Universal Journal of Pharmaceutical Research

Message

2026-03-05T18:33:06+00:00

During my time as a reviewer for the Universal Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, I have had an important learning experience, provided by the authors, colleagues, and the Editor-in-Chief, to whom I am grateful for the trust and encouragement to carry forward this endeavor, which presents requirements to expand indexing to international scientific databases. This merit has been achieved by the team together with the editorial board, which develops intense and successful work.

I recognize the competent work developed, which allows for streamlining the flow, analysis, and editorial decision-making of manuscripts. My sincere thanks to everyone.

I am very grateful for the recognition of my contribution as a reviewer for the Universal Journal of Pharmaceutical Research. Reviewing for this journal is a continuous learning experience, and I am happy to be able to support the dissemination of quality science.

Best wishes,

INCIDENCE AND PATTERNS OF MAXILLOFACIAL FRACTURES IN PEDIATRIC AND ADULT PATIENTS: A TEN YEAR RETROSPECTIVE STUDY

2026-03-05T18:37:25+00:00

Background and aims: Treatment for maxillofacial fractures, which affect the mandible, maxilla, zygomatic bone, and nose, depends on the form and severity of the injury. In order to manage complicated patients needing closed reduction or open reduction and internal fixation, university hospitals such as Al-Thawra General Modern Hospital in Sana'a employ cutting-edge surgical procedures and interdisciplinary care. The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate related fracture types and aetiology, as well as the types and treatments of maxillofacial fractures among patients sent to the Al-Thawra General Modern Hospital in Sana'a.

Materials and methods: This retrospective investigation looked at the data of 1141 patients, ages 3 to 60, which had maxillofacial fractures between January 2014 and December 2023. Age, gender, the site and aetiology of the fracture, and the course of therapy were all taken from the historical records and analysed.

Results: Males constituted 78.7% and females 21.3% of the population studied. Among children, males were 77.74% and females 22.26%, with a mean age of 10.4 years, primarily in the 11–15-year age group (56.1%). In adults, males made up 79.1% and females 20.9%, with a mean age of 26.1 years, predominantly aged 16–25 years (60.6%). The primary causes of fractures were road traffic accidents (56.1%), falls from heights (22.5%), and assaults (13.3%). In an alternate dataset, traffic accidents were noted at 50%. Mandible fractures were the most frequent, accounting for 31.4% of cases, followed by zygomatic (17.2%) and condylar fractures (8.9%).

Conclusions: The majority of victims of maxillofacial fractures and injuries in the child and adult categories were males between the ages of 16 and 25. Traffic accidents, falls from heights, and attacks were the main causes of fractures. Zygomatic and condylar fractures were the next most common, after mandibular fractures.

Peer Review History:

Received 4 December 2025; Reviewed 17 January 2026; Accepted 15 February; Available online 15 March 2026

Academic Editor: Dr. Ahmad Najib, Universitas Muslim Indonesia, Indonesia, ahmad.najib@umi.ac.id

Reviewers:

Dr. Alfonso Alexander Aguileral, University of Veracruz, Mexico, aalexander_2000@yahoo.com

Ahmed Tagelsir Mohamed Ali, National University, Sudan, ahmedtagelsir7@hotmail.com

FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF FAST DISSOLVING HERBAL FILM CONTAINING RESERPINE FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF PULMONARY ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION

2026-03-06T08:07:26+00:00

Background and Objectives: Pulmonary arterial hypertension is a progressive disease of the pulmonary vasculature that is defined by a high pulmonary vascular resistance, which ultimately causes a failure of the right heart. Reserpine is a biologically active compound that is derived from Rauwolfia serpentina. It is known for its potent antihypertensive activity. Therefore, reserpine can be considered a new way of treating pulmonary arterial hypertension. The objectives of the study were to formulate and evaluate the Fast Dissolving Films (FDF) of reserpine using the newly developed polymeric delivery system.

Methods: Reserpine FDFs were prepared using hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose K-15 as the polymeric film former and propylene glycol as the plasticizer using the solvent casting method. Various physicochemical parameters like pH, weight variation, folding endurance, disintegration time, content uniformity, and in vitro dissolution were carried out. Compatibility analysis was carried out using FT-IR. Compatibility between the drug and the polymer was analyzed using Differential Scanning Calorimetry.

Results: These films were transparent, flexible, strong, evenly 0.12-0.17mm thick, with surface pH range compatible with that of the oral cavity (6.0-6.7). The values of folding endurance were above 50 cycles, which shows very strong tensile strength. The disintegration time ranges from 15-66 sec, with the optimized formula (F6) having 97.5% release of the drug in 40 minutes. The DSC scans showed molecular distribution of reserpine with slight reduction of the drug's peak at 63.90°C, thus ensuring the drug is dissolved without degrading to ensure increased bioavailability.

Conclusion: The FTIR spectrogram proves that reserpine is chemically stable in the polymer matrix. Prepared films possess the optimal physico-chemical properties, disintegration times, and dissolution profiles. Hence, the formulation approach demonstrates immense promise for the systemic delivery of the herbal antihypertensive in the treatment of PAH.

Peer Review History:

Received 22 December 2025; Reviewed 9 January 2026; Accepted 17 February; Available online 15 March 2026

Academic Editor: Dr. A.A. Mgbahurike, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria, amaka_mgbahurike@yahoo.com

Reviewers:

Dr. Mrinal Kanti Bhoumik, Jubilant Cadista Pharmaceutical Inc., mrinal_bhoumik@yahoo.com

Dr. Neelam H. Zaidi, Fiji National University, Fiji, drneelamzaidi@gmail.com

ASSESSING BONE HEALING IN PATIENTS WITH VARIOUS TYPES OF FACIAL BONE FRACTURES BY EVALUATING BONE BIOCHEMICAL MARKERS IN CONJUNCTION WITH RADIOGRAPHIC FINDINGS

2026-03-06T09:12:20+00:00

Background and aims: When a bone fracture occurs, the bone matrix is damaged and destroyed, cells die, the periosteum and endosteum rip, and the ends of the broken bone may move. Cascades of biological processes are necessary for bone development and healing. Numerous biological indicators found in blood and tissue fluids may be helpful in assessing how well bone mending is going. By analysing bone biochemical indicators in connection to radiographic results, this study aims to assess bone healing in patients with various forms of facial bone fractures.

Patients and methods: A clinical laboratory study conducted in 2025 at Military Hospital in Sana'a, Yemen, included twenty patients with surgically treated facial bone fractures. The study documented injury types, fracture sites, and treatment methods. Radiographic assessments were performed upon admission and during postoperative follow-ups. Blood samples were collected at zero days, 14, 45, and 90 days for biochemical analysis of alkaline phosphate (ALP) activity, calcium, phosphorus, and c-reactive protein (CRP) levels in serum.

Results: The study comprised 20 patients, predominantly male (80%) with an average age of 37.6 years, mainly suffering fractures from road traffic accidents (85%). The zygomatic bone was most frequently affected (55%). Fracture types included compound (40%), comminuted (35%), and simple (25%). Postoperatively, 80% had open reduction, with nerve injury as the sole complication (10%).

Conclusions: Fracture causes mainly stemmed from road traffic accidents; the zygomatic bone was the most frequently fractured site. Fracture types included compound was the most common, most patients underwent open reduction, and the only complication noted was nerve injury. Serum and biochemical markers can be used for evaluation of progress of bone formation and help clinician to assess the type of treatment.

Peer Review History:

Received 8 December 2025; Reviewed 12 January 2026; Accepted 20 February; Available online 15 March 2026

Academic Editor: Dr. Amany Mohamed Alboghdadly, Ibn Sina National College for Medical Studies in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, amanyalboghdadly@gmail.com

Reviewers:

Dr. George Zhu, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, sansan4240732@163.com

Dr. Hasniza Zaman Huri, University of Malaya Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, hasnizazh@ummc.edu.my

CURRENT INSECTICIDE RESISTANCE STATUS IN Culex quinquefasciatus SAY MOSQUITO POPULATIONS FROM MONO DEPARTMENT IN SOUTH-WESTERN REPUBLIC OF BENIN, WEST AFRICA

2026-03-06T09:22:44+00:00

Background and aims: Culex quinquefasciatus, an important vector in the transmission of human diseases has developed resistance to commonly used classes of insecticides in populations worldwide in public health. The current study was aimed to investigate on the current insecticide resistance status in Culex quinquefasciatus Say mosquito populations from Mono department in South-western Republic of Benin, West Africa.

Methods: Larvae and pupae of Culex quinquefasciatus populations were collected from the breeding sites in Mono department in 2023 during the great rainy season. WHO susceptibility tests were conducted on unfed female mosquitoes aged 2-5 days old. WHO bioassays were performed with impregnated papers of dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) (4%), permethrin (0.75%), deltamethrin (0.05%), fenitrothion (1%) and bendiocarb (0.1%).

Results: The results showed Culex quinquefasciatus mosquito populations were resistant to DDT, permethrin, deltamethrin insecticides. There is possible resistance to fenitrothion and bendiocarb. For that, further studies are needed to detect the real resistance status to these products. There is cross-resistance to both pyrethroid and organochlorine insecticides.

Conclusion: The physical barrier of Long Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs) which are regularly distributed free by Beninese National Malaria Control Program throughout the entire country to increase coverage of LLINs is still important despite the insecticide resistance observed.

Peer Review History:

Received 2 December 2025; Reviewed 6 January 2026; Accepted 18 February; Available online 15 March 2026

Academic Editor: Dr. DANIYAN Oluwatoyin Michael, Obafemi Awolowo University, ILE-IFE, Nigeria, toyinpharm@gmail.com

Reviewers:

Dr. Hatem Sameir Abbas, Al-Azhar University, Egypt, hsam8406@yahoo.com

Dr. Kamal Elbssir Mohammed Ali, Hail University KSA, kamalelbssir999@gmail.com

RETROSPECTIVE ANALYSIS OF 24 SURGICALLY TREATED ZYGOMATICOMAXILLARY COMPLEX FRACTURES USING TWO POINTS VERSUS THREE POINTS TECHNIQUES

2026-03-06T10:35:50+00:00

Background and aims: Mandibular fractures are the most common facial trauma injuries, followed by zygomaticomaxillary complex (ZMC) fractures. The aetiology of these fractures varies greatly between nations and even regions, despite the fact that their occurrence is uniform across geographic boundaries. This study compares the results of two-point versus three-point surgical treatments for ZMC fractures.

Patients and methods: Patients with zygomatico-maxillary complex fractures who received surgical treatment at the Military Hospital in Sana'a, Yemen, in 2025 were the subject of a retrospective analysis. Regarding the two-point and three-point procedures, the patients were split into two groups. Demographic information, aetiology, fracture types location, any facial injuries, kind and timing of repair, were all gathered.

Results: The study involved 24 male patients with zygomatico-maxillary complex fractures, averaging 26.3 years in age, primarily due to road traffic accidents (70.8%). High Intraorbital Rim (IOR) involvement was observed in 95.8% of cases, with complications such as ocular muscle entrapment (33.3%) and inferior orbital nerve (ION) involvement (75%). Periorbital edema (79.2%) and ION paraesthesia (75%) were the most common complications. The three-point fixation technique showed a higher incidence of periorbital edema (100%) and numbness in the inferior oblique nerve (100% versus 50% for the two-point technique), alongside more lower eyelid deformities (83.3% vs 25%),

Conclusions: Road traffic accidents is most common aetiology of zygomatico-maxillary complex fractures, High intraorbital rim (IOR), ocular muscle entrapment , inferior orbital nerve (ION) involvement, Periorbital edema and ION paresthesia were the most common complications.

Peer Review History:

Received 4 December 2025; Reviewed 17 January 2026; Accepted 19 February; Available online 15 March 2026

Academic Editor: Prof. Dr. Gorkem Dulger, Duzce University, Turkey, gorkemdulger@yandex.com

Reviewers:

Dr. Kingsley C Anukam, University of Benin, Nigeria, kanukam@gmail.com

Dr. Leyla Açık, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey, leylaacik@gmail.com

PHYSICOCHEMICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF NATIVE AND ACETYLATED MUCILAGES FROM SELECTED PLANTS FOR POTENTIAL USE IN ORAL FILM FORMULATIONS

2026-03-06T10:52:35+00:00

Background: Natural mucilages have gained attention as sustainable polymeric excipients for oral film formulations due to their biodegradability and availability. However, their practical application is limited by high viscosity and excessive swelling, which negatively affect film casting andperformance. The growing demand for patient-centred and patient-specific dosage forms has increased interest in excipients suitable for sublingual drug delivery, a route that offers improved bioavailability by bypassing the first-pass metabolism. Although natural mucilages have been explored as film-forming matrices, their physicochemical limitations necessitate modification. This study aimed to improve the suitability of selected natural mucilages for oral film formulation through acetylation.

Methods: Native mucilages from Azanza garckeana fruit, Abelmoschus esculentus pods, Cissus populnea stem, Sesamum indicum leaves, and Grewia mollis stem were chemically modified by acetylation, and placebo films prepared by solvent-casting method from both native and acetylated mucilages were evaluated for physicochemical properties

Result: Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed successful acetylation indicated by appearance of ester carbonyl stretching bands and reduced hydroxyl stretching intensity. Acetylation significantly reduced viscosity, swelling index and moisture content compared with native mucilages, while pH values remained within acceptable limits for oral administration. Placebo films prepared from some acetylated mucilages, particularly Grewia and Abelmoschus, exhibited physicochemical properties comparable to those of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose.

Conclusion: Acetylation effectively enhanced the functional properties of the studied mucilages, improving their performance as biodegradable film-forming excipients and supporting their potential use in oral film formulations.

Peer Review History:

Received 2 December 2025; Reviewed 11 January 2026; Accepted 13 February; Available online 15 March 2026

Academic Editor: Dr. Emmanuel O. Olorunsola, Department of Pharmaceutics & Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Uyo, Nigeria, olorunsolaeo@yahoo.com

Reviewers:

Dr. Lucky Llegbosi Nwidu, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria, menelucky@yahoo.com

Dr. Mrinal Kanti Bhoumik, Jubilant Cadista Pharmaceutical Inc., mrinal_bhoumik@yahoo.com

PREVALENCE AND CAUSES OF TOOTH LOSS AMONG YEMENI PATIENTS VISITING THE DENTAL CLINIC AT AL-THAWRA HOSPITAL IN SANA'A CITY, YEMEN

2026-03-06T11:06:11+00:00

Background and objectives: Tooth loss is still a major worldwide issue. In addition to examining potential correlations between tooth loss and various characteristics, including gender, age, educational attainment, and additional risk factors like diabetes, hypertension, khat chewing, and smoking behaviours, the current study sought to determine the causes of tooth extraction.

Subjects and Methods: The retrospective study reviewed 1,955 medical records of patients who had undergone at least one tooth extraction. Patient variables included sex, age, education level, hypertension, diabetes, khat use, and smoking

Results: Males constitute 55% and females 45% of the patient population. The predominant age groups are 18-22 years (30%). A significant majority (92%) have dental caries, primarily affecting 1-5 teeth (69%) and less frequently 6-10 teeth (27%). The decay rates are highest in upper molars (21%), lower molars (25%), and upper premolars (15%). About 13% of patients exhibit tooth mobility, mainly in lower central (26%) and lateral incisors (18%). Tooth loss is reported in 64% of patients, predominantly affecting 1-9 teeth (91%), with upper molars (26%) being the most lost, followed by lower molars (24%). The study identifies tooth decay as the primary cause of tooth loss (47%), followed by a combination of tooth decay and periodontal disease (38%) and periodontal disease alone (10%).

Conclusion: This study found that tooth loss was prevalent among participants, particularly involving upper molars. Key risk factors included advanced age (30+ years), male sex, and systemic diseases, with notably higher rates of tooth loss linked to dental caries and periodontal diseases.

Peer Review History:

Received 6 December 2025; Reviewed 11 January 2026; Accepted 14 February; Available online 15 March 2026

Academic Editor: Dr. Iman Muhammad Higazy, National Research Center, Egypt, imane.higazy@hotmail.com

Reviewers:

Dr. Nada Farrag, Misr International University, Egypt, Nada_Hazem87@hotmail.com

Dr. Nicola Micale, University of Messina, Italy, nmicale@unime.it

EXPLORING THE IMPACT OF GENETICS IN THE DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT OF THALASSEMIA: A NARRATIVE REVIEW

2026-03-06T14:38:03+00:00

Thalassemia refers to a collection of inherited hemoglobin disorders resulting from mutations in the α- or β-globin genes, which causes impaired hemoglobin production and a range of clinical symptoms. Grasping the genetic foundations of thalassemia is crucial for precise diagnosis, risk assessment, and the creation of tailored treatment plans. This narrative review seeks to examine the influence of genetics on the identification and treatment of thalassemia, emphasizing progress in molecular diagnostics, treatment strategies, and new gene-targeted therapies. An extensive literature review was performed utilizing PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar to locate research on the genetics of thalassemia, molecular diagnosis, treatment approaches, and gene therapy. Both original research and review articles published in English until October 2025 were included. Essential themes were identified and categorized into genetic mechanisms, diagnostic instruments, treatment methods, and future perspectives. Genetic knowledge has revolutionized thalassemia treatment, allowing for accurate mutation identification, strategic transfusion preparation, and focused therapies. Molecular methods like PCR, MLPA, and next-generation sequencing enable precise diagnosis and identification of carriers. Progress in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and gene therapy, featuring lentiviral and CRISPR/Cas9 techniques, presents possible curative solutions. Genetic modifiers, including co-inherited α-thalassemia and polymorphisms that promote fetal hemoglobin, greatly affect disease severity and treatment needs. Incorporating genetic insights into clinical practice improves the diagnosis and tailored treatment of thalassemia. New gene-based therapies offer hope for cures, and continuing research on genetic modifiers can enhance patient results. This review offers an extensive framework connecting genetic mechanisms to current and emerging therapeutic approaches.

Peer Review History:

Received 22 December 2025; Reviewed 9 January 2026; Accepted 17 February; Available online 15 March 2026

Academic Editor: Dr. Jennifer Audu-Peter, University of Jos, Nigeria, drambia44@gmail.com

Reviewers:

Dr. Nuray Arı, Ankara University, Turkiye, ari@ankara.edu.tr

Dr. Peter Juma Ochieng, Biotech Research Center (BRC), Obuda University, Hungary, peter26juma@gmail.com

CHRONOPHARMACOVIGILANCE: TIME-DEPENDENT PATTERNS OF ADVERSE DRUG REACTIONS AND THEIR REGULATORY IMPLICATIONS

2026-03-06T14:48:42+00:00

Chronopharmacology is the study of the effects of biological rhythms, especially circadian rhythms, on pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of drugs and their therapeutic efficacy and safety. The rhythmic nature of physiological functions like hormone secretion, enzymatic activity, gastrointestinal function, renal clearance, cardiovascular function, and immune response plays an important role in governing the temporal profiles of absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of drugs. There is increasing evidence that adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are not randomly timed but rather follow a predictable pattern with a close association with biological clocks. Therefore, the onset of medication can have a profound effect on either the occurrence or intensity of ADRs. This review focuses on the issue of time-dependent patterns of ADRs in the integrated framework of chrono-pharmacology and chronopharmacovigilance. It outlines the mechanistic explanations provided by circadian biology to time-dependent patterns of drug safety and clinical evidence of time-dependent differences in the occurrence of ADRs in a broad range of therapeutic classes. The data underscores the challenges of conventional pharmacovigilance where biological timing is not considered as a drug-related risk factor. The review also delves into the implications that time-dependent patterns of ADRs have on pharmacovigilance and regulation. The use of time-dependent variables in drug safety monitoring, trial designs, and risk management plans may enable better signal detection and improved benefit-risk assessments. The use of chronopharmacological concepts in regulatory science can, therefore, facilitate the development of personalized medicine, where the dosing regimen will be optimized for safety. It can, therefore, be concluded that the appreciation of temporal variability in ADRs is an important milestone in more accurate drug safety profiling.

Peer Review History:

Received 7 December 2025; Reviewed 11 January 2026; Accepted 13 February; Available online 15 March 2026

Academic Editor: Dr. Marwa A. A. Fayed, University of Sadat City, Egypt, maafayed@gmail.com

Reviewers:

Dr. Rana Ahmed MohamedEl-Saied El-Fitiany, Ahram Canadian University, Giza, Egypt, marmarelfitiany@gmail.com

Rusmir Baljic, Clinic for infectious diseases, Clinical center University of Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. rusmir.baljic@gmail.com

IMMUNE AGING IN THE YOUNG: CONSEQUENCES OF HIV-INDUCED SENESCENCE IN CHILDREN

2026-03-06T14:59:07+00:00

The immune systems of children that are still developing are particularly susceptible to being affected by long-lasting infections like HIV. Children infected perinatally show indications of immune aging or immune senescence significantly sooner than their uninfected counterparts, even with the prompt start of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART). This rapid aging process is marked by persistent immune activation, thymic impairment, disrupted hematopoiesis, and the premature buildup of senescent and weary immune cells. These changes jeopardize immune function during a vital period of growth and development. At the heart of HIV-related senescence in children is the ongoing condition of systemic inflammation and immune imbalance, despite the presence of viral suppression. Thymic involution diminishes the production of naïve T-cells, whereas telomere shortening and increased levels of senescence markers like p16^INK4a and PD-1 indicate cellular tiredness. These immunological changes have significant clinical consequences, including heightened vulnerability to infections, insufficient vaccine efficacy, and premature development of non-AIDS-related comorbidities like cardiovascular and neurocognitive issues.

Peer Review History:

Received 6 December 2025; Reviewed 11 January 2026; Accepted 13 February; Available online 15 March 2026

Academic Editor: Dr. Sally A. El-Zahaby, Pharos University in Alexandria, Egypt, sally.elzahaby@yahoo.com

Reviewers:

Dr. Sabah Hussien El-Ghaiesh, Tanta University, Egypt, s.ghaiesh@gmail.com

Dr. Sameh Abdelmoneem Mohammed Ali, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Egypt, same7_pharma18@yahoo.com

MENTZER INDEX IN EARLY BREAST CANCER: A LOW-COST DIAGNOSTIC INSIGHT INTO ANEMIA PATTERNS

2026-03-06T15:04:34+00:00

Anemia continues to be one of the most common and overlooked complications in early breast cancer, caused by inflammation related to tumors, iron storage, and treatment-induced suppression of the bone marrow. Determining the root cause of anemia is essential for enhancing treatment and improving patient results. This review examines the potential diagnostic significance of the Mentzer index a ratio of mean corpuscular volume to red blood cell count as a straightforward, affordable method for distinguishing anemia patterns in early breast cancer. Historically utilized to differentiate iron deficiency anemia from thalassemia trait, recent findings indicate that MI might also represent the erythropoietic and inflammatory changes linked to malignancy. A narrative review method was utilized, consolidating existing literature (2015–2024) regarding the mechanisms of anemia in breast cancer, red blood cell indices, and biomarkers for iron metabolism. Research from PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar was evaluated to investigate the diagnostic and pathophysiological connections between the Mentzer index and anemia associated with cancer. Results show that increased MI values in early breast cancer frequently relate to functional iron deficiency due to hepcidin-induced iron blockage and inflammation-related suppression of erythropoiesis. On the other hand, low or normal MI levels might indicate mixed or nutritional anemia conditions. Incorporating MI with biomarkers like ferritin, transferrin saturation, and red cell distribution width improves diagnostic accuracy, especially in resource-constrained environments. The Mentzer index, while rooted in tradition, could offer a significant hematologic insight into anemia types in early breast cancer, enabling personalized interventions and enhanced treatment preparedness.

Peer Review History:

Received 4 December 2025; Reviewed 11 January 2026; Accepted 13 February; Available online 15 March 2026

Academic Editor: Dr. Tamer Elhabibi, Suez Canal University, Egypt, tamer_hassan@pharm.suez.edu.eg

Reviewers:

Dr. Taiwo O Elufioye, University of Ibadan, Nigeria, toonitaiwo@yahoo.com

Dr. Tanveer Ahmed Khan, Hajvery University, Lahore, Pakistan, tanveerahmedkhan754@gmail.com

THE ROLE OF AFRICAN UNIVERSITIES AND RESEARCH INSTITUTIONS IN ADVANCING SICKLE CELL DISEASE INNOVATION: A PERSPECTIVE

2026-03-06T15:09:15+00:00

Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) remains one of the most prevalent genetic disorders in Africa, contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality across the continent. African universities and research institutions have emerged as key players in advancing innovation to combat this burden through focused research, capacity building, and policy advocacy. Their localized efforts are essential in addressing the unique genetic, environmental, and socio-economic factors influencing SCD in African populations. These institutions have made substantial contributions in understanding the molecular genetics of SCD, conducting epidemiological studies, and leading clinical trials tailored to local contexts. Additionally, they play a crucial role in training healthcare professionals and researchers, thereby strengthening the continent’s capacity to provide effective care and develop novel therapeutic approaches. Collaborative research networks and dedicated centers further accelerate innovation, facilitating the translation of scientific discoveries into practical interventions such as newborn screening and point-of-care diagnostics.

Peer Review History:

Received 4 December 2025; Reviewed 17 January 2026; Accepted 15 February; Available online 15 March 2026

Academic Editor: Dr. Muhammad Zahid Iqbal, AIMST University, Malaysia, drmmziqbal@gmail.com

Reviewers:

Dr. Vanina Doris Edo’o, University of Yaounde I, Yaounde, Cameroun, vanina_edoo@yahoo.com

Dr. Wilman Ismael Carrillo Terán, Technical University of Ambato Avda, Ecuador, wilmanct@gmail.com

MOLECULAR CROSSTALK BETWEEN HYPOXIA INDUCIBLE FACTORS AND SICKLE CELL PATHOGENESIS: A NARRATIVE REVIEW

2026-03-06T15:25:16+00:00

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a hereditary hemoglobin disorder marked by the polymerization of deoxygenated sickle hemoglobin (HbS), causing vaso-occlusion, hemolysis, and persistent inflammation, leading to substantial morbidity and mortality. Recent studies have found hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) to be crucial regulators in cellular reactions to low oxygen conditions, commonly seen in different tissues impacted by SCD. The activation of HIFs is essential in regulating erythropoiesis, vascular stability, and inflammation, which are all key to the pathophysiology of SCD. This review examines the molecular interactions between HIFs and essential disease processes, emphasizing their role in the intricate clinical presentations of SCD. HIFs, especially HIF-1, control various genes that play a role in erythropoiesis and the vascular reaction to low oxygen levels. In SCD, the rise in tissue hypoxia worsens erythropoietic dysregulation and leads to the atypical generation of sickled red blood cells, which are susceptible to early hemolysis. Moreover, HIFs stimulate inflammatory pathways by increasing the production of cytokines and adhesion molecules, resulting in endothelial dysfunction and microvascular blockages. The resulting inflammatory reaction drives a harmful cycle of blood vessel harm and organ injury, which is characteristic of complications in SCD.

Peer Review History:

Received 22 December 2025; Reviewed 9 January 2026; Accepted 17 February; Available online 15 March 2026

Academic Editor: Dr. Essam Mohamed Eissa, Beni-Suef University, Egypt, dressamceutics@yahoo.com

Reviewers:

Dr. Essam Mohamed Eissa, Beni-Suef – 32 Tahrir St, Egypt, dressamceutics@yahoo.com

Dr. Julie Ann S. Ng, Blk 18 Lot 6 Grandville 3 Subdivision Mansilingan, Bacolod City, Philippines. julieann_ng@yahoo.com

IMPROVING MALARIA PREVENTION IN IMMUNOCOMPROMISED GROUPS: A PUBLIC HEALTH IMPERATIVE IN AFRICA

2026-03-06T15:36:45+00:00

Malaria remains a major public health challenge in Africa, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations, especially immunocompromised groups such as individuals living with HIV/AIDS, malnourished children, and patients undergoing immunosuppressive therapies. These populations are at increased risk of malaria infection, experience more severe disease manifestations, and face poorer treatment outcomes due to compromised immune function. Despite significant advances in malaria control, existing prevention strategies often do not adequately address the unique needs of immunocompromised individuals. This review explores the pathophysiological interplay between malaria and immunosuppression, highlighting how immune deficits exacerbate susceptibility and severity of malaria infections. Current malaria prevention measures—including vector control, chemoprophylaxis, and health education—are assessed with a focus on their applicability and limitations in immunocompromised populations. Key barriers such as health system fragmentation, socio-economic constraints, and emerging insecticide and drug resistance are identified as critical challenges that undermine prevention efforts. To reduce the disproportionate malaria burden in immunocompromised groups, the review advocates for integrated healthcare services, targeted vector control, expanded prophylactic interventions, and enhanced community engagement. Strengthening research and surveillance will inform tailored, evidence-based policies. Ultimately, a comprehensive and collaborative public health approach is essential to safeguard the health of Africa’s most vulnerable populations and accelerate progress toward malaria elimination.

Peer Review History:

Received 1 December 2025; Reviewed 12 January 2026; Accepted 17 February; Available online 15 March 2026

Academic Editor: Prof. Cyprian Ogbonna ONYEJI, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria, conyeji@oauife.edu.ng

Reviewers:

Noha El Baghdady, MTI University, Cairo, Egypt, nohasalah21@yahoo.com

Prof. Gorkem Dulger, Duzce University, Turkey, gorkemdulger@yandex.com