environment for the first time or detected at low concentrations during water quality analysis. Since CEC production and use have increased in recent decades, CECs are now ubiquitous in surface and groundwater. CECs are increasingly observed in human tissues, and parallel reports indicate that semen quality is continuously declining, supporting the notion that CECs may play a role in infertility. This narrative review focuses on several CECs (including pesticides and pharmaceuticals) detected in the nearshore marine environment of False Bay, Cape Town, South Africa, and deliberates their potential effects on male fertility and the offspring of exposed parents, as well as the use of spermatozoa in toxicological studies.
Trends in semen parameters of infertile men in South Africa and Nigeria
(2023) Akang, Edidiong Nnamso; Opuwari, Chinyerum Sylvia; Enyioma‑Alozie, Swesme
There are conflicting reports on trends of semen parameters from different parts of the globe. However, in recent times there is dearth of information on the trend in Sub-Saharan countries. Therefore, in this study we aimed at determining the trends in semen parameters in Nigeria and South Africa between 2010 and 2019. A retrospective study of semen analyses of 17,292 men attending fertility hospitals in Nigeria and South Africa in 2010, 2015 and 2019. Patients who had undergone vasectomy and those who had a pH less than 5 or greater than 10 were excluded from this study. The following variables were assessed: ejaculate volume, sperm concentration, progressive motility, total progressively motile sperm count (TPMSC), total sperm count, and normal sperm morphology. Between 2010 and 2019, significant trends of decreasing values were observed in normal sperm morphology (− 50%), and the ejaculatory volume (− 7.4%), indicating a progressive deterioration of the values in both countries. In Nigeria, there were significant decreases in progressive motility (− 87%), TPMSC (− 78%), and sperm morphology (− 55%) between 2010 and 2019 (P < 0.001). Spearman`s rank correlation revealed significant negative associations between age and morphology (ρ = − 0.24, P < 0.001), progressive motility (ρ = − 0.31. P < 0.001), and TPMSC (ρ = − 0.32, P < 0.001). Patients in South Africa were younger than those from Nigeria, with also a significantly higher sperm morphology, sperm concentration, progressive motility, total sperm count and TPMSC. Our findings provide a quantitative evidence of an alarming decreasing trend in semen parameters in Nigeria and South Africa from 2010 to 2019. It also proves that astheno- and teratozoospermia are the leading causes of male infertility in these regions. In addition to this, it also shows empirically that semen parameters decrease with advancement in age. These findings are the first report of temporal trends in semen parameters in Sub-Saharan countries, necessitating a thorough investigation on the underlying factors promoting this worrisome decline.
Fiber type and metabolic characteristics of skeletal muscle in 16 breeds of domestic dogs
(Wiley, 2023) van Boom, Kathryn M.; Schoeman, Johan P.; Kohn, Tertius A.
The domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris) species comprises hundreds of breeds, each differing in physical characteristics, behavior, strength, and running capability. Very little is known about the skeletal muscle composition and metabolism between the different breeds, which may explain disease susceptibility. Muscle samples from the triceps brachii (TB) and vastus lateralis (VL) were collected post mortem from 35 adult dogs, encompassing 16 breeds of varying ages and sex. Samples were analyzed for fiber type composition, fiber size, oxidative, and glycolytic metabolic capacity (citrate synthase [CS], 3-hydroxyacetyl-coA dehydrogenase [3HAD], creatine kinase [CK], and lactate dehydrogenase [LDH] enzyme activities).

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