Asian Journal of Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Assessment of the Frequency and Clinical-pathogenetic Significance of the PDZK1 (PDZ Domain Containing 1) Gene and Its Polymorphism (rs3753581) in Patients with Gout: Sex-specific Analysis with Emphasis on Women

Tashpulatova Maktuba Muxamedali Qizi — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Gout is a chronic multifactorial metabolic and inflammatory disease characterised by persistent hyperuricaemia, deposition of monosodium urate crystals in tissues and joints, recurrent inflammatory arthritis, and progressive renal and cardiovascular complications. Increasing attention has been directed towards the role of genetic factors in uric acid metabolism, particularly genes that regulate renal urate transport systems. Among these genes, PDZK1 has an important role because it regulates transporter proteins such as URAT1, GLUT9, ABCG2, and OAT4, which are involved in uric acid reabsorption and excretion. Functional disturbances and polymorphic variants of PDZK1 may impair urate homeostasis and contribute to hyperuricaemia and gout, especially in women, in whom hormonal changes also influence urate metabolism. This study aimed to evaluate the frequency of the PDZK1 (rs3753581) gene polymorphism in women with gout and determine its clinical and pathogenetic significance through comparison with male patients. The study included 102 women and 100 men diagnosed with gout according to established clinical criteria, 101 women with asymptomatic hyperuricaemia, and 20 apparently healthy women as the control group. All participants were examined in the clinics of Tashkent Medical Academy between 2021 and 2025. Molecular genetic analysis was performed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based genotyping. DNA samples isolated from peripheral blood leucocytes were analysed to identify PDZK1 rs3753581 polymorphic variants and evaluate their associations with clinical manifestations and laboratory indicators. The results showed that the G/G genotype was significantly more common in women with gout and was associated with a more severe clinical phenotype, including higher serum uric acid levels, more frequent acute gout attacks, stronger pain syndrome, a greater number of tophi, and signs of nephropathy and impaired renal function. Correlation analysis revealed significant positive associations between the G/G genotype and the severity of hyperuricaemia, suggesting that this polymorphic variant may contribute to impaired uric acid excretion and enhanced inflammatory activity. In contrast, the A/A genotype was detected predominantly in healthy women and in patients with asymptomatic hyperuricaemia, suggesting a potential protective effect against progression to clinically manifest gout and severe metabolic complications. PDZK1 gene expression also showed statistically significant correlations with serum uric acid concentration, creatinine levels, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and atherogenic index.

Bioactive Phyto-constituents and their Ameliorative Property in Diabetes Mellitus: A Detailed Report on Bitter Gourd, Ivy Gourd, and Mulberry

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a global disease that affects people of all socioeconomic backgrounds and geographical locations. It is an endocrine condition that affects multiple organs and is associated with insufficient insulin. Most antidiabetic medications act by reducing blood glucose and improving glycaemic control, either by increasing insulin production or by decreasing insulin resistance. Indigenous plant-based remedies have been used to treat diabetes since early Ayurvedic traditions. Herbal remedies reduce insulin resistance, increase insulin release from islet beta-cells, and/or inhibit insulin-degrading enzymes. The current study used the DPPH assay, α-amylase inhibition, α-glucosidase inhibition assay, and phytochemical tests to examine the anti-diabetic activity of three plants and their selected parts: fruits of Momordica charantia (bitter gourd), fruits of Coccinia grandis (ivy gourd), and leaves of Morus alba (mulberry). The findings suggest that bitter gourd melon showed stronger antidiabetic properties, as evidenced by the four assays: ABTS (IC50 = 73.90 µg/mL), DPPH (IC50 = 68.71 µg/mL), α-glucosidase inhibition assay (IC50 = 65.11 µg/mL), and α-amylase assay (IC50 = 102.3 µg/mL). A range of phytoactive compounds with potential antidiabetic properties were also identified in the study. By scavenging reactive oxidants, inhibiting α-glucosidase and α-amylase, and functioning as an antioxidant, M. charantia acts as a bioactive agent with antidiabetic properties. The preliminary results establish M. charantia as an important plant source with potential for future exploration in diabetes research.

Effects of Cocos nucifera (L.) Fruit Extract on Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) Levels in Testosterone Propionate-Induced Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia in Male Wistar Rats

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common non-malignant enlargement of the prostate gland associated with ageing and androgenic stimulation. This study investigated the ameliorative effect of Cocos nucifera (L.) fruit extract on prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels in testosterone propionate-induced benign prostatic hyperplasia in male Wistar rats. A total of seventy-six (76) male Wistar rats were used, with twenty (20) animals utilised for preliminary studies and determination of LD50, while fifty-six (56) animals were used for the main experiment. The animals were divided into seven (7) groups, with eight (8) Wistar rats in each group. Benign prostatic hyperplasia was induced using testosterone propionate (TP). Group 2 received TP only without treatment. Groups 3, 4, and 5 received 100 mg/kg, 150 mg/kg, and 250 mg/kg of Cocos nucifera extract, respectively, while Group 6 received 50 mg/kg tamsulosin. Serum PSA levels were evaluated after 28 and 56 days of treatment. Group 2 showed a significant elevation (p < 0.05) in PSA levels compared with the normal control group, confirming successful BPH induction. Treatment with Cocos nucifera (L.) extract significantly reduced PSA levels in the treated groups compared with the positive control group. The high-dose and prolonged-treatment groups showed greater reductions in PSA concentration, suggesting dose-dependent ameliorative activity of the extract. These findings indicate that Cocos nucifera (L.) fruit extract may exert protective effects against testosterone-induced benign prostatic hyperplasia and may have potential relevance in the management of prostate disorders.

Assessment of the Effects of Ethanol Leaf Extract of Momordica balsamina on Oxidative Markers and Renal Function Parameters in Lead-induced Nephrotoxic Wistar Rats

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Lead toxicity is one of the most harmful heavy metal poisonings in humans and animals. It affects the kidneys’ ability to excrete waste and toxic substances, thereby causing oxidative stress, inflammation and kidney damage.

Aims: This study investigated the effects of ethanol leaf extract of Momordica balsamina on renal function parameters and oxidative markers in lead-induced nephrotoxic Wistar rats.

Methodology: Acute toxicity testing was conducted using Lorke’s (1983) method. Thirty (30) healthy adult Wistar rats, weighing 180–200 g and obtained from the Animal House of the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, were randomly divided into six (6) groups of five (5) rats each. Group I served as the normal control and received standard feed and water. Group II (negative control) received 50 mg/kg lead acetate only for 14 days. Group III (positive control) received 50 mg/kg lead acetate for 14 days and was then treated with 70 mg/kg silymarin for 28 days. Groups IV, V and VI received 50 mg/kg lead acetate for 14 days and were then treated with graded doses of ethanol leaf extract of Momordica balsamina (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg, respectively) for 28 days. At the end of the experimental period, blood samples were collected for biochemical analyses. The oxidative stress marker malondialdehyde (MDA), antioxidant enzymes (catalase and superoxide dismutase), and renal function parameters, including sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, urea and creatinine, were determined using standard laboratory methods.

Results: Lead acetate administration significantly increased serum MDA, sodium, potassium, chloride, urea and creatinine levels, with significant reductions in catalase, superoxide dismutase and bicarbonate levels when compared with the normal control. However, treatment with ethanol leaf extract of Momordica balsamina caused a significant decrease in lipid peroxidation, improved antioxidant enzyme activity and improved renal function parameters when compared with the negative control group.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that ethanol leaf extract of M. balsamina produced no visible toxic effect even at a dose of 5000 mg/kg body weight. The leaf extract of M. balsamina ameliorated oxidative stress and reduced the functional impact of lead toxicity on the kidneys by improving renal function.

Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Garlic Allium sativum Extract against Argulus sp. Infection and Hematological Responses in Goldfish Carassius auratus

Ibnu Dwi Buwono, Miqdad Robbani, Yuniar Mulyani, Roffi Grandiosa Herman — Thu, 16 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Infection by Argulus sp. is a significant issue in the ornamental fish industry, particularly for goldfish (C. auratus) because it can lead to tissue damage, haemorrhaging, stress, reduced appetite, secondary infections, and mortality. Current treatments for fish diseases frequently rely on synthetic chemicals and antibiotics, which carry risks of environmental pollution, residue accumulation, and increased pathogen resistance. Garlic (A. sativum) extract contains active compounds, particularly allicin and organosulfur compounds, that possess antiparasitic, antibacterial, and immunostimulant properties, making it a potential natural treatment alternative. However, the effectiveness of garlic extract in controlling Argulus sp., and the concentrations that are safe with respect to the physiological responses of goldfish, have not yet been comprehensively evaluated.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of garlic (A. sativum) extract in controlling Argulus sp. infection in goldfish (C. auratus), determine the optimal dosage, and assess its effects on fish health parameters, including haematological responses.

Study Design: The experimental study employed a completely randomised design (CRD), consisting of five treatments and three replicates.

Place and Duration of Study: The research was conducted at Aquaculture Laboratory C in Building 4 (Joint Fisheries and Agriculture Building), Universitas Padjadjaran, Jatinangor, Indonesia, from January to June 2026.

Methodology: Goldfish naturally infected with Argulus sp. were used as test subjects. Garlic extract was prepared by maceration with 96% ethanol, followed by evaporation. An initial LC₅₀ test was conducted to determine a safe concentration range for the extract. Based on the LC₅₀ value of 11.06 ml/L (221.2 ppm), five treatment groups were established: A (0 ppm), B (1.25 ml/L or 25 ppm), C (2.5 ml/L or 50 ppm), D (5 ml/L or 100 ppm), and E (10 ml/L or 200 ppm), each with three replicates. For example, the 5 ml/L treatment was derived from a 20,000 ppm stock solution as follows: 20,000 × 5/1000=100 ppm. The fish were maintained under controlled conditions, and the garlic extract was administered via immersion. Parameters observed included clinical signs, haematological responses, survival rate, red blood cell count, white blood cell count, leukocyte differential, and water quality.

Results: Preliminary toxicity tests indicated that garlic extract showed antiparasitic potential against Argulus sp. while maintaining fish survival at the tested concentrations (200 ppm). The study results demonstrated that the administration of garlic (A. sativum) extract had a significant effect (P<0.05) on mortality, erythrocyte count, leukocyte count, lymphocyte percentage, and monocyte percentage in goldfish (C. auratus) infected with Argulus sp., whereas it did not significantly affect the neutrophil percentage (P>0.05). Treatment D (5 mL/L or 100 ppm) yielded the best response, characterised by the lowest mortality (36%), the highest erythrocyte count (1,282,450 cells/mm³), a leukocyte count of 107,800 cells/mm³, the highest lymphocyte percentage (77.67%), and the lowest monocyte percentage (14.33%). In addition to improving haematological parameters, Treatment D also resulted in clinical improvements, evidenced by increased responsiveness to feed and tapping stimuli, reduced infection-related lesions, and an accelerated recovery process. Duncan’s post-hoc test results indicated that Treatment D elicited a superior response compared to the other treatments across the majority of the observed parameters.

Conclusion: Administering garlic (A. sativum) extract at a dosage of 5 mL/L (100 ppm) proved optimal for controlling Argulus sp. infections in goldfish (C. auratus); this dosage resulted in the lowest mortality, increased erythrocyte counts, improved leukocyte profiles (by raising the percentage of lymphocytes and lowering that of monocytes), and accelerated the recovery of the clinical condition of the fish. In contrast, lower dosages failed to elicit optimal immune responses and antiparasitic effects, while higher dosages (10 mL/L or 200 ppm) caused high mortality (100%).

Assessment of Tolerance to Polyethylene Glycol-Induced Water Stress in Phaseolus vulgaris Varieties throughout Early Seedling Stage

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Aims: Water deficit (WD) has become a major hurdle for worldwide feed production, especially in the context of changing climate. Finding varieties that are more tolerant to drought is key to keeping up productivity in places where water is scarce. This research attempts to assess the influence of WD upon common bean growth.

Study Design: The research was carried out according to a fully randomly arranged block scheme involving polyethylene glycol (PEG) concentrations (T0: 0 MPa, T1: -0.9 MPa), varieties (14) and blocks (03).

Place and Duration of Study: Faculty of Science of the University of Yaoundé I in the greenhouse.

Methodology: The trial was performed using pots, and growth was measured as plant length, n° of leaves, crown diameter and chlorophyll concentrations.

Results: The results show that WD had a negative influence on the variables studied. Its influence on bean growth was variety dependent. The representation of PCA individuals and clustering allow us to classify the varieties into three classes: Class 1, consisting of varieties MAC55 and MAC33, which are sensitive to WD; class 2 comprising varieties NITU, Marron, FEB 192, Large white, ECAPAN and GL-22 which are moderately sensitive; and class 3 corresponding to varieties GLP190-S, Dor 701, TY, Mex 142, MUV-6 and PNN which are tolerant to WD. In Marron variety for example, the number of leaves, the plant height and the crown diameter at T0 was double that at T1. WD reduced total chlorophyll content (mg/ml) in varieties MAC55 (0), MAC33 (0), NITU (13.43), Marron (8.68), FEB 192 (8.69), Large white (13.92) and ECAPAN (11.51), but increased it in GLP190-S (22.58), Dor 701 (17.99), TY (19.46), Mex 142 (18.92), MUV-6 (20.06), PNN (20.60) and GL-22 (17.08).

Conclusion: Class 3 varieties are therefore recommended to farmers for their tolerance to drought during the growth of common beans.

Evaluation of Antidiabetic Properties of Aqueous Stem Bark Extract of Lophira lanceolata in High Sucrose Diet-induced Type 2-Like Diabetes, Using Drosophila melanogaster Model

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a lingering and persistent metabolic disease categorized by an inadequate insulin secretion or action. The rise in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) globally has increased the quest for an alternative therapeutic candidate. Drosophila melanogaster (fruit fly) is a model used studying diseases because of its genetic similarity to humans.

Aims: this study used a Drosophila melanogaster model to evaluate the antidiabetic effect of aqueous stem bark extract of Lophira lanceolata (ASBELL) in high-sucrose diet-induced type 2-like diabetes.

Methodology: For this study, flies between one and three days after emergence were used. They were divided into groups: Normal control (on drosophila standard diet), Diabetic control (30% high-sucrose diet for 7 days), Metformin-treated group received (4 mg/10 g diet) of metformin, and the treatment groups received 250, 500 or 1000 µg/10 g diet each. Fly haemolymph glucose was quantified using the glucose oxidase method to confirm induction of hyperglycaemia. trehalose, glycogen Triglyceride, and oxidative stress marker (MDA), as well as antioxidant catalase activity, were also determined. qRT-PCR was used to analyzed the gene expression of AMPK and associated key metabolic genes such as insulin receptor substrate (IRS), Acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) gene

Results: after the induction, the HSD fed flies displayed some characteristics of type 2-like diabetes, when compared to the normal control group, including hyperglycemia, elevated trehalose, glycogen triglycerides and MDA with reduced catalase activity when compared to normal control. the treatment groups showed a significant decrease in glucose, trehalose, glycogen triglyceride and MDA levels, as well as an increase in catalase activity, when compared to the diabetic control group. Gene-expression analysis shows upregulation of AMPK and IRS and downregulation of ACC and PEPCK, indicating potential improvements in insulin sensitivity, increased glucose uptake and improved lipid metabolism.

Conclusion: This study, revealed that ASBELL influenced metabolic, oxidative stress and gene expression changes in high-sucrose diet-induced type 2-like diabetes in Drosophila melanogaster. The ability of ASBELL to alter biochemical parameters and modulate related gene expression suggest the possible involvement of aqueous stem bark of Lophira lanceolata as a source of bioactive compound for further investigation in metabolic disorder.

The Effects of (Nothopanax scutellarium Merr) Leaf Extract on Total and Differential Leukocyte Counts in Male Mice

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Growing awareness of the importance of maintaining the immune system has increased interest in medicinal plants as potential sources of immunomodulatory agents. Nothopanax scutellarium Merr. has a long history of traditional medicinal use and contains several bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, tannins, and phenolic compounds.

Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the immunomodulatory effect of mangkokan leaf extract by assessing total and differential leukocyte counts in mice with ovalbumin-induced hypersensitivity.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in the Departments of Pharmacology and Biomedical Sciences, Universitas Baiturrahmah, from June to August 2023.

Methodology: A post-test-only control-group design was used with 24 healthy male mice (Mus musculus), which were randomly allocated to four groups (n = 6). Following the induction of hypersensitivity with ovalbumin, the mice received either 0.5% sodium carboxymethyl cellulose as the negative-control treatment or mangkokan leaf extract orally at doses of 100, 200, or 400 mg/kg body weight once daily for seven consecutive days. Total and differential leukocyte counts were determined using standard haematological methods. Total leukocyte counts were analysed using one-way ANOVA, whereas differential leukocyte counts were analysed using the Kruskal-Wallis test followed by Dunn-Bonferroni post hoc comparisons.

Results: Mangkokan leaf extract significantly increased total leukocyte counts across the dose groups compared with the negative control (one-way ANOVA, p < 0.001). Differential leukocyte analysis showed no significant differences in the percentages of basophils, eosinophils, band neutrophils, segmented neutrophils, or lymphocytes (p > 0.05). However, monocyte percentages differed significantly among the groups (p = 0.002), with the lowest percentage observed in the 100 mg/kg body weight group.

Conclusion: Mangkokan leaf extract increased total leukocyte counts and altered circulating monocyte percentages, suggesting immunomodulatory activity under the conditions of this study.