The Nigerian Journal of Immunology was a half yearly official publication of the NSI. It was first published in 1988, and it replaced its fore-runner, the Immunology Seminar Series, which was inaugurated in 1982 in Ibadan. The aim of the journal was to provide a forum for the sustained dissemination of knowledge and progress in Biomedicine to students, teachers and practitioners of Immunology. The founding editor was Dr. O.A.A. Akinwolere of the institute of Child Health, University College Hospital Ibadan. The volume 1 was published in 1988 during his tenure. He was succeeded by Prof. Anthonia A. Okerengwo, who had served as his Assistant Editor. The volume 2, issues 1 & 2 (1989) was published in 1990. The Nigerian Journal of Immunology was recently resuscitated with Prof. C. C. Onyenekwe as the Editor-in-Chief and Dr. S. K. Rahamon as the Editorial Manager
Serum Levels of Selected Cellular and Humoral Factors in Children with Recurrent Ear Infections Attending University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Ilorin, Kwara State
Background: Ear infections are known to mostly affect young children. It is commonly caused by bacterial or viral infection in the middle ear. Previous studies have attributed it to immature immunity coupled with an anatomical characteristics of the Eustachian tube in young children as opposed to adults. This study was designed to investigate selected cellular and humoral factors in children with recurrent ear infections attending the University of Ilorin Teaching hospital, Ilorin, Kwara State. Materials and Methods: After obtaining ethical approval, 90 participants comprising 50 children with recurrent ear infections and 40 apparently healthy, age-matched controls were recruited into this case-control study. Total white blood cell (WBC) count and differentials were determined using haemocytometry, serum IgG level was determined using ELISA, while total protein and albumin levels were determined using spectrophotometry. Data were analysed using the Student’s t-test and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. P-values less than 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: Among the cases, 64.70% of the patients were males, while 35.3% were females. Patients with recurrent ear infections had significantly decreased total WBC count and absolute neutrophil count but an increased eosinophil count compared to controls. However, serum levels of IgG, total protein, albumin, total globulin and albumin/globulin ratio were similar between the patients and controls. Conclusion: Chronic otitis media is characterized by leukopenia and neutropenia, but the total protein profile remains unaltered. Children with chronic otitis media have compromised cellular immune defence which may increase their vulnerability to other infections.
Copyright (c) 2025 The Nigerian Journal of Immunology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Serum Factor Inhibiting Leucocyte Migration in Nigerian School Children Infected with Schistosoma haematobium: A Possible Impediment to Vaccine Response
Background: Schistosoma haematobium survives intravascularly for many years in the host through complex but poorly understood parasite adaptation and immune evasion mechanisms which could impair vaccine response. This study aimed to detect and partially characterise a serum factor in infected Nigerian schoolchildren that inhibits leucocyte migration, with potential implications for the efficacy of future schistosome vaccines. Materials and Methods: Leucocytes from fifteen urinary schistosomiasis (USS) patients and ten controls were stimulated for migration in the capillary tube using Schistosoma adult worm antigen (SAWA) with or without autologous or heterologous serum or SAWA eluates from Sephadex G200 column chromatography. The pooled eluate was partially characterised using standard methods. Results: Percentage leucocyte migration index (%LMI) was significantly reduced in USS patients compared with the controls when SAWA or SAWA+USS serum was used to stimulate leucocyte migration. The %LMI of USS patients was significantly reduced in SAWA+autologous serum compared with SAWA+heterologous serum or SAWA alone. Eluates (in tubes 20 and 21) collected from column chromatography showed significantly reduced %LMI compared with eluates from other tubes, and was not affected by temperatures (-200C to 560C) or storage for up to 12 weeks. The molecular weight of pooled eluate was 108 kD. It moved at gamma-globulin band in electrophoresis, stained for glycoprotein, and was digested by papain or trypsin. Conclusion: The unidentified serum factor that inhibited autologous leucocyte migration in patients with USS appears distinct from previously described factors. Adult Schistosoma may use this factor to evade host immune responses and may potentially impair the efficacy of schistosome vaccines.
Serum Adiponectin Relates Inversely with Helicobacter pylori Infection among Nigerian Adults
Background: Adiponectin, an adipocyte-derived protein, plays key physiological roles in regulating energy metabolism, enhancing insulin sensitivity, and exerting potent anti-inflammatory and anti-atherogenic effects. Low adiponectin levels have been associated with an increased risk of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. Reports indicate that Helicobacter pylori infection (HpI) results in chronic inflammation, primarily through the induction of pro-inflammatory cytokines and adipokines production, which in turn may contribute to insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, and alterations in body mass index. Currently, there is limited information on the relationship between adiponectin level and HpI. Therefore, we determined the serum level of adiponectin in Nigerian adults with HPI in this study. Materials and Methods: A total of 277 adults, comprising 185 males and 92 females, aged 18 - 72 years, were recruited from a University in Northern Nigeria. Adiponectin level and anti-Helicobacter pylori IgA and/or IgG antibodies were determined using ELISA. The Student’s t-test, Spearman’s correlation and binary logistic regression analysis were used for statistical analysis at p<0.05. Results: The mean serum adiponectin level was significantly lower in males (1.26 ± 0.4 µg/L) and females (1.29 ± 0.4 µg/L) with HpI compared to the males (1.58 ± 0.2 µg/L) and females (1.58 ± 0.2 µg/L) without HpI. Furthermore, HpI showed an inverse association with adiponectin levels in both sexes. Conclusion: Irrespective of sex, there is an inverse relationship between H. pylori infection and serum adiponectin level. This indicates that H. pylori infection contributes not only to gastrointestinal pathology but also to systemic metabolic risk.
Metabolic Syndrome and Inflammation: Exploring the Anti-inflammatory Effects of Therapeutic Lifestyle Modifications
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of interconnected disorders that significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus, posing a major public health challenge worldwide. A growing body of evidence indicates that inflammation plays a central role in the pathophysiology of MetS, with elevated levels of pro-inflammatory markers strongly associated with its development. Lifestyle interventions, including dietary modifications, physical activity, weight management, and stress reduction, have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve metabolic profiles. In this narrative review, we highlighted current evidence on the effects of lifestyle modifications on key inflammatory mediators, such as cytokines, C-reactive protein (CRP), and adipokines, in adults with MetS. Additionally, we discussed the mechanisms through which these interventions mitigate inflammation and their potential for improving clinical outcomes.
Immunoadolescence: Dynamics of the Immune System during Adolescence
Over the years, the immune system has been extensively studied in relation to various diseases, generating a substantial body of data on both adults and children. Unexpectedly, data on its dynamics and responses across different age groups, particularly in adolescents transitioning from childhood to adulthood, remain limited. Detailed understanding of the immune response in this transition phase is of clinical importance as it coincides with a period marked by hormonal changes, particularly the rise in sex hormones like oestrogen and testosterone, which impact immune function and overall health. The immune response during adolescence, termed immunoadolescence, is discussed in this review article as increased knowledge about immunoadolescence may facilitate the development of new personalised and adolescent specific diagnostic tools and therapeutic interventions.
Alteration in Serum Levels of C-Reactive Protein, Circulating Immune Complexes and Neutrophil Phagocytic Activity in Auto-Mechanics Occupationally Exposed to Environmental Pollutants
Background: Auto-mechanics are at risk of chemical toxicity due to routine exposure, which may predispose them to immune disorders. Findings from experimental studies revealed that various environmental chemicals can alter immune system components and functions. However, there is limited information on the effects of prolonged exposure to multiple chemicals in automobile workers and its impact on immune function. This study aimed to assess serum levels of circulating immune complexes (CICs), C-reactive protein (CRP), and neutrophil phagocytic activity in auto-mechanics. Materials and Methods: One hundred (100) male adults comprising 50 auto-mechanics and 50 apparently healthy, age- and sex-matched controls were recruited into this case-control study. Neutrophil phagocytic activity, and serum levels of CRP and CICs were determined using the nitroblue tetrazolium dye reduction test (NBT), immunoturbidimetric and spectrophotometric methods, respectively. P-values less than 0.05 were considered as statistically significant. Results: The mean serum level of CIC was significantly higher in auto-mechanics (26.0 ± 9.3 µgEq/ml) compared with the controls (19.6 ± 11.8 µgEq/ml). Similarly, the mean serum level of CRP was slightly higher in auto-mechanics (26.2 ± 23.4 mg/l) compared with the controls (18.8 ± 14.9 mg/l). In contrast, phagocytic activity of neutrophils was slightly lower in auto-mechanics (55.3 ± 10.8%) compared with the controls (58.1 ± 6.6%). Conclusion: Occupational exposure to chemicals altered immune response in auto-mechanics, increasing their risk of developing immune-complex-mediated disorders.
Inflammation and Dysfunction of Organs in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder associated with several complications, with inflammation playing a key role in the pathophysiology of the associated-complications. Presently, there is limited information on the relationship between inflammation and organ dysfunction in Nigerians with T2DM. This study was therefore, conducted to determine the plasma levels of tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) and their relationship with biomarkers of hepatic (total protein, alanine transaminase; ALT and aspartate aminotransferase; AST), renal (Cystatin-C, urea, and creatinine) and cardiac (creatine kinase-MB; CK-MB) functions in T2DM patients. Materials and Methods: Ninety four patients with T2DM and 50 healthy controls were enrolled into this case-control study. Blood samples were analysed for cystatin-C, CK-MB, total protein, IL-10, TNF-α, urea, creatinine, ALT and AST levels using ELISA, immunoturbidimetry, and spectrophotometry, as appropriate. Results: Diabetes patients exhibited significantly higher plasma levels of IL-10, cystatin-C, CK-MB, ALT, AST, TP and plasma glucose compared with the controls. However, the plasma levels of TNF-α, urea and creatinine were not significantly different between the groups. The plasma level of TNF-α had significant positive correlation with plasma levels of glucose, cystatin-C, CK-MB, ALT and AST. Similarly, the plasma IL-10 level had significant positive correlation with plasma levels of glucose, cystatin-C, CK-MB, ALT and ASTs but had a significant negative correlation with plasma TP level. Conclusion: Relationship exists between inflammation and dysfunction of organs in T2DM patients. This underscores the role of inflammation in T2DM-associated complications.
CD4+ T-Cell Count, and Plasma Levels of Thymosin β4 and Prolactin in Patients with HIV-1 and Tuberculosis Co-infection
Background: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and tuberculosis (TB) are among the leading global public health problems with significant morbidity and mortality. Although the immunologic signatures of the diseases, characterised by depressed immune responses, have been established, there is the need to confirm the immunologic complications during HIV/TB coinfection. This study was thus, designed to determine the CD4+ T-cell count, and plasma levels of thymosin β4 (Tβ4) and prolactin in patients with HIV/TB co-infection. Materials and Methods: Two hundred adults comprising 50 HIV-1 patients, 50 TB patients, 40 patients with HIV/TB co-infection and 60 healthy, non-infected controls participated in this study. Plasma levels of Tβ4 and prolactin were determined using ELISA while the CD4+ T-cell count was done using flow cytometry. Results: The mean CD4+ T-cell count was significantly lower in patients with HIV-1, TB and HIV/TB co-infection compared the controls. The mean CD4+ T-cell count was significantly lower in patients with HIV/TB co-infection compared with patients infected with TB only. The mean plasma level of Tβ4 was similar in patients with HIV-1, TB, HIV/TB co-infection and controls. However, the mean plasma level of prolactin was significantly higher in patients with HIV-1 only and patients with HIV/TB co-infection compared with the controls. Plasma levels of Tβ4, prolactin and CD4+ T-cell count had no significant correlation in patients with TB, HIV-1 and HIV/TB co-infection. Conclusion: Co-infection with HIV-1 and TB could be associated with significant reduction in CD4+ T-cell count. Also, elevated prolactin level could be a feature of HIV-1 infection and not TB infection.
Copyright (c) 2024 The Nigerian Journal of Immunology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Plasma Levels of Tumour Necrosis Factor-Alpha, Interferon-gamma, C-Reactive Protein, 25-Hydroxycholecalciferol and Cortisol in Female Users of Bleaching Creams
Background: Skin bleaching is a public health problem associated with several adverse health effects. Although reports have shown that certain chemical constituents of the bleaching creams disrupt the innate immunity of the skin, their effects on systemic inflammatory processes and cholesterol metabolism have not been well researched into in Nigerians using bleaching creams. This study was designed to determine the plasma levels of selected markers of inflammation and metabolites of cholesterol metabolism in users of bleaching creams. Materials and Methods: Twenty-eight females who have used bleaching creams for at least, 2 years were enrolled into this study. Twenty age- and sex-matched non-bleaching females served as the controls. Plasma levels of tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), C-reactive protein (CRP), 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25-OHCC), and cortisol were determined using ELISA while the plasma level of total cholesterol (TC) was determined using spectrophotometry. Results: Plasma levels of TNF-α, TC and cortisol were significantly lower, while the CRP level was significantly higher in users of bleaching creams compared with the controls. The plasma levels of IFN-γ and 25-OHCC were not significantly different in users of bleaching creams compared with the controls. The exposure duration had significant negative correlation with plasma levels of cholesterol and cortisol but a significant positive correlation with CRP in users of bleaching agents. Conclusion: There is alteration in the plasma levels of inflammatory markers and cholesterol metabolites in users of bleaching creams. There is therefore, the need for public health interventions to prevent and discourage the use of bleaching creams among Nigerians.
Level of Awareness of Allergology and its Relationship with Continuous Education and Professional Training among Students and Practitioners of Medical Laboratory Science in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria
Background: Knowledge and competency in allergology among healthcare professionals is essential in achieving better diagnosis, management, and treatment of allergic conditions. Achieving competency in allergology requires a structured approach to education and professional training. Presently, there is limited information on the knowledge of allergology among Nigerian Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) practitioners and students, whose roles in the diagnosis of allergic disorders cannot be overemphasized. This study was therefore, designed to assess knowledge of allergology among MLS students and practitioners in Jos, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A total of 530 participants consisting of MLS students and practitioners were enrolled into this exploratory descriptive cross-sectional study. Information on allergology was obtained using a semi-structured interviewer-based questionnaire with both open-ended and close-ended questions. Data were analysed using Chi-square and P-value less than 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: More than two-third (68.3%) of the study participants were aware of allergology or allergic diseases. Of all the participants, only 11.1% had allergology included in their training curriculum while 9.1% had attended professional training on allergology. There was significant association between the level of allergology awareness and the inclusion of allergology in MLS training curriculum as well as professional training in allergology. Conclusion: The level of allergology awareness among MLS students and practitioners in Jos, Nigeria is high but allergology is not accorded the desired attention in the curriculum of MLS students. Therefore, there is the need to include comprehensive modules on allergology in the curriculum of MLS students in Nigeria to achieve the desired competencies in allergology.
Effect of Prenatal Vitamin D Supplementation on Plasma Level of Tumour Necrosis Factor-Alpha and Selected Indices of Insulin Resistance in Offspring of Rats with Maternal Immune Activation
Background: Maternal immune activation (MIA) predisposes the offspring to developing myriads of pathologies. Due to lack of information on the ameliorative effects of prenatal vitamin D supplementation on MIA-associated pathologies, effects of prenatal vitamin D supplementation on tumour necrosis factor- alpha (TNF-α) level and selected indices of insulin resistance (IR) in offspring of rats with MIA were determined. Materials and Methods: Twelve pregnant rats were sub-divided into 2 groups consisting of 6 rats each. On day 15 of gestation, 3 rats in Groups I (LO15) were administered lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (5 mg/kg body weight, single dose) intraperitoneally while the remaining 3 rats in the group (LVD15) were administered the same dose of LPS with Vitamin D3 (500 IU) orally, 3 times a week till birth. Rats in Group II served as the controls. Offspring of the rats were euthanized on day 42 and blood analysed for blood glucose (BG) level, and plasma insulin and TNF-α levels using appropriate methods. Histology of the pancreas was done using standard method. Results: Insulin and BG levels were slightly lower while TNF-α level was slightly higher in LO15 offspring compared with offspring of the controls. There was marked reduction in TNF-α level in the offspring of LVD15 compared with LO15 offspring. Atrophy of the acinar cells of the pancreas was observed in LO15 offspring but not in LVD15 offspring. Conclusion: Prenatal vitamin D supplementation reversed subtle alterations in glucose, insulin, TNF-α levels, and atrophy of the pancreatic acinar cells in offspring of rats with maternal immune activation.
Seroprevalence of Hepatitis E Virus Infection among HIV-infected Patients in Saki, Oyo State, Nigeria
Background: Viral hepatitis, including Hepatitis E virus (HEV), causes liver related illnesses. HEV infection, primarily transmitted via the fecal-oral route, poses a risk to public health, particularly in developing countries. Herein, we report the seroprevalence of Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) among Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infected patients in Oyo State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A total of 155 HIV-infected patients aged between 20 and 75 years were recruited into this hospital-based, cross-sectional study from the Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) Clinic at the State Hospital Saki. Serological testing for HEV IgM antibodies was performed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) while the CD4+ T cell count was done using flow cytometry. Results: The overall seroprevalence of HEV IgM antibody among the study participants was 1.9% (3 out of 155). Higher prevalence was observed in males (9.5%) compared to the females (0.7%). A significant association was observed between HEV seroprevalence and gender. Conclusion: There is low prevalence of HEV infection among HIV-infected patients in Saki area of Oyo State. This finding does not, however, undermine the importance of routine surveillance for HEV co-infection with HIV, particularly in regions with limited access to safe drinking water and poor sanitation.
Production and Safety of Plasma-Derived Immunoglobulins for Passive Immunization in Nigeria
Background: Passive immunization with plasma-derived immunoglobulins (PDIs) is crucial for managing infectious diseases in Nigeria, but limited local production and concerns about safety and quality hinder accessibility and affordability. Aim and Objective: This systematic review was used to evaluate the production and safety of PDIs in Nigeria, identify challenges, and propose improvement strategies. Materials and Methods: Comprehensive searches were conducted, eligible studies were screened and assessed for quality, and data synthesis and analysis were performed to reveal current production processes, safety profile, and existing gaps. Results: The findings emphasize the need for enhanced local production, regulatory frameworks, and safety measures to improve access to PDIs in Nigeria. Ethical considerations, participant recruitment strategies, and robust sample collection protocols are essential to safeguard donor and recipient well-being. Collaboration with healthcare facilities, community organizations, and media campaigns facilitate participant identification. Donor eligibility criteria, comprehensive screening, and standardized collection procedures guarantee the quality of collected samples, while strict data protection guidelines maintain participant confidentiality. This systematic approach ensures the safety and suitability of plasma donations for PDI production in Nigeria, contributing to improved accessibility and effectiveness in passive immunization strategies. The work provides an overview of current production processes, technologies, safety profile, and challenges in the production and safety of PDIs. It also proposes strategies to enhance production and safety, identifies research and knowledge gaps, and highlights the importance of collaborative efforts involving government support, infrastructure development, improved regulatory oversight, and knowledge sharing. Conclusion: Implementing the suggested strategies and conducting further research can improve Nigeria's local production capabilities, ensure the safety of plasma-derived immunoglobulins, and enhance access to these essential therapies.
Assessment of Tumour Necrosis Factor-Alpha-Neutrophil Ratio as a Marker of Inflammation in Adult Patients with Pulmonary Tuberculosis in Zaria, Nigeria
Background: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Complications of the disease is associated with the host’s inflammatory response. This study was designed to determine the use of tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)-neutrophil ratio as a biomarker of inflammation among adult patients with pulmonary tuberculosis in Zaria. Materials and Methods: Ninety adults consisting of 30 drug-naïve (DNTB) TB patients, 30 TB patients on treatment (TTB) and 30 apparently healthy controls (HC) were enrolled into this study. Plasma concentration of TNF-α was determined using ELISA while the % neutrophils count was determined microscopically. Thereafter, ratio of TNF-α to neutrophils was calculated appropriately. Results: There was significant elevation in TNF-α concentration in TTB compared with the HC. In contrast, there was significant reduction in the mean percentage neutrophil count in TTB compared with the HC. In DNTB, there was significant elevation in mean percentage neutrophil count compared with the HC and TTB. There was significant elevation in the median TNF-α-neutrophil ratio in TTB compared with the HC while there was significant reduction in the ratio in DNTB compared with TTB. No significant difference was observed in the ratio when DNTB was compared with the HC. Conclusion: The ratio of TNF-α to neutrophil appears to be dependent on the treatment-status of patients with tuberculosis. The use of the ratio as a surrogate marker of inflammation in patients with tuberculosis requires further study.
Haemocytometric Profile and Liver Function Indices in Pupils Infected with Parasites in Kwara State, Nigeria
Background: Parasitic infections are associated with significant morbidity and mortality especially in school-aged children. Presently, there is little information on the effects of parasitic infections on haemocytometric profile and liver function in school-aged children in Kwara State, Nigeria. This study was therefore, designed to determine the haemocytometric profile, activities of selected liver enzymes and total protein levels in pupils infected with parasites in selected areas of Kwara State. Materials and Methods: A total of 638 pupils, aged 5 – 13 years, were enrolled into this study. Stool, urine, and blood samples were appropriately collected and examined for parasites using the Concentration techniques, Giemsa staining, and microscopy. Haemocytometric profile, activities of selected liver enzymes and plasma levels of total protein were determined using appropriate methods. Results: One hundred and fourteen (19.6%) pupils were infected with parasites. There were significantly higher counts of neutrophil, monocyte and eosinophil in pupils infected with parasites than the controls. Similarly, there were significantly higher plasma activities of alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase and total protein in pupils infected with parasites than the controls. In contrast, there were significantly lower platelets count, haemoglobin concentration and haematocrit in pupils infected with parasites than the controls. Conclusion: Pupils infected with parasites in Kwara State exhibited altered haemocytometric profile and liver function. Routine screening for parasitic infections is thus suggested in school-aged children in Kwara State.
Copyright (c) 2023 The Nigerian Journal of Immunology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal Plants Traditionally used to Boost Immunity in Oyo State, Southwestern Nigeria
Background: The innate pharmacological potentials of plants have been extensively explored in the development of therapeutics to cure many ailments. To achieve this, the science of ethnobotany served as a guide, leading to the discovery of many different compounds. This study aimed at documenting medicinal plants that are traditionally used to boost immunity against many pathogenic, viral, and bacterial infections in Oyo State, Southwestern Nigeria. Materials and Methods: Three study sites (Ibadan, Ago-Are, and Iseyin) where the practice of traditional medicine is evident were covered in this study and the study data were obtained using a structured questionnaire written in English and orally translated in respondents’ local language. The scientific names, common names, and families of the plants were validated through the plant database; www.worldflora.org. Information regarding the respondents’ demography, local immune-boosting plants, plant parts used, mode of preparation, dosage, and administration of remedies were collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics, the relative frequency of citation (RFC), and medicinal use value (UV). Results: Thirty-nine plant species belonging to 35 different families were documented to boost immunity in the study area. Allium sativum, Zingiber officinale, Phoenix dactylifera, Parquetina nigrescens and Garcinia kola showed high medicinal importance with RFC values 0.46, 0.32, 0.24, 0.19 and 0.16 respectively. The leaves are the most frequently used plant part mostly prepared by infusion and administered orally. The plants are used singly and in combinations. Conclusion: This study has presented a documentary of plants with claims to boost immunity. Experimental studies should, however, be carried out to further establish these claims scientifically.
Immunoassay Determination of Prevalence and Pattern of Urinary Drug Substances among Male Students in A Secondary School within Ibadan Metropolis, Nigeria
Background: Immunological techniques are required for a wide variety of investigative work in diagnosis but its relevance in education practice is under-studied. This study established the prevalence and pattern of urine drug substance using immunoassay among secondary school students with a view to prevent health complications of drug substance use. It also depicts the need for concerted efforts of life scientists especially immunologists, parents, teachers and old students association in achieving excellent academic performances. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study used Drug Abuse Screening Test (DAST) questionnaires and urine immunoassay device to determine possible substance abuse in 830 male secondary school students in Ibadan, Nigeria. Results: Based on DAST analysis, 79.4%, 6.4% and 1.7% of all students needed mild, intensive and severe levels of substance abuse counselling respectively. Higher proportion (58.9%) of students in Junior Secondary Classes 1-3 compared with 41.9% of students in Senior Secondary Classes 1 - 3 needed drug abuse counselling. Student proportion of 85.1%, 5.5% and 2% in JSS classes and student proportion of 29.3%, 3.1% and 0.5% in SSS classes required mild, intensive and severe counselling respectively. Two months after drug abuse counselling of the students, urine immune-assay device detected none of the 12 drug-abuse substances in the urine of all students screened. Conclusion: Educational intervention and policies should be designed to prevent substance dependence among secondary school students using immunoassay techniques. Large scale urine screening using immunoassay technique is advised.
In silico Antiplasmodial and Anti-inflammatory Activities of Compounds derived from Anogeissus leiocarpus
Background: Over expression of inflammatory cytokines causes severity of malaria, and due to report of drug resistant strains of Plasmodium species, new and effective antimalarial drugs with anti-inflammatory properties are desirable. Materials and Methods: The compounds present in acetone leaf and stem bark extracts of Anogeissus leiocarpus were identified by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis and assessed for their potentials as antimalarial and anti-inflammatory agents, using in silico methods. The compounds identified were docked against Plasmodium falciparum dihydrofolate reductase (PfDHFR), enoyl acyl carrier protein reductase (PfENR) and hexose transporter 1 (PfHT1), using SwissDock online server and the binding interactions were assessed with Ligplot+ tool. Using the same approach, these compounds were also docked against human inflammatory cytokines; interferon gamma (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-12 (IL-12). The ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, toxicity) profiles and drug-like properties of the promising compounds were investigated using admetSAR. Ten and twenty-one compounds were mined from stem bark and leaf, respectively. Results: From the molecular docking studies, the lead compounds identified to possess both antiplasmodial and anti-inflammatory effects are oleic acid; cyclopropaneoctanal, 2-octyl-; octadec-9-enoic acid; n-Hexadecanoic acid; tetradecanoic acid; N-Glycylglycine; phytol, acetate; phytol and 9,12-Octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z)- with binding energies ranging from -9.60 to -7.27 Kcal/mol. These compounds bind by hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions to key amino acid residues of the targets. The compounds also showed acceptable ADMET profiles and are predicted to be drug-like. Conclusion: In- silico analysis of Anogeissus leiocarpus confirms the presence of bioactive anti-plasmodial and anti-inflammatory agents with safe ADMET profile. However, further investigation may be needful for confirmation of these beneficial effects.
Evaluation of Serum C-Reactive Protein Level, Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate and CD4+ Cell Count in Predicting Tuberculosis Disease Progression in Patients with HIV Co-Infection
Background: The challenges of managing tuberculosis in resource poor countries, especially when there is co-infection with Human Immunodeficiency virus (TB/HIV), are enormous. Serum C-reactive protein (CRP) level, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and CD4+ T-cell counts were determined in this study as predictive biomarkers of severe TB infection with and without HIV infection in Uyo, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: One hundred and seventy sputum-producing patients aged 15 to 60 years, suspected of active tuberculosis were tested for TB and HIV using standard methods. Apparently healthy blood donors were recruited as control. Serum CRP levels and CD4+ T cell counts were estimated using sandwich-enzyme linked immunosorbent assay and flow cytometry, respectively. ESR was estimated using the conventional Westergreen method. Results: The mean CRP levels and ESR were significantly higher in patients with TB/HIV co-infection compared with patients with TB infection only and controls. In contrast, the mean CD4+ cell count was significantly lower in patients with TB/HIV co-infection compared with patients with TB infection only. The CD4+ cell count had significant inverse correlation with CRP and ESR. The sensitivity and positive predictive values of CRP and CD4+ cell count in predicting disease progression were higher in patients with TB/HIV co-infection compared with patients with TB infection only. Conclusion: Serum CRP levels alone or its combination with ESR and/or CD4+ T cell count could be promising predictors of TB disease progression especially, in patients with TB/HIV co-infection.
Indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase gene expression levels in response to chronic hepatitis B virus infection in Zaria, Nigeria
Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is one of the aetiological factors for hepatocellular carcinoma. HBV is hyper-endemic in Nigeria with different viral genotypes. In the chronic phase of infection, T-cells respond weakly thereby promoting viral persistence. This response could be attributable to either the infecting HBV genotype or immune tolerance induction by indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase (IDO). This study therefore, aimed at assessing IDO gene expression by mononuclear cells in individuals infected by different genotypes of HBV in Zaria, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A total of 20 chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients with identified HBV genotypes and 20 healthy controls were enrolled into this study. Venous blood was collected in EDTA-container from each of the participants and IDO gene expression was determined by RT-qPCR. Data were analysed using GraphPad prism 6. Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis were used to determine differences between two or more groups, respectively. Statistical significance was set at p≤0.05. Results: This study showed significant up-regulation of IDO-1 and IDO-2 gene expressions by the mononuclear cells of those with CHB. There was a significant up-regulation of IDO-1 gene in patients with HBV/A as compared with healthy control group and in those with single HBV genotype infection as against the healthy control group. Conclusion: Chronic hepatitis B infection is associated with up-regulation of IDO expression which could be responsible for stalling lymphocytes proliferation.
Elucidating the Immune Responses to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) Infection: Drivers of Recovery and Discovery
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is one of the three novel betacoronaviruses (SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2) which have demonstrated significant outbreaks and high case-fatality rates in humans in the last two decades. Although the systemic landscape of the immune responses to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) keeps emerging, reports continue to show that dysregulated immune response is an important driver of COVID-19 pathogenesis as pathological disparities (mild vs severe vs critical) usually result from differences in the immune response to the virus. It is therefore apparent that the importance of an in-depth knowledge of immune response to SARS-CoV-2 in deciphering the protective and detrimental components of the immune response and giving insights into the immunological goldmines that are essential for immunotherapeutic purposes, cannot be over-emphasized and is thus, succinctly discussed in this review.
Copyright (c) 2022 The Nigerian Journal of Immunology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
State of the Nigerian Society for Immunology
In utero anti-HBsAg IgG Antibody Transmission from Mother to Foetus is Associated with Protection against Hepatitis B Infection in New-born Babies in Bénin Republic
Background: Hepatitis B is an infectious disease caused by hepatitis B virus (HBV). The virus targets hepatocytes and induce inflammation. Poor management of hepatitis B infection can lead to chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis or even, hepatocellular carcinoma. Unfortunately, HBV can be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy. In addition, when mothers are immunized, they can passively transfer their immunity to their foetus during pregnancy. The levels of anti-hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) IgG antibody transferred by mothers to their new-born babies before any vaccination were therefore, determined in this study. Materials and Methods: Sixty six (66) pregnant women from a cohort at Cotonou (n = 54) and at Porto-Novo (n = 12) (Bénin Republic) were enrolled into this study. After obtaining written informed consent, 5 mL of venous blood samples were collected from the mothers and their new-born babies (n = 67) at delivery before any vaccination. Thereafter, IgG levels against Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) were measured in the sera of the study participants using Enzyme-Linked Fluorescence Assay. Results: Over 60% of the mothers and 55.22% of the new-born babies have more than 10 mIU/mL of anti-HBsAg specific IgG antibodies. Seven new-born babies were not immunized whereas their mothers were immunized. None of the mothers and the new-born babies was hepatitis B positive. Conclusion: Mother-to-child passive acquisition of anti-HBsAg specific IgG antibodies could be associated with protection of new-born babies against hepatitis B infection. Evaluation of anti-HBsAg specific IgG antibodies in new-born babies is therefore suggested to guide vaccination.