RP-Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology

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105 - Biocontrol of the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita in Kenyan tomato varieties using habitat-adapted endophytes
(Deutsche Pflanzenschutztagung, 2014-09) Schouten, Alexander; Grundler, Florian M. W.; Kuska, Matheus; Kariuki, George M.; Bogner, Catherine Wanja
Plant parasitic nematodes, especially root-knot nematodes, pose a major threat to the increasingly important tomato production in the coastal humid tropics of East Africa. Tomato endophytes collected from Kenya were identified and screened for their biocontrol activities in the tomato cultivar moneymaker, various local Kenyan varieties and AVRDC accessions. In particular, Trichoderma and Fusarium oxysporum isolates could significantly reduce root-knot nematode egg densities when compared to the non-inoculated control. Split-root experiments and synchronized infection studies have shown that the fungus initiates certain systemic plant defense responses that affect both penetration and overall development of the nematode. In order to gain a deeper understanding of the induced defense responses leading to this reduction in nematode infection, specific tomato mutants that are impaired in particular defense pathways are analyzed with respect to root-knot nematode colonization in the presence and absence of the beneficial endophytes. At the same time, the expression of several marker genes and the activity of certain enzymes, all involved in the various induced defense responses, are being monitored. In addition, the effects of fungal metabolites on M. incognita and the initiation of defense responses is being studied. The use of habitat-adapted endophytic fungi may provide a safe, efficient, reliable and affordable approach to control root-knot nematodes.
16S rRNA Gene Profiling of Bacterial Communities Mediating Production of Tsetse Attractive Phenols in Mammalian Urine
(OASIS, 2019) Musonye, Harry; Njeru, Ezekiel; Hassanali, Ahmed; Langata, Lydia; Mijele, Dominic; Kaitho, Titus; King’ori, Edward; Nonoh, James
Several types of odours are involved in the location of host animals by tsetse (Diptera: Glossinidae), a vector of animal African trypanosomiasis. Host animals' ageing urine has been shown to be the source of a phenolic blend attractive to the tsetse. Nevertheless, limited research has been performed on the microbial communities' role in the production of phenols. This study aimed at profiling bacterial communities mediating the production of tsetse attractive phenols in mammalian urine. Urine samples were collected from African buffalo (Syncerus caffer), cattle (Bos taurus) and eland (Taurotragus oryx) at Kongoni Game Valley Ranch and Kenyatta University in Kenya. Urine samples, of each animal species, were pooled and left open to age in ambient conditions. Bacteriological and phenols analyses were then carried out, at 4 days ageing intervals, for 24 days. Phenols analysis revealed nine volatile phenols: 4-cresol, ortho-cresol, 3-cresol, phenol, 3-ethylphenol, 3-propylphenol, 2-methyloxyphenol, 4-ethylphenol and 4-propylphenol. Eight out of 19 bacterial isolates from the ageing urine revealed the potential to mediate production of phenols. 16S rRNA gene characterisation of the isolates closely resembled Enterococcus faecalis KUB3006, Psychrobacter alimentarius PAMC 27887, Streptococcus agalactiae 2603V, Morganella morganii sub.sp. morganii KT, Micrococcus luteus NCTC2665, Planococcus massiliensis strain ES2, Ochrobactrum pituitosum AA2 and Enterococcus faecalis OGIRF. This study established that some of the phenols emitted from mammalian urine, which influence the tsetse's host-seeking behaviour, are well characterised by certain bacteria. These results may allow the development of biotechnological models in vector control that combines the use of these bacteria in the controlled release of semiochemicals.
Absence of Molecular Evidence of Filovirus Circulating In Bats and Rodents in Laikipia North Sub-County, Kenya: A Cross Sectional Study
(https://www.one-health.panafrican-med-journal.com/content/article/7/34, 2022) Ambala, Peris; Hussein, Fatima; Mutura, Samson; Gachara, George; Menza, Nelson; Shields, Lindsey Mccrickard; Vodzak, Megan; Murray, Susan; Valitutto, Marc; Zimmerman, Dawn; Kamau, Joseph
In the recent decade, pathogenic zoonotic viruses have emerged in different geographical locations almost annually. These changes have led to new complex interactions between humans, animals and the environment, creating unique opportunities for pathogens unique opportunities to pass between hosts. Most emerging pathogens are RNA viruses such as filovirus. Numerous factors such as anthropogenic activities, changes in local ecosystem and climate change have contributed to this spillover. While Kenya has not reported any filovirus outbreaks in humans, a filovirus (i.e Bombali Ebola virus) have been detected in Kenyan bats, which have been implicated as reservoir hosts. The goal of this study was to detect and molecularly characterize known and novel filovirus circulating in bats and rodents in Laikipia North sub-County, Laikipia County, Kenya. In May 2018, a total of 477 samples (blood, oral and rectal swabs) were collected from 159 bats and 159 rodents in Laikipia North sub-County, Kenya. Ribonucleic acid was extracted from all samples and screened using consensus polymerase chain reaction targeting the long-gene of filovirus. All samples were negative. These results suggest that circulation of filovirus was uncommon during the month of May, 2018 in rodents and bats from Laikipia North sub-County. Considering our findings, future sampling should be conducted both longitudinally and with significantly larger sample sizes for a more in depth assessment of the prevalence of filoviruses in bats within the region studied.
Abundance and Symbiotic Potential of Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) Nodule Associated Bacteria in Western Kenya Soil
(MAYFEB, 2016) Wekesa, C.; Okun, D.; Juma, K.; Shitabule, D.; Okoth, P.; Nyongesa, P.; Katoo, A.; Mulama, S.; Wamalwa, E.; Mahalo, C.; Koyo, M.; Rotich, A.; Kawaka, F.; Muoma, J.
Plant growth-promoting Rhizobacteria are beneficial native soil bacteria that colonize plant roots and result in increased plant growth. Those that colonise the nodules of legumes are known as nodule associated bacteria. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of chemical soil factors on the abundance of nodule associated bacteria and the symbiotic efficiency of these bacteria when coinoculated with Phaseolus vulgaris in Western Kenya soils. The soil samples were collected from cultivated lands in Kisumu near Lake Victoria, slopes of Mt. Elgon and Kakamega. In each of these regions, the soil samples were collected from four regions. 1ml of soil solution at 10 fold dilution for seven dilution steps (10-1to 10-7) and three replications for each dilution was used to inoculate common bean seedling in the Leonard jars. They were harvested after four weeks to determine abundance of nodule associated bacteria using most probable number plant infection method. Mt. Elgon region had the highest population of nodule associated bacteria (120000 cells per gram of the soil), followed by Kisumu (1290 cells per gram of the soil) and Kakamega region had the lowest (17 cells per gram of the soil). The effect of plant growth-promoting Rhizobacteria on the yield of common beans was significantly higher (p < o.oo1) when co-inoculated with Rhizobia compared to the yield of Rhizobia inoculated alone or negative control (not inoculated) (p < 0.05). This study therefore provides knowledge on the factors that favour the survival of common bean symbiotic bacteria and their symbiotic capability which is necessary for production of plant growth-promoting Rhizobacteria inoculants suitable to the soils of Western Kenya
Acute and Sub-Chronic Oral Toxicity Study of Methanolic Extract of Caesalpinia volkensii (Harms)
(OMICS International, 2017) Musila, Michael N.; Ngai, David N.; Mbiri, Jane W.; Njagi, Shardrack M.; Mbinda, Wilton M.; Ngugi, Mathew P.
Medicinal plant Caesalpinia volkensii is used to treat Malaria, conjunctivitis, retinoblastoma, and eyelid swelling as well as gonorrhoea and bilharzia. Animal toxicity information on this plant is limited. This medicinal plant was collected in Embu County in Kenya to evaluate its Acute and sub-chronic toxicity using Wistar rats. The rats were orally administered with different doses of the plants extracts. They were weighed on first day and after every 7 days during treatment with the extract. Signs of toxicity were also observed. After 28 days, the rats were sacrificed and blood samples taken for full hemogram, renal and liver function tests. Weight of internal organs was also recorded. Data was analysed using Minitab statistical software version 17. In acute toxicity studies, C. volkensii extracts did not result to death at extract dose of 2000 mg/kg body weight. In sub-chronic toxicity studies, there was no significance difference in body weight and organ weight among the groups treated with the plant extract (p>0.05). Treatment with extract dose of 1000 mg/kg body weight resulted in significant increase in total bilirubin and aspartate aminotransferase (P˂0.05). In addition, 100 mg/kg body weight resulted in significant decrease in haemoglobin and haematocrit. Qualitative phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of various phytochemicals which have the ability to protect erythrocytes from oxidative damage as well as erythropoietin stimulatory activities. It was therefore concluded that methanolic leaf extract of C. volkensii is safe for acute oral administration. However, care should be exercised in sub-chronic exposure at 1000 mg/kg body weight and above to avoid liver injury.
Acute Oral Toxicity, Cognitive-Enhancing and Anti-Lipid Peroxidation Efficacy, and Qualitative Phytochemistry of the Aqueous Aerial Part Extract of Launaea Cornuta (Hochst. Ex. Oliv. &Hiern) C. Jeffrey
(Cell Press, 2023-04-12) Maina, Mercy; Mbaria, James; Kamanja, Irene; Morias, Gervason
At present, there is no cure for dementia or its related cognitive impairments. Available treatments only provide symptomatic relief and do not alter the disease’s progression and they suffer serious drawbacks limiting their clinical use, hence the need for alternative therapies. Although Launaea cornuta has been used traditionally to treat cognitive deficits, its pharmacological efficacy and safety have not been empirically validated, prompting this study. Acute oral toxicity of the extract was examined in Swiss albino mice using the up-and-down procedure described by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development guideline number 425. The Morris water maze technique was adopted in assessing cognitive-enhancing effects of the extract in ketamine-induced cognitive-impaired mice. The malondialdehyde concentrations in the whole brain of experimental mice involved in the MWM experiment were measured to determine the extract’s anti-lipid peroxidation efficacy. Qualitative phytochemical screening of the extract was performed using standard procedures. Our results showed that the test extract was safe and did not cause any clinical signs of acute oral toxicity in mice at all doses (LD50 > 2000 mg/kg BW). Moreover, the extract significantly improved cognitive function in ketamine-induced cognitiveimpaired mice in a dose-dependent manner, as indicated by reduced escape latency, navigation distance, and longer latency in the target quadrant during the probe trial. The extract also significantly reduced malondialdehyde concentrations in mice in a dose-dependent manner, demonstrating its antioxidative stress efficacy. The studied extract contained various phytochemicals associated with cognitive enhancement and antioxidant efficacy, among other pharmacologic effects. Further empirical studies are needed to determine and characterise the extract’s specific cognitive-enhancing compounds, specific mechanisms of action, and complete toxicity profiles.
Adding Injury To Infection: The Relationship Between Injury Status And Genetic Diversity Of Theileria Infecting Plains Zebra, Equus Quagga
(Elsevier, 2018) King'ori, Edward M; Obanda, Vincent; Ndambiri, Ephantus M; Runo, Steven M; Chiyo, Patrick I
Asymptomatic tick-borne infections are a common feature in wild herbivores. In human-dominated habitats, snare injuries to wild herbivores are common and are likely to co-occur with enzootic infections. The influence of injury on pattern, course and outcome of enzootic infection in wild herbivores is unknown. We identified Theileria species infecting zebra and assessed the relationship between host injury-status and parasitaemia, parasite diversity and selection regimes. We also determined host leucocyte differential as this can reveal mechanisms by which injuries influence infections. Theileria infecting zebra was identified using PCR and sequencing of the V4 region of the 18 s rRNA gene and confirmed with phylogenetic analyses. The influence of injury status on parasite infection patterns, genetic diversity and selection were assessed using population genetic tools. Parasitaemia estimated from prevalence and leucocyte differential were determined from microscopic examination of Giemsa stained thin blood smears. Phylogenetic and sequence analyses revealed that the zebra population studied was infected with three Theileria equi haplotypes. Parasitaemia was lower among injured compared to non-injured animals and lower during dry than wet season. Mean (±SD) genetic diversity was 0.386 (±0.128) in injured and 0.513 (±0.144) in non-injured zebra (P = .549). Neutrality tests indicated that T. equi is under strong purifying selection in injured females (Li & Fu's D* = -2.037) and demographic expansion in all zebra during the wet season (Tajima D = -1.904). Injured zebras had a higher median per cent of neutrophils (64% vs 37%) a lower median per cent of basophils (0% vs 1%) and eosinophils (2% vs 4.5%) than non-injured animals, suggesting a heightened immune response and a shift from a Th2 to Th1 T-Cell response favoring the elimination of intracellular parasites in injured animals. This study demonstrates the utility of population genetics in revealing factors influencing parasite diversity and infection patterns. Keywords: Asymptomatic infection; Immunity Theileria; Kenya; Leucocyte-differential; Snares; Wound; Zebra.
Adiponectin Secretion in HIV-Infected Subjects with or without Antiretroviral Treatment and Illicit Substance use: Clinical Review and Update
(2016) Kiboi, N.G.; Karanja, Joseph K.; Nebere, Saraphine N.
Adiponectin (Acrp30) is a novel polypeptide classified among adipokines that are chiefly secreted by adipocytes within adipose tissue. Besides the adipose tissue, levels of the adipocytokine also circulate in human plasma. Functionally, Acrp30 possesses a primary role in regulation of body fat stores with its anti-inflammatory, glucose and lipid metabolism and weight loss effects. Thus, circulating Acrp30 levels govern obesity and metabolic abnormalities including; dyslipidaemia, cardiovascular disorders and renal disease. A lipodystrophic syndrome including metabolic derangements are common features presenting in HIV-infected patients on antiretroviral therapy (ART). Decreased Acrp30 levels have been documented in lipodystrophic patients as a consequence of adverse effects attributable to various antiretroviral agents. Interestingly, Acrp30 levels are revealed to be suppressed in HIV-infected patients relative to healthy persons even prior to HAART commencement, indicative of HIV infection itself playing a role in Acrp30 dysregulation. On the contrary, circulating Acrp30 levels inversely correlate with body fat composition in healthy non-obese individuals. Thus, lowered Acrp30 concentrations are associated with weight accumulation in obese subjects. More importantly, illicit drug and substance use has been revealed to accelerate HIV disease progression while also impairing Acrp30 production within the adipose tissue. Consequently, these observations collectively portray Acrp30 as a metabolic correlate of adipose tissue inflammation and low fat store during episodes of HIV infection, lypodystrophyic syndrome and illicit substance use. Therapeutic interventions should identify new approaches to restore Acrp30 production and supply during the aforementioned events. Keywords: Adiponectin; Adipokines; Inflammation; Obesity; Metabolic abnormalities; Substance use; Lypodystrophy
Adoption of Banana Tissue culture and Nutrient Enhancement Technologies to curb the HIV-Poverty- Malnutrition cycle Among People Living With HIV and AIDS (PLWHAs) in the Lake Victoria Basin
(2011) Mwangi, M.N.; Muyonga, J.; Wamue-Ngare, G.N.; Ng'ang'a, Z.W.; Manyama, A.
Aggravation of pathogenesis mediated by ochratoxin A in mice infected with Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense
(Parasitology, 2009-01) Makumi, J. N.; Ngeranwa, J.J.N.; Kibugu, J K; Gathumbi, J K; Kagira, J M; Mwangi, J N; Muchiri, M W; Mdachi, R E
Mice fed 1.5 mg ochratoxin A (OTA) per kg body weight and infected with Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense were compared with trypanosome-infected placebo-fed and uninfected OTA-fed controls. Uninfected OTA-fed mice showed fever, lethargy, facial and eyelid oedemas, mild hepatitis and nephritis, and high survival. Infected placebo-fed controls had mean pre-patent period (PPP) of 3.26 days, lethargy, dyspnoea, fever, facial and scrotal oedema, survival of 33-65 days, reduced red cell counts (RCC: 10.96-6.87x106 cells/microl of blood), packed cell volume (PCV: 43.19-26.36%), haemoglobin levels (Hb: 13.37-7.92 g/dL) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) of 37.96-41.31 fL, hepatosplenomegaly, generalized oedemas, heart congestion, hepatitis and nephritis. Compared to infected placebo-fed controls, infected OTA-fed mice had significantly (P<0.05) shorter mean PPP (2.58 days), reduced survival (6-47 days), more pronounced fever and dyspnoea. The latter had significantly (P<0.05) reduced RCC (10.74-4.56x106 cells/microl of blood), PCV (43.90-20.78%), Hb (13.06-5.74 g/dL), increased MCV (39.10-43.97 fL), severe generalized oedemas, haemorrhages, congestion, hepatic haemosiderosis, hepatitis, nephritis, endocarditis, pericarditis and exclusively, splenic macrophage and giant cell hyperplasia, expanded red pulp and splenic erythrophagocytosis. It was concluded that OTA aggravated the pathogenesis of T. b. rhodesiense infection in mice, and should therefore be taken into consideration during trypanosomosis control programmes.
Agricultural genomics and sustainable development: perspectives and prospects for Africa
(Academic Journals, 2004-02) Machuka, Jesse
The genomes of various organisms have now been fully sequenced, including human and representative microbial, insect, animal and plant genomes. The research challenge in the post-genome era is to establish how genes and proteins function to bring about changes in phenotype. Some of these phenotypes, and products obtainable through modern biotechnology, are of crucial importance within the context of sustainable development of African economies. The greatest ultimate impact will be in agricultural genomics, especially for marker assisted selection and breeding programs in crop and animal agriculture, development of animal disease diagnostics and vaccines, crop genetic engineering to overcome abiotic and biotic stresses and for improvement of the nutritional quality of major food staples. It is imperative that African countries become key players in the “gene revolution” since the cost of leaving them behind may be higher than the cost of empowering them to become players in mastering and benefiting from biotechnology. This paper highlights the potential impact of the latest advances in modern biotechnology, including genomics and bioinformatics, on sustainable development, in line with the goals of the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD). These include acceleration of economic growth, eradication of widespread and severe poverty and efforts to halt the marginalization of Africa in the globalization process.
Agrobacterium Mediated Transformation of Selected Maize Inbred Lines with pPZP200 towards Enhancement of Lysine and Methionine Content
(IISTE, 2015) Gacheri, P.; Machuka, J.; Ombori, O.; Bukachi, B.
Maize (Zea mays (L.) is one of the most important cereals used both for human and animal consumption in the world. Despite its importance, maize is not a suitable single source of nutrition because it does not provide the essential amino acids lysine and methionine in sufficient quantities to meet the nutritional needs of humans and other animals. Lysine is a necessary building block for protein in the body while methionine is the body’s primary source of sulphur. Strategies to improve the nutritional quality of maize for high lysine and methionine have involved both genetic engineering (GE) and non-genetic engineering approaches such as marker assisted selection. Breeding is however laborious, lengthy and carries along undesired alleles. The objective of this work was to manipulate maize inbred lines towards enhancement of lysine and methionine content in the endosperms through Agrobacterium mediated transformation. Maize kernels mainly store proteins as α, β, γ and δ zeins. The immature embryos of three tropical maize inbred lines (TL18, CML216 and CML144) and a temperate line (A188) were transformed using Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain EHA101 carrying an expression cassette designed to up-regulate the Z10 protein for methionine enhancement as well as down-regulate the α zein storage protein by RNAi. The T-DNA also contained P-zp22/6 as the promoter and the phosphinothricin acetyltransfarase gene (bar) used for selection of transformed tissue. Putative transformants were tested for presence of the transgene by PCR designed to amplify the P-zp22/6 promoter sequence. Calli survival frequencies were calculated as a percentage number of surviving calli in relation to the total number of embryos infected. These ranged from 2.89 % for TL18 to 9.11 % for A188. This data did not detect any significant difference (p>0.05) among the genotypes on the percentage of calli which survived. Transformation efficiency was calculated as a percentage of the number of PCR positive plants divided by the total number of embryos infected. This ranged from 0% for TL18 to 1.83% for A188. The data suggest the possibility of manipulating storage proteins and regenerating normal transgenic maize with normal kernels. Further work should involve gene expression assays for accumulation of β, γ and δ prolamins in the kernels and southern blot analysis to confirm stable integration and the copy numbers of P-zp22/6 gene in the PCR positive plants
Agrobiodiversity and Perceived Climatic Change Effect on Family Farming Systems in Semiarid Tropics of Kenya
(De Gruyter, 2022) Njeru, Ezekiel Mugendi; Awino, Richard Otieno; Kirui, Kibet Charles; Koech, Kipkorir; Jalloh, Abdul Alhaji; Muthini, Morris
The steady decline in agrobiodiversity is not only a significant threat to the genetic stability of the rural agroecosystems but also places a huge impediment to the realization of global food security. Climate change and decline in arable land is forcing subsistence farmers to abandon the less productive but well-adapted local crops for the newer short term and drought-tolerant crops decimating agrobiodiversity further. This study sought to establish the on-farm species and genetic diversity status among the family farming systems of semiarid areas of Eastern Kenya and effect on food security, agrobiodiversity management strategies, their perception of climate change, and climate change coping strategies. Structured questionnaires were administered to 92 active farmers in Embu, Kitui, and Tharaka Nithi Counties of Eastern Kenya. On-farm diversity, socio-economic factors, and their impact on agrobiodiversity were determined. Possible correlations were established using Spearman’s Rank Correlation Coefficient. Remarkably, 26 crop species were recorded where legumes and cereals were dominant. According to the Shannon–Wiener Diversity index (H′), Tharaka Nithi County recorded the highest legumes and cereals diversity indices of 3.436 and 3.449, respectively. Food shortage was reported by over 50% of the respondents in the study area. The existence of weaker adaptive measures in response to climate change was evident. Family farming systems that had higher crop diversification and integrated livestock rearing in their farms were more food secure. Improved mitigation to climate change and diversification of farming systems among the smallholder farms is essential not only in boosting the food security but also in establishment of sustainable farming systems resilient to climate change
Amino acid sequence analysis and identification of mutations in the NS gene of 2009 influenza A (H1N1) isolates from Kenya.
(Virus Genes, 2011-05) Gachara, George; Symekher, Samuel; Mbithi, J. N.; Simwa, James; Ng'ayo, Musa; Magana, Japheth; Bulimo, Wallace D.
Although the important role of the nonstructural (NS) gene of influenza A virus in virulence and replication is well-established, the knowledge about the extent of variation in the NS gene of 2009 influenza A (H1N1) viruses in Kenya and Africa is scanty. This study analysed the NS gene of 31 isolates from Kenya in order to obtain a more detailed knowledge about the genetic variation of NS gene of 2009 influenza A (H1N1) isolates from Kenya. A comparison with the vaccine strain and viruses isolated elsewhere in Africa was also made. The amino acid sequences of the non-structural protein, NS1 of the viruses from this study and the vaccine strain revealed 18 differences. Conversely, the nuclear export protein (NEP) of the isolates in this study had 11 differences from the vaccine strain. Analysis of the NS1 protein showed only one fixed amino acid change I123V which is one of the characteristics of clade 7 viruses. In the NEP, the amino acid at position 77 was the most mutable with 9 (39%) of all mutations seen in this protein. A mutation A115T which is a characteristic of clade 5 viruses was noted in the isolates from Lagos, Nigeria. The study shows a substantial number of mutations in the NS gene that has not been reported elsewhere and gives a glimpse of the evolution of this gene in the region.
Amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) analysis of genetic variation in Moringa oleifera Lam
(Blackwell Science Ltd, 1999) Muluvi, G. M.; Sprent, J. I.; Soranzo, N.; Provan, J.; Odee, David W.; Folkard, G.; Mcnicoli, J.W.; Powell, W.
Analgesic Activity of Dichloromethanolic Root Extract of Clutia abyssinica in Swiss Albino Mice
(Longdom, 2017) Koech, S.C; Ouko, R.O; Michael, N.M; Ireri, M.M; Ngugi, M.P; Njagi, N.M
Pain as a sensory modality, represent a symptom for diagnosing various diseases and its associated conditions. Although it acts as a sensory modality in drawing attention to tissue injury, it is associated with poor quality of life and socioeconomic burden to the victim. Conventional synthetic drugs that are used to manage pain are not readily available and are associated with adverse effects. Thus, the use of herbal medicine from medicinal plants is an age old practice used by many communities to cure diseases. These medicinal plants are known to contain phytochemical compounds capable of relieving pain and healing diseases. C. abyssinica has been used traditionally by the Kallenjin community to alleviate various diseases. However, an extensive search of the literature reveals that no data has been documented about the medicinal use of the plant in suppressing pain. The present study thus, evaluated on analgesic potential of dichloromethanolic root extract of C. abyssinica in animal models. Thirty Swiss albino mice were grouped into six groups of five animal each; normal control, negative control, positive control and three experimental groups. The experimental animals were administered with the extract intraperitoneally at dose level of 50, 100 and 150 mg/ kg body weight. Acetic acid-induced pain was used to determine the analgesic activity of the extract. Diclofenac was used as a reference drug. The dichloromethanolic root extract reduced the number of abdominal writhing’s between 33.95% and 49.77% while the reference drug reduced the number of abdominal writhing’s by 46.51%. A number of phytochemical compounds associated with analgesic activity were observed to be present. The study therefore scientifically confirmed the traditional use of the medicinal plant in management of pain.
Analgesic Potential of Acetone Leaf Extract of Caesalpinia volkensii Harms in Mice
(OMICS International, 2015) Mworia, J.K.; Gitahi, S.M.; Juma, K.K.; Njagi, J.M.; Mwangi, B.M.; Aliyu, U.; Njoroge, W.A.; Mwonjoria, K.J.; Nyamai, D.W.; Ngugi, M.P.; Ngeranwa, J.J.N.
Pain is defined as unpleasant feeling essential for body’s defense system. It acts as a warning signal against disturbances in the body. Conventional antinociceptives are expensive and have many side effects. Continued use of these drugs may lead to tolerance and resistance. Medicinal plants have been used to relieve pain and form a better alternative. Herbal antinociceptives are affordable and have arguably fewer side effects. Caesalpinia volkensii (Harms) has pharmacological activities that include antimicrobial, immune modulatory properties and antimalarial. It is used locally by people in Embu County as analgesics. This study was designed to bioscreen the acetone leaf extracts of C. volkensii (Harms) for antinociceptive effects in mice.. The plant parts were collected from Mbeere north sub-county, Embu County, Kenya. The samples were prepared and extraction of the active compounds carried out using acetone. Swiss albino mice were divided into five groups of five mice each: Normal, negative, reference and experimental group. Pain was induced experimentally using formalin and acetic acid. The experimental groups were treated with 50 and 100 mg/kg dose ranges of the plant extract. Mice were injected intraperitoneally with doses of the herbs, diclofenac and the vehicle. Thirty minutes later the animals were injected with 0.01ml of 2.5 % formalin in the sub planter region of the left hind paw and the other set with 0.4ml of 5% acetic acid. The total time spent lifting; biting, licking the paw and writhing were counted and scored. The acetone leaves extracts tested at different dose levels lowered paw licking time in a dose dependant manner, Further, the phytochemical screening results showed that the acetone leaves extracts of C. volkensii (Harms) have phytochemicals associated with antinociceptive activities. The study has established that the acetone leaves extract of C.volkensii (Harms) is effective in management of pain.
Analgesic Potential of Dichloromethane Leaf Extracts of Eucalyptus Globulus (Labill) and Senna Didymobotrya (Fresenius) in Mice Models
(Journal of Herbmed Pharmacology, 2020) Mworia, Joseph Kiambi; Kibiti, Cromwell Mwiti; Ngeranwa, Joseph JN; Ngugi, Mathew Piero
Introduction: Pain is managed using conventional drugs like paracetamol, aspirin and diclofenac among others. Synthetic drugs have many side effects. This study aimed at evaluating the analgesic potential of the dichloromethane leaf extracts of Eucalyptus globulus and Senna didymobotrya in mice. Methods: The dichloromethane leaf extracts of E. globulus and S. didymobotrya were subjected to quantitative phytochemical analysis using gas chromatography-mass spectrophotometry (GC-MS). In vivo analgesic evaluation comprised of nine groups of animals (Swiss albino mice): normal, positive, negative control and six experimental groups that received 25, 50, 100, 150, 200 and 250 mg/kg body weight of each plant extract intraperitoneally. Thirty minutes later, they were injected with 0.01 mL of 2.5% formalin. The animals in positive control group were administered diclofenac (15 mg/kg) and formalin, the normal control mice received 3% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) in normal saline, while the negative group received DMSO in normal saline and formalin. All the doses were administered intraperitoneally. The duration of shaking and licking of the injected paw was scored and analyzed. Results: The analysis revealed that E. globulus contained alpha-pinenes, endo-fenchol, α-eudesmol, myrcene, camphene, alpha-phellandrene, limonene, and camphor while S. dymobotrya possessed camphene, alpha-phellandrene, limonene, and camphor. In the late phase, E. globulus at the doses of 25, 50, 100, 150, 200 and 250 mg/kg reduced the paw licking time by 34.03%, 60.79%, 84.33 %, 90.65%, 94.49%, 98.52%, respectively while S. didymobotrya extract reduced the paw licking time by 26.48%, 32.96%, 87.04%, 91.27%, 93.40%, 90.97%, and 96.82%, respectively. Conclusion: The results of this study validate and support the traditional uses of these plants as analgesics.
Analgesic potential of dichloromethane leaf extracts of Eucalyptus globulus (Labill) and Senna didymobotrya (Fresenius) in mice models
(Journal of Herbmed Pharmacology, 2020) Mworia, Joseph Kiambi; Kibiti, Cromwell Mwiti; Ngeranwa, Joseph JN; Ngugi, Mathew Piero
Introduction: Pain is managed using conventional drugs like paracetamol, aspirin and diclofenac among others. Synthetic drugs have many side effects. This study aimed at evaluating the analgesic potential of the dichloromethane leaf extracts of Eucalyptus globulus and Senna didymobotrya in mice.Methods: The dichloromethane leaf extracts of E. globulus and S. didymobotrya were subjected to quantitative phytochemical analysis using gas chromatography-mass spectrophotometry (GC-MS). In vivo analgesic evaluation comprised of nine groups of animals (Swiss albino mice): normal, positive, negative control and six experimental groups that received 25, 50, 100, 150, 200 and 250 mg/kg body weight of each plant extract intraperitoneally. Thirty minutes later, they were injected with 0.01 mL of 2.5% formalin. The animals in positive control group were administered diclofenac (15 mg/kg) and formalin, the normal control mice received 3% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) in normal saline, while the negative group received DMSO in normal saline and formalin. All the doses were administered intraperitoneally. The duration of shaking and licking of the injected paw was scored and analyzed.Results: The analysis revealed that E. globulus contained alpha-pinenes, endo-fenchol, α-eudesmol, myrcene, camphene, alpha-phellandrene, limonene, and camphor while S. dymobotrya possessed camphene, alpha-phellandrene, limonene, and camphor. In the late phase, E. globulus at the doses of 25, 50, 100, 150, 200 and 250 mg/kg reduced the paw licking time by 34.03%, 60.79%, 84.33 %, 90.65%, 94.49%, 98.52%, respectively while S. didymobotrya extract reduced the paw licking time by 26.48%, 32.96%, 87.04%, 91.27%, 93.40%, 90.97%, and 96.82%, respectively.Conclusion: The results of this study validate and support the traditional uses of these plants as analgesics.
Analysing the Interplay of Environmental Virology, Public Health, and Sanitation: A Comprehensive Review from a Kenyan Perspective
(Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology, 2023-10) Opere, Michael Wasonga
This comprehensive review examines the interplay between environmental virology, public health, and sanitation in the unique context of Kenya. The review sheds light on the specific viral threats faced by the country, including waterborne viruses, zoonotic infections, and emerging viral diseases, and their implications for public health. It explores the prevailing public health challenges in Kenya associated with environmental viromics, such as infectious viral diseases, and the rising burden of other infectious particles. The role of sanitation in mitigating viral infections is highlighted, emphasising the importance of clean water supply, proper waste management, and hygienic practises. The review also presents strategies for strengthening environmental virology research in Kenya, including enhancing laboratory capacities and leveraging technological advancements. Furthermore, the policy implications and recommendations derived from the review emphasise the need for multisectoral collaboration, evidence-based decision-making, and long-term investments in infrastructure and behaviour change interventions. Implementing these strategies can enhance the understanding of environmental virology, improve public health outcomes, and ensure sustainable sanitation practises in Kenya, ultimately contributing to the wellbeing of the population and sustainable development.

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