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Phylogenetic variants of Mycoplasma hominis from pregnant women and women presenting with infertility in Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, Nigeria

 1Chukwuka, C. P., 2Emele, F. E., 3Agbakoba, N. R., *1Ezeagwuna, D. A., and 4Oguejiofor, C. B.

 1Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, Anambra State, Nigeria

2Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi, Anambra State, Nigeria

3Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi Campus Nnewi, Anambra State, Nigeria

4Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Health Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi Campus, Nnewi, Anambra State, Nigeria

*Correspondence to: dorrezeagwuna@gmail.com; 08037745700 & 07088454383; ORCID-0000-0003-2259-720X

 

Abstract:

Background: Much controversies have been associated with the pathogenicity of Mycoplasma hominis but little has been done to unravel the mystery behind the different views. This study aimed at investigating the genetic variants abounding within M. hominis and the distribution of the virulent genes among the variants.

Methodology: Twenty (20) M. hominis isolates from high vaginal swabs of women (11 from pregnant women and 9 from women presenting with infertility) attending the Obstetrics and Gynaecology clinics of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH), Nnewi, Nigeria, were sequenced using 16S rRNA universal gene target for the purpose of phylogenetic analysis and epidemiological typing. The isolates were also screened for the presence of M. hominis variable adherence antigen (vaa) and p120 virulent genes using primer constructs from the respective genes in a conventional PCR protocol. Continue reading “Phylogenetic variants of Mycoplasma hominis from pregnant women and women presenting with infertility in Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, Nigeria”

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Pathogenic potential of Listeria monocytogenes isolated from cattle faeces in Adoekiti

M.A. Oyinloye, O.M. David, O Famurewa

 

Abstract

Listeria monocytogenes is an opportunistic food-borne pathogen causing listeriosis especially among immune-compromised persons. Its high rate of morbidity and mortality has classed the organism among the top watch list in foods. It is known to produce several virulence factors which aid its survival in harsh conditions and its dissemination within host cells. The pathogenicity of L. monocytogenes, isolated from cattle faeces in Ado-Ekiti, was determined in Wister albino rats for two weeks and the relative virulence was calculated. Rats were challenged with isolates producing listeriolysin O and phospholipase orally, intraperitoneally and subcutaneously. Biochemical parameters and haematoxylin and eosin (H and E) stained sections of selected organs were examined for significant changes (p < .05) and histopathological effects post-experiment. Relative virulence was recorded at 0% with rats showing no signs of infection or death. However, significant changes in total protein, lipid profile and some selected antioxidant enzymes, as well as cytological changes in the examined H and E sections of organs showed that an infection had occurred. Bacteria may have however been eradicated by the immune-competent rats. This study therefore concludes that isolates may be pathogenic especially for persons tagged ‘high risk’ due to low immunity.

Keywords:  L. monocytogenes, listeriosis, pathogenicity, histopathology, cattle feaces

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Pathogenic potential of Listeria monocytogenes isolated from cattle faece in Ado Ekiti