Faculty of Medicine and Surgery

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Accuracy of Fetal Foot Length Measurement in Estimation of Gestational Age and Fetal Weight in the Third Trimester of Pregnancy
(Journal of Health Research and Reviews, 2018) Ebraheem,Mohamed; Malik,Bushra Abdel; Ali,Qurashi M; Gameraddin,Moawia; Gareeballah,Awadia
Background: Fetal foot length (FFL) is a biometric parameter that has been established for estimating the gestational age (GA). Accurate knowledge of fetal weight (FW) and GA assist Clinicians in the evaluation of fetal growth and predict neonatal outcomes. Aims: This study aims to predict the estimated FW and GA using the FFL in 26–40 weeks’ gestation on antenatal ultrasound. Materials and Methods: In a retrospective study, we investigated the fetal measurements of FFL, femoral length (FL), and estimated FW in 100 pregnant women at 26–16 weeks’ gestation who attended routine antenatal care. The fetal measurements were examined about the foot length. Results: The foot length was not a significance parameter to determine fetal gender (P = 0.6). There was no correlation of FFL with maternal socioeconomic status, parity, fetal gender, and maternal body mass index, P = 0.26, 0.84, 0.67, and 0.26, respectively. The FFL, FL, and estimated FW were strongly and linearly correlated with GA. The combination of FL, foot length, and estimated FW provide an accurate estimation of GA with minimum (standard error [SE] = 1.75). The combination of FL and foot length provide an accurate prediction of FW with SE of 320.52. The foot length and FL revealed similar values of SEs in estimated FW (R2 = 0.85) for each. Conclusions: The FFL is linearly correlated with GA, FW, and FL. It is an accurate parameter to assess the GA and reliable for predicting the estimated FW. This is useful for assessing fetal growth and skeletal dysplasia.
Adenylate cyclase 3: a new target for anti-obesity drug development
(obesity reviews, 2016) Wu,L; Shen,C; Ahmed,M. Seed; Östenson,C.-G; Gu,H. F
Obesity has become epidemic worldwide, and abdominal obesity has a negative im- pact on health. Current treatment options on obesity, however, still remain limited. It is then of importance to find a new target for anti-obesity drug development based upon recent molecular studies in obesity. Adenylate cyclase 3 (ADCY3) is the third member of adenylyl cyclase family and catalyses the synthesis of cAMP from ATP. Genetic studies with candidate gene and genome-wide association study approaches have demonstrated that ADCY3 genetic polymorphisms are associated with obesity in European and Chinese populations. Epigenetic studies have indi- cated that increased DNA methylation levels in the ADCY3 gene are involved in the pathogenesis of obesity. Furthermore, biological analyses with animal models have implicated that ADCY3 dysfunction resulted in increased body weight and fat mass, while reduction of body weight is partially explained by ADCY3 activa- tion. In this review, we describe genomic and biological features of ADCY3, sum- marize genetic and epigenetic association studies of the ADCY3 gene with obesity and discuss dysfunction and activation of ADCY3. Based upon all data, we suggest that ADCY3 is a new target for anti-obesity drug development. Further investiga- tion on the effectiveness of ADCY3 activator and its delivery approach to treat ab- dominal obesity has been taken into our consideration.
Advancements in non-invasive biomarkers for detection and monitoring of breast cancer recurrence
(SCIENCE PROGRESS, 2025) El-Tanani, Yahia; El-Tanani, Mohamed; Rabbani, Syed Arman; Babiker, Rasha; Satyam, Shakta Mani
Breast cancer recurrence remains a major cause of mortality, with up to 30% of early stage patients relapsing as incurable metastatic disease. Conventional surveillance with imaging and serum markers (CA15–3, CEA) lacks the sensitivity and specificity to detect minimal residual disease. This narrative review examines non-invasive biomarkers such as circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and exosomes and the technologies enhancing their performance. Droplet digital PCR and next-generation sequencing detect ctDNA at allele frequencies below 0.1%, identifying molecular relapse a median of 10–12 months before radiologic progression. Microfluidic and affinity-based platforms isolate CTCs with over 75% sensitivity in metastatic settings. Nanoengineered sensors and standardized workflows improve exosome isolation, revealing miRNA and protein signatures predictive of recurrence. Proteomic and metabolomic profiling iden tify dysregulated metabolic pathways and protein networks, offering functional insights that complement molecular assays. Integrative multi-omics approaches merge genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic and metabolomic data; machine-learning frameworks detect subtle patterns and correlations, enabling dynamic, personalized surveillance. By detect ing molecular and functional biomarkers early, clinicians can tailor therapy, monitor treatment response and intervene promptly. Challenges include low analyte abundance, assay variability, high costs and lack of standardized protocols, limiting clinical adoption. Prospective validation in large cohorts is critical. We highlight ongoing clinical trials such as ctDNA-guided adjuvant therapy and CTC-driven stratification studies that aim to establish clinical utility. Non-invasive biomarker platforms could shift breast cancer fol low-up from reactive detection to proactive intervention, ultimately improving survival and quality of life through personalized, real-time monitoring.
Association of Platelet Serotonin Levels in Alzheimer’s Disease with Clinical and Cerebrospinal Fluid Markers
(Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, 2016) Tajeddinna,Walid; Fereshtehnejad,Seyed-Mohammad; Ahmed,Mohammed Seed; Yoshitaked,Takashi; Kehr,Jan; Shahnaz,Tasmin; Milovanovic,Micha; Behbahani,Homira; Hoglund ,Kina; Winblad,Bengt; Cedazo-Minguez,Angel; Jelic,Vesna; Jaremo,Petter; Aarsland,Dag
Introduction: Serotonin (5-HT) is involved in the pathology of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Objective: We aimed to measure 5-HT level in platelets in AD and explore its association with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), AD biomarkers (amyloid- 1-42 (A42), total tau (t-tau), and phosphorylated tau (p-tau)), and clinical symptoms. Methods: 15 patients with AD and 20 patients with subjective cognitive impairment (SCI) were included. 5-HT metabolites were measured, in a specific fraction, using high performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection (HPLC- ECD). Results: Significantly lower 5-HT concentrations were observed in AD patients compared to SCI patients both after normal- ization against total protein (p = 0.008) or platelet count (p = 0.019). SCI patients with lower 5-HT level have higher AD CSF biomarkers, total tau (p = 0.026) and tau/A42 ratio (p = 0.001), compared to those with high 5-HT levels. Conclusion: AD patients have reduced platelet 5-HT levels. In SCI, lower 5-HT content was associated with a higher AD-CSF biomarker burden.
Case report of a novel homozygous splice site mutation in PLA2G6 gene causing infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy in a Sudanese family
(BMC Medical Genetics, 2018) Elsayed,Liena E. O; Mohammed,Inaam N; Hamed,Ahlam A. A; Elseed,Maha A; Salih,Mustafa A. M; Yahia,Ashraf; Siddig,Rayan A; Amin,Mutaz; Koko,Mahmoud; Elbashir,Mustafa I; Ibrahim,Muntaser E; Brice,Alexis; Ahmed,Ammar E; Stevanin,Giovanni
Background: Infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy (INAD) is a rare hereditary neurological disorder caused by mutations in PLA2G6. The disease commonly affects children below 3 years of age and presents with delay in motor skills, optic atrophy and progressive spastic tetraparesis. Studies of INAD in Africa are extremely rare, and genetic studies from Sub Saharan Africa are almost non-existent. Case presentation: Two Sudanese siblings presented, at ages 18 and 24 months, with regression in both motor milestones and speech development and hyper-reflexia. Brain MRI showed bilateral and symmetrical T2/FLAIR hyperintense signal changes in periventricular areas and basal ganglia and mild cerebellar atrophy. Whole exome sequencing with confirmatory Sanger sequencing were performed for the two patients and healthy family members. A novel variant (NM_003560.2 c.1427 + 2 T > C) acting on a splice donor site and predicted to lead to skipping of exon 10 was found in PLA2G6. It was found in a homozygous state in the two patients and homozygous reference or heterozygous in five healthy family members. Conclusion: This variant has one very strong (loss of function mutation) and three supporting evidences for its pathogenicity (segregation with the disease, multiple computational evidence and specific patients’ phenotype). Therefore this variant can be currently annotated as “pathogenic”. This is the first study to report mutations in PLA2G6 gene in patients from Sudan.
Causes of end stage renal failure among haemodialysis patients in Khartoum State/Sudan
(2015) Banaga,Amin S. I; Mohammed,Elaf B; Siddig,Rania M; Salama,Diana E; Elbashir,Sara B; Khojali,Mohamed O; Babiker,Rasha A; Elmusharaf,Khalifa; Homeida,Mamoun M
Background: End stage renal failure (ESRF) has become a major health problem in Sub Saharan Africa (SSA). There were limited data about causes of ESRF in the Sudan. Methods: This is a cross sectional hospital based descriptive study. The subjects of the study are ESRF adults’ patients on regular haemodialysis treatment in 15 haemdoialysis centres in Khartoum State—Sudan. Clinical and epidemio- logical data were obtained from 1583 patients. The medical files of each patient were reviewed to identify the cause of ESRF. Concerning the causes of ESRF, diabetes was diagnosed based on the past medical history and result of the glucose tolerance test, hypertension was diagnosed based on past history of hypertension based on blood pressure of more than 140/90 mmHg, glomerulonephritis was diagnosed based on results of previous kidney biopsies and on clinical grounds, polycystic kidney disease and obstructive uropathy were diagnosed based on abdominal ultrasound and other imaging modalities, sickle cell anaemia was diagnosed based on the result of haemoglobin electrophoresis, systemic lupus erythematosus was diagnosed based on the clinical criteria in addition to lab results of auto antibod- ies, and analgesic nephropathy was diagnosed based on past medical history of chronic analgesic drugs usage with no other identifiable risk factors. We included all ESRF patients on regular haemodialysis treatment. We excluded ESRF patients less than 18 years old. Results: The results showed that the mean age of ESRF Patients was 49 ± 15.8 (years) and 63.4 % were male and 76.3 % were unemployed. The mean duration of haemodialysis is 4.38 ± 4.24 (years). The most common cause of ESRF in our patients was hypertension (34.6 %) followed by chronic glomerulonephritis (17.6 %), diabetes mellitus (12.8 %), obstructive uropathy (9.6 %), autosomal dominant poly cystic kidney disease (ADPKD) (4.7 %), chronic pyelonephritis (4.6 %), analgesic nephropathy (3.5 %). However in (10.7 %) no cause was found. In patient aged less than 40 years old the leading cause of ESRF was glomerulonephritis (29.3 %) followed by hypertension (25 %). In patient aged between 40 to 60 years old the leading cause of ESRF was hypertension (38.5 %) followed by diabetes mellitus (14 %). In patient aged older than 60 years the leading cause of ESRF was hypertension (38.4 %) followed by diabetes mellitus (23.3 %). Conclusions: ESRF in Sudan affects the economically productive age group; unemployment rate among ESRF patients is high. The study showed that hypertension is a leading cause of ESRF in Sudan followed by chronic glomer- ulonephritis. Hypertension and diabetes mellitus are the leading causes of ESRF among patients over 40 years old.
Comparative Efficacy of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors and Therapeutic Vaccines in Solid Tumors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
(Vaccines, 2025) Babiker, Rasha; Wali, Adil Farooq; El-Tanani, Mohamed; Rabbani, Syed Arman; Rangraze, Imran; Satyam, Shakta Mani; Patni, Mohamed Anas; El-Tanani, Yahia
Background: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and therapeutic vaccines have emerged as promising immunotherapeutic strategies for solid tumors. However, their comparative efficacy in improving overall survival (OS) remains unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy of ICIs and therapeutic vaccines in improving OS in patients with solid tumors. Methods: A comprehensive search was con ducted across PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Clinical Trials.gov for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2024. Studies comparing ICIs or therapeutic vaccines against control treatments (placebo, standard of care, or active comparators) in adults with solid tumors were included. The primary out come was OS, and data were pooled using RevMan (web). Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. Results: Thirteen RCTs involving 10,991 participants were included. A total of 5722 of them were treated with therapeutic vaccines or checkpoint inhibitors. Therapeutic vaccines demonstrated insignificant improvement in OS, with a pooled mean difference of 1.89 months (95% CI: −0.54–4.31; P = 0.13), although with homo geneity (I2 = 0%). ICIs showed a statistically significant OS benefit, with a pooled mean difference of 1.32 months (95% CI: 0.62–2.02; P = 0.0002) and low heterogeneity (I2 = 12%). Conclusions: Therapeutic vaccines provide a larger but less consistent benefit, whereas ICIs offer modest but more consistent survival advantage. These findings support the need for personalized immunotherapy approaches as well as further research to identify predictive biomarkers and optimize treatment strategies by acquiring deep insights into the TMEdynamic and behaviors.
Development and application of a learning enjoyment scale for pedagogical activities [version 2; peer review: 2 approved]
(F1000Research, 2024) Merghani, Tarig; Babiker, Rasha; Alawad, Azza O.
The impact of learning enjoyment on motivation, enthusiasm, and overall learning experiences is significant. Previous studies, lacking an unbiased tool for measuring enjoyment and confronting various influencing factors, produced conflicting results regarding enjoyment levels in different instructional methods. Hence, we developed a learning enjoyment scale for evaluating both active and passive educational activities. We applied the developed scale to 112 first-year medical and dental students to assess their enjoyment during didactic physiology lectures and explored possible associated factors. Within this data note, we present students’ responses to the developed LES. The LES encompasses six dimensions: knowledge, comprehension, application, analysis, concentration, and enjoyment. Students provided ratings for each dimension on a five-point Likert scale, spanning from 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree). The cumulative scores across the six dimensions range from a minimum of 6 to a maximum of 30. These total scores can be categorized as excellent (> 24), acceptable (18-24), or low (< 18). The second section of the dataset examines specific factors influencing overall enjoyment, such as teacher proficiency, topic difficulty, active student participation, objectives fulfillment, low stress levels, and self perceived acquisition of skills. In addition to objective measurement of students’ enjoyment level, the LES can be utilized for quantitative cross-comparisons between different teaching activities. By employing this dataset, we will undertake an analysis to determine the internal consistency of the Learning Enjoyment Scale (LES), with the anticipation that the outcomes will be published in another venue
E-learning Experiences and Challenges among Faculty Members in Alfajr College’s Undergraduate Medical Program, Sudan
(Sudan Journal of Health Sciences, 2025) Mohamed, Mohamed E. A.; Mohammed, Mazen A. M.; Magbol, Mustafa A.; Hajomer, Hiba A. E.; Izzoddeen, Ahmad
Background: E-learning is a learning experience using various electronic devices and software programs. This study documents the E-learning experience and provides insight into acceptance and barriers. Methods: This is a cross-sectional descriptive study at Alfajr College, Medicine Program, Sudan. The study adopted a questionnaire to interview the teaching staff, aided by a simple interview guide to collect data on the E-learning methods and approach. The college used both synchronized and asynchronized E-learning, using a Learning Management System (LMS). This was supported by user-friendly applications like WhatsApp and Telegram to be used by students. The college developed its own electronic application for assessments and electronic team-based learning that is LMS-augmented. Results: A total of 84 faculty members were interviewed. E-learning was thought to be a flexible educational modality by 73% of the participants, and reasonably convenient to educators to use at their own speed (51% agreed, 20% disagreed, and 29% were uncertain). Barriers to efficiently using E-learning technology were: insufficient/unstable Internet connectivity (94%), decreased students’ interactivity in the online course (87%), technical problems (86%), difficulties in receiving student feedback in the online course (66%), frequent interruptions by family environment at home (58%) and insufficient technology know-how by the faculty staff (41%). Conclusion: Overall, faculty members accepted the technology well. Challenges reported included improving technology systems, more training for faculty staff, and improving student interactions and feedback.
Effect of Gum Arabic (Acacia Senegal) supplementation on visceral adiposity index (VAI) and blood pressure in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus as indicators of cardiovascular disease (CVD): a randomized and placebo-controlled clinical trial
(Lipids in Health and Disease, 2018) Babiker, Rasha; Elmusharaf, Khalifa; Keogh, Michael B.; Saeed, Amal M.
Background: There is a strong association between cardiometabolic risk and adipose tissue dysfunction with great consequences on type 2 diabetic patients. Visceral Adiposity Index (VAI) is an indirect clinical marker of adipose tissue dysfunction. Gum Arabic (GA) is a safe dietary fiber, an exudate of Acacia Senegal. Gum Arabic had shown lipid lowering effect in both humans and animals. The aim of this trial was to determine the effect of GA supplementation on anthropometric obesity marker, Visceral Adiposity Index (VAI) and blood pressure in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Methods: This randomized, double blinded, placebo controlled trial recruited a total of 91 type 2 diabetic patients (73 females, 18 males), age (mean ±SD) 50.09±9.3 years on hypoglycemic agents and were randomly assigned into two groups, either to consume 30 g of GA or 5 g of placebo daily for 3 months. Anthropometric obesity markers were measured and indices were calculated. Blood pressure was measured and high density lipoprotein (HDL) and triglycerides (TG) were determined in fasting blood samples at the start and end of the study period. Results: After intervention, Gum Arabic decreased BMI and VAI significantly (P < 0.05) in GA group by 2 and 23.7% respectively. Body adiposity index significantly decreased by 3.9% in GA group while there were no significant changes in waist circumference or waist-to-hip ratio (WHR). Systolic blood pressure significantly decreased by 7.6% in GA group and by 2.7% in placebo group from baseline with no significant changes in diastolic blood pressure in the two groups. Conclusion: Gum Arabic consumption at a dose of 30 g/d for 3 months may play an effective role in preventing weight gain and modulating adipose tissue dysfunction in type 2 diabetic patients, although no effect has been shown in waist-to-hip ratio
Effects of gum Arabic ingestion on body mass index and body fat percentage in healthy adult females: two-arm randomized, placebo controlled, double-blind trial
(Nutrition Journal, 2012) Babiker, Rasha; Merghani, Tarig H; Elmusharaf, Khalifa; Badi, Rehab M; Lang, Florian; Saeed, Amal M
Background: Gum Arabic (acacia Senegal) is a complex polysaccharide indigestible to both humans and animals. It has been considered as a safe dietary fiber by the United States, Food and Drug Administration (FDA) since the 1970s. Although its effects were extensively studied in animals, there is paucity of data regarding its quantified use in humans. This study was conducted to determine effects of regular Gum Arabic (GA) ingestion on body mass index and body fat percentage among healthy adult females. Methods: A two-arm randomized, placebo controlled, double-blind trial was conducted in the Department of Physiology at the Khartoum University. A total of 120 healthy females completed the study. They were divided to two groups: A test group of 60 volunteers receiving GA (30 gm /day) for 6 weeks and a placebo group of 60 volunteers receiving pectin (1 gm/day) for the same period of time. Weight and height were measured before and after intervention using standardized height and weight scales. Skin fold thickness was measured using Harpenden Skin fold caliper. Fat percentage was calculated using Jackson and Pollock 7 caliper method and Siri equation. Results: Pre and post analysis among the study group showed significant reduction in BMI by 0.32 (95% CI: 0.17 to 0.47; P<0.0001) and body fat percentage by 2.18% (95% CI: 1.54 to 2.83; P<0.0001) following regular intake of 30 gm /day Gum Arabic for six weeks. Side effects caused by GA ingestion were experienced only in the first week. They included unfavorable viscous sensation in the mouth, early morning nausea, mild diarrhea and bloating abdomen. Conclusions: GA ingestion causes significant reduction in BMI and body fat percentage among healthy adult females. The effect could be exploited in the treatment of obesity.
Effects of gum Arabic ingestion on body mass index and body fat percentage in healthy adult females: two-arm randomized, placebo controlled, double-blind trial
(Nutrition Journal, 2012) Babiker,Rasha; Merghani,Tarig H; Elmusharaf,Khalifa; Badi,Rehab M; Lang,Florian; Saeed,Amal M
Background: Gum Arabic (acacia Senegal) is a complex polysaccharide indigestible to both humans and animals. It has been considered as a safe dietary fiber by the United States, Food and Drug Administration (FDA) since the 1970s. Although its effects were extensively studied in animals, there is paucity of data regarding its quantified use in humans. This study was conducted to determine effects of regular Gum Arabic (GA) ingestion on body mass index and body fat percentage among healthy adult females. Methods: A two-arm randomized, placebo controlled, double-blind trial was conducted in the Department of Physiology at the Khartoum University. A total of 120 healthy females completed the study. They were divided to two groups: A test group of 60 volunteers receiving GA (30 gm /day) for 6 weeks and a placebo group of 60 volunteers receiving pectin (1 gm/day) for the same period of time. Weight and height were measured before and after intervention using standardized height and weight scales. Skin fold thickness was measured using Harpenden Skin fold caliper. Fat percentage was calculated using Jackson and Pollock 7 caliper method and Siri equation. Results: Pre and post analysis among the study group showed significant reduction in BMI by 0.32 (95% CI: 0.17 to 0.47; P<0.0001) and body fat percentage by 2.18% (95% CI: 1.54 to 2.83; P<0.0001) following regular intake of 30 gm /day Gum Arabic for six weeks. Side effects caused by GA ingestion were experienced only in the first week. They included unfavorable viscous sensation in the mouth, early morning nausea, mild diarrhea and bloating abdomen. Conclusions: GA ingestion causes significant reduction in BMI and body fat percentage among healthy adult females. The effect could be exploited in the treatment of obesity.
Emerging Multifunctional Biomaterials for Addressing Drug Resistance in Cancer
(Biology, 2025) El-Tanani, Mohamed; Rabbani, Syed Arman; Babiker, Rasha; El-Tanani, Yahia; Satyam, Shakta Mani; Porntaveetus, Thantrira
Drug resistance remains a major barrier to effective cancer treatment, contributing to poor patient outcomes. Multifunctional biomaterials integrating electrical and catalytic properties offer a transformative strategy to target diverse resistance mechanisms. This review explores their ability to modulate cellular processes, remodel the tumor microen vironment (TME), and enhance drug delivery. Electrically active biomaterials enhance drug uptake and apoptotic sensitivity by altering membrane potentials, ion channels, and intracellular signaling, synergizing with chemotherapy. Catalytic biomaterials generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), activate prodrugs, reprogram hypoxic and acidic TME, and degrade the extracellular matrix (ECM) to improve drug penetration. Hybrid nanomaterials (e.g., conductive hydrogels, electrocatalytic nanoparticles), synergize electrical and catalytic properties for localized, stimuli-responsive therapy and targeted drug release, minimizing systemic toxicity. Despite challenges in biocompatibility and scalability, future integration with immunotherapy, personalized medicine, and intelligent self-adaptive systems capable of real-time tumor response promises to accelerate clinical translation. The development of these adaptive biomaterials, alongside advancements in nanotechnology and AI-driven platforms, represents the next frontier in precision oncology. This review highlights the potential of multifunctional biomaterials to revolutionize cancer therapy by addressing multidrug resistance at cellular, genetic, and microenvironmental levels, offering a roadmap to improve therapeutic outcomes and reshape oncology practice.
Epigenetic Alterations in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Mechanisms, Biomarkers, and Therapeutic Implications
(Pharmaceuticals, 2025) Wali, Adil Farooq; Ansari, Abid Reza; Mir , Prince Ahad; El-Tanani , Mohamed; Babiker , Rasha; Hussain, Md Sadique; Uppal, Jasreen; Zargar, Asma Ishrat; Mir, Reyaz Hassan
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most prevalent primary liver cancer, continues to pose a significant global health burden due to its high mortality rate. In addition to genetic alterations, epigenetic aberrations, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, chromatin remodeling, and noncoding RNA (ncRNA) dysregulation, play critical roles in HCCinitiation and progression. Notably, miR-375 and miR-483-5p are among the most dysregulated miRNAs in HCC, with their altered expression levels closely associated with tumor stage and patient survival. These epigenetic modifications offer promising therapeu tic avenues due to their reversibility and dynamic nature. Furthermore, specific epigenetic signatures such as CDH1 promoter hypermethylation and HOTAIR overexpression are being explored as potential biomarkers for early detection and treatment response. In this chapter, we review recent advances in the epigenetic landscape of HCC and discuss their diagnostic and therapeutic implications, highlighting their potential to improve patient outcomes through personalized medicine approaches
Evaluation of the toxic influence of vitamin E (dl-alpha-tocopheryl acetate) and treatment with aqueous extracts of cinnamon or anise on lipid profile and liver functions of female wistar rats
(International Journal of Medicine, 2017) Ibrahim ,Sabah A. E; Sabahelkhier,Murwan K
The toxic effects of vitamin E and its treatment with aqueous extracts of Cinnamon or anise on lipid profile and liver functions of female wistar rats were examined for six weeks during September 2016 at labs in al-Neelain University. 18 rats were divided into six groups: 1. negative control group (sunflower oil), 2. Positive control group and rest groups given (1500 mg/Kg/BW/day of Vitamin E). After two hours, the four treated groups received a low dose (2.13g/Kg) and a high dose (3.20g/Kg) 20g/Kg from Cinnamon aqueous extract (CAE) and Anise aqueous extract (AAE). At the end rats were sacrificed then serum and liver tissues were analyzed. Vitamin E toxic dose had caused a significant increase in serum Triglycerides (TG), Alanine amino transferase (ALT) levels, while it decreased the levels of High- density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), total cholesterol (TC) and Aspartate amino transferase (AST). All treatments decreased TG and ALT levels. CAE low dose significantly increased TC, LDL and HDL levels. CAE high dose caused a significant decrease in AST, TC, and LDL. Both doses of AAE, caused significant increases on AST levels, and only anise low dose caused a signif- icant decrease on TC and LDL levels. Vitamin E toxic dose caused severe fatty change in liver histology, which was near normal in both doses of CAE with a small necrosis in a low dose. Only AAE low dose normalized the liver. To conclude Vitamin E oral administration with a dose of (1500 mg/Kg) induced liver injury with an elevation in ALT and TG levels, which was significantly ameliorated by both treatments. Cinnamon was better than anise in ameliorating the toxicity. Cinnamon high dose was better than Cinnamon low dose; in contrast anise low dose was better than Anise high dose.
Exploring the quality of life of end-stage kidney disease patients in Khartoum State, Sudan: a multicenter cross-sectional study
(BMC Nephrology, 2025) Hajomer, Hiba Ali Elzaki; Elkhidir, Osama Ahmed; Elawad, Sara; Ahmed, Ahmed Balla M.; Elawad, Shaima Omer Mohamed; Elbadawi, Mohamed H.; Elhassan, Wael Atif Fadl; Mohamed, Rafa Awad Gasimelseed; Ali, Kamil Merghani; Mahmoud, Tahani Amin; Kheir, Sarra Mohamed
Background Given the rising incidence of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) in Sudan, assessing health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is critical for evaluating patient outcomes. This study evaluated HRQOL and associated factors in end stage kidney disease patients in Khartoum State renal centers in Sudan. Methods This cross-sectional study administered the Kidney Disease Quality of Life Short Form (KDQOL-SF™) to 150 ESKD patients on maintenance dialysis for ≥ one month across 13 renal centers in Khartoum State. Data were analyzed using SPSS Statistics. Independent t-tests, ANOVA, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analyses were conducted to assess associations. The p-value was set at 0.05 for statistical significance. Results The Physical (40.17 ± 9.01) and Mental (47.10 ± 9.86) Component scores significantly affected HRQOL in ESKD patients. The lowest scores were observed for burden of kidney disease (31.25 ± 38) and work status (0.00 ± 50). The SF-12 Physical Component was associated with employment status (p < 0.001) and dialysis accompaniment (p = 0.011). Diabetes comorbidity affected the Mental Component (p = 0.017). Hospitalization frequency showed significant negative correlations with the SF-12 Mental Component (r = -0.249), burden of kidney disease (r = -0.330), effects of kidney disease (r = -0.303), and Kidney Disease Component Summary (r = -0.247). In the multiple regression model for the SF-12 Physical Component, age group was the only significant factor (p = 0.023). Conclusion Both physical and mental health domains were significantly impaired in the studied ESKD population. The lowest scores were observed for disease burden and work status. Enhancing healthcare access, addressing comorbidities, and reducing financial strain may improve outcomes. Further longitudinal and case-control studies are warranted to clarify determinants of HRQOL.
Expression of Protein Kinase C Isoforms in Pancreatic Islets and Liver of Male Goto- Kakizaki Rats, a Model of Type 2 Diabetes
(PLOS ONE journal, 2015) Ahmed,Mohammed Seed; Pelletier,Julien; Leumann,Hannes; Gu,Harvest F; Östenson,Claes-Göran
Protein kinase C (PKC) is a family of protein kinases controlling protein phosphorylation and playing important roles in the regulation of metabolism. We have investigated expres- sion levels of PKC isoforms in pancreatic islets and liver of diabetic Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rats with and without insulin treatment to evaluate their association with glucose homeostasis. mRNA and protein expression levels of PKC isoforms were assessed in pancreatic islets and liver of Wistar rats and GK rats with or without insulin treatment. PKCα and PKCζ mRNA expressions were down-regulated in islets of GK compared with Wistar rats. PKCα and phosphorylated PKCα (p-PKCα) protein expressions were decreased in islets of GK compared with insulin-treated GK and Wistar rats. PKCζ protein expression in islets was reduced in GK and insulin-treated GK compared with Wistar rats, but p-PKCζ was decreased only in GK rats. Islet PKCε mRNA and protein expressions were lower in GK compared with insulin-treated GK and Wistar rats. In liver, PKCδ and PKCζ mRNA expres- sions were decreased in both GK and insulin-treated GK compared with Wistar rats. Hepatic PKCζ protein expression was diminished in both GK rats with and without insulin treatment compared with Wistar rats. Hepatic PKCε mRNA expression was down-regulated in insulin- treated GK compared with GK and Wistar rats. PKCα, PKCε, and p-PKCζ expressions were secondary to hyperglycaemia in GK rat islets. Hepatic PKCδ and PKCζ mRNA expressions were primarily linked to hyperglycaemia. Additionally, hepatic PKCε mRNA expression could be under control of insulin.
Genetic Association of Adrenergic Receptor Alpha 2a with Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes
(Original Article EPIDEMIOLOGY/GENETICS, 2013) La ̊ ngberg,Ewa-Carin; Ahmed,Mohammed Seed; Efendic,Suad; Gu,Harvest F; Ostenson,Claes-Goran
Objective: The sympathetic nervous system (SNS) is linked to glucose, lipid, and protein metabolism. The a2A-adrenergic receptor (ADRA2A) is involved in the SNS and mediates inhibition of insulin secretion and lipolysis. The association of ADRA2A single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with obesity and/or type 2 diabetes (T2D) was investigated. Design and Methods: Genotyping was performed in a case–control study of 1,177 Swedish individuals, including lean and obese subjects with normal glucose tolerance (NGT) and T2D patients. ADRA2A mRNA expression was measured in pancreatic islets isolated from T2D patients and nondiabetic subjects. Results: SNP rs553668 was associated with T2D in men (odds ratio [OR] 1⁄4 1.47; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1⁄4 1.08–2.01; P 1⁄4 0.015) but this association was lost after adjusting for age and for body mass index (BMI). Associations were also detected when comparing obese NGT and lean NGT subjects (OR 1⁄4 1.49; 95% CI 1⁄4 1.07–2.07; P 1⁄4 0.017), and in obese (OR 1⁄4 1.62; 95% CI 1⁄4 1.06–2.49; P 1⁄4 0.026), but not in lean T2D. In women, multiple logistic regression regarding SNP rs521674 demonstrated an increased OR of 7.61 (95% CI 1⁄4 1.70–34.17; P 1⁄4 0.008) for T2D when including age as a covariant. Correcting for BMI removed the significant association. When age was included in the model, association also found when obese T2D patients were compared with lean NGT subjects (P 1⁄4 0.041). ADRA2A mRNA expression in human pancreatic islets was detectable, but with no statistically significant difference between the diabetic and the control groups. Conclusions: ADRA2A genetic polymorphisms are mainly associated with obesity and possibly with T2D in a Swedish population.
Gum Acacia supplementation improves adiponectin levels and HbA1c/adiponectin ratio in women with type 2 diabetes: A randomized controlled trial
(Functional Foods in Health and Disease, 2025) Babiker, Rasha; Ali, Ibrahim Abdelrhim; Merghani, Tarig H.; Banaga, Amin SI; Hashim, Nada Tawfig; Ahmed, Mohammed Seed; Saeed, Amal M.
ABSTRACT Background: Adiponectin contributes to the regulation of glucose homeostasis and lipid profiles and plays a role in maintaining average body weight. At high serum concentrations, adiponectin sensitizes cells to insulin and exerts favorable effects on type 2 diabetes patients. Gum Acacia (GA) has shown beneficial impacts on serum glucose and lipid profile in both humans and animals. This study aimed to test the effects of oral GA consumption on serum adiponectin levels, glycemic parameters, and the glycosylated hemoglobin/adiponectin ratio in diabetic women. Methods: Seventy-three diabetic women (type 2) with an HbA1c ≥ 6.5% were participated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. The intervention group (34 patients) received 30.0 g per day of GA, whereas the control group (39 patients) received 5.0 g of placebo per day. The intervention period was 12 weeks. Participants were interviewed and examined clinically before, during and after the intervention. The parameters analyzed before and after the intervention were BMI, serum adiponectin, fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, and the HbA1c/adiponectin ratio. Results: Before the intervention, the mean age was 49±1.1 years, BMI was 28.3±0.6 kg/m2, HbA1c was 8.8±0.3%, adiponectin was 5.4±0.12 µg/ml, and the HbA1c/Adiponectin ratio was 1.8±0.06. All baseline parameters showed nonsignificant differences between the intervention and placebo groups. Following GA administration, both BMI and HbA1c were significantly reduced by 2.5% and 3.8%, respectively. The mean serum adiponectin level significantly increased by 7.4% from baseline in the GA group. The mean change in the HbA1c/adiponectin ratio was 0.3 µg/ml following the intervention (P < 0.01). Compared to that in the placebo group, the HbA1c/adiponectin ratio significantly decreased by 16.6% from baseline in the GA group versus an insignificant increase of 25.2% in the placebo group. Conclusions: Gum Acacia consumption improved the glycemic profile and increased the serum adiponectin concentration in diabetic women at a dosage of 30.0 g/day for three months. This study uniquely explores the impact of Gum Acacia (GA) on serum adiponectin levels and the HbA1c/adiponectin ratio in type 2 diabetic women. Demonstrating a significant increase in adiponectin and a reduction in the HbA1c/adiponectin ratio following GA supplementation, this study provides novel insights into GA's potential as a dietary intervention for improving glycemic control in diabetic populations.
Gum Arabic as a potential candidate in quorum quenching and treatment of periodontal diseases
(Frontiers in Oral Health, 2024) Hashim, Nada Tawfig; Babiker, Rasha; Rahman, Mohammed Mustahsen; Chaitanya, Nallan C. S. K.; Mohammed, Riham; Dasnadi, Shahistha Parveen; Gismalla, Bakri Gobara
Periodontal diseases are chronic inflammatory conditions influenced by bacterial biofilm formation and host immune responses, affecting millions worldwide. Traditional treatments like mechanical debridement and systemic antibiotics often face limitations, including biofilm resilience and antibiotic resistance. Gum Arabic (GA), a natural exudate from Acacia trees, presents a promising alternative with its anti-biofilm and anti-inflammatory properties. This review highlights the role of GA in periodontal therapy, particularly its ability to interfere with quorum sensing (QS) pathways, specifically the AI-2 signaling system used by key periodontal pathogens such as Porphyromonas gingivalis, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, andFusobacterium nucleatum. By disrupting QS, GA inhibits biofilm formation, reduces bacterial virulence, and promotes a balanced oral microbiome. GA’s prebiotic properties also encourage the growth of beneficial bacteria, enhancing the host’s immune response while preserving the systemic microbiome. Clinical studies demonstrate GA’s effectiveness as an adjunct in periodontal therapy, with significant reductions in plaque accumulation, gingival inflammation, and bleeding. This highlights GA’spotential as a natural therapeutic agent, offering an effective, antibiotic-sparing option in managing periodontal disease. However, further research is warranted to fully establish GA’s role in comprehensive periodontal care and its long-term benefits.