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Objectives To characterize high-risk HPV types associated with cervical precancerous lesions in women living in Yaounde, Cameroon, and to determine their distribution with HIV status. Methods Women with abnormal pap smears recorded from February 2015 to May 2019 at Saint Martin de Porres' Health Centre, Yaounde, Cameroon, were recruited in this study after obtaining informed consent. Pap smears were collected and re-examined. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) serology was determined. HPV16, 18, 33, and 45 were assessed using standard PCR. Results All included participants (370) were HPV-positive and had either low grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (67.03%) or high grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (31.35%). They were subdivided into HIV-positive (N =102) and HIV-negative (N =268). In the HIV-negative subgroup, we observed 66.04% HPV16-positve, 41.79% HPV18-positve, 21.27% HPV33-positve and 8.21% HPV45-positve. In the HIV-positive subgroup, we observed 22.55% HPV16-positve, 5.88% HPV18-positve, 75.49% HPV33-positve, and 49.02% HPV45-positve. Married HIV-positive participants (47.14 ± 1.19) were older than both their single counterparts (34.94±1.22, P = 0.0008) and HIV-negative participants (41.43 ± 0.79, P = 0.0001). Single HIV-positive women reported higher numbers of miscarriages (P = 0.0023), and had later first sexual intercourse than HIV-negative (P = 0.0079) women. Conclusion Our study suggested differential expressions in high-risk HPV types with HIV status and cervical precancerous lesions and warrants more extensive studies.

Introduction: The high mortality rate of prostate cancer in Cameroon, its high incidence, its prevalence, the lack of epidemiological data for the north which for the case is the poorest area of the country led us to conduct this study with for the purpose of presenting the epidemiological, clinical and para-clinical aspects, the cost and means of management with a view to setting up adequate management policies. Patients and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional analytical study in the city of Ngaoundéré for a period of 5months. The data were obtained after a survey of patients and collection of results from the pathology registry of the Islamic clinic of Adamawa three months before the start of our study. Results: The prevalence and incidence of prostate cancer were 28.7% and 24.32%, respectively. The average age of prostate cancer patients was 66.5 years. Gleason scores were less than 6 in 44.44% of cases. Risk factors related to familial cancer cases were difficult to determine. The symptoms were dominated in patients by urinary retention associated with polyuria, dysuria and pollakiuria. The means and costs of care were scalable depending on the difficulty of achieving the technique.Conclusion: Prostate cancer remains a real health problem in the north because of its incidence and high prevalence and requires the implementation of a government policy of care.

Background: Cervical cancer is a major cause of women death worldwide. The reduction of the mortality and morbidity of this pathology depends on the early detection based on powerful suitable screening methods, that will lead to optimal treatment strategies. However in some rural region of developing countries, it is very difficult to get access to standard screening methods, alternative screening methods, cheaper and easy to handle are then useful. Objective: The aim of this work was to test the sensitivity and specificity of VIA (Visual inspection with acetic acid) and VILI (Visual inspection with lugol iodine) as screening test of cervical cancer compared to the Pap Smear, evaluating the feasibility in health formation in the North Cameroon region, of implementing epidemiological surveillance of cervical cancer based on early diagnosis using the VIA-VILI association Method: 309 women age 20 to 62 years were recruited in this study, 307 were included in the statistical analyzes. Each woman was screened for cervical cancer by a conventional Smear and visual inspection with acetic acid 5% and the lugol solution. Results: We found in our study a prevalence of precancerous lesions of cervix at 12.70%. The risks factors of cervical cancer identified are age, matrimonial status, age of first sexual intercourse and parity. The association of VIA and VILI showed a sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value respectively about 93.58%; 97.01%; 82.01%, 99.04%. Conclusion: Compared to PAP Smear, VIA or VILI could be used as an alternative screening methods for cervical cancer in developing countries. However, histology test was recommended to use a « Gold Standard » to evaluate the test accuracy of VIA/VILI because it can be used to diagnose cancer, while PAP smear cannot.

Background: Due to the late diagnosis, resulting partly from the absence of national screening programs, Cervical cancer is a public health concern for women in Sub-Saharan Africa, where 34 over 100,000 are diagnosed with cervical cancer and 23 over 100,000 die yearly. We evaluated the knowledge and practices of the female population towards the prevention of cervical cancer in the city of Bafoussam, West Cameroon, considering that poor awareness about the disease and its prevention drives its progression in Africa.Methods: 228 women were recruited during a cross-sectional study with simple random selection of participants in two District Health Centres in Bafoussam from February to August 2017. They were administered a questionnaire aimed at asserting their knowledge about cervical cancer, risk factors and prevention. Subsequently, cervicovaginal smears were screened and gynaecological signs were assessed. Data analysis was done using Epi info version 7.2.2.6. with Chi 2 test application.Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.Results: The most represented age group was [25-35] (50.88%). Only 89 participants (39.04%) had heard about cervical cancer, 63 (27.63%) had heard about risk factors with only 13 (5.70%) able to name at least one risk factor. Moreover, 72 participants (31.58%) had heard about cervical screening test, 48 (21.05%) were aware about the existence of means of prevention, and only 6 (2.63%) had heard about human papillomavirus (HPV) relationship to cervical cancer or HPV vaccine. An incidence of 07.63% was obtained. The most common reason reported for not attending cervical cancer screening was ignorance (68.92%). Conclusions: Our data suggest that there is a real need for raising the awareness about cervical cancer and its prevention in the western region of Cameroon.

Background: Cancer incidence has been growing in an alarming rate worldwide and new therapeutics are needed, particularly for intractable and chemoresistant cases. We evaluated the cytotoxic effects of Combretum fragrans F. Hoffm (Combretaceae) on glioblastoma (U87MG and C6) and prostate (PC-3) cancer cell lines. Methods: The cytotoxic effect of the methanolic extract of the stem bark of Combretum fragrans was assessed using XTT (2,3-bis (2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfophenyl)-5-[(phenylamino) carbonyl]-2H-tetrazolium hydroxide) test. Expressions of Akt and ERK1/2 were determined using Western blot technique, while Caspase-3/7 kits were used to evaluate caspase-3/7 activity. Results: C. fragrans extract inhibited the proliferation of U87 (IC50 = 20.13 µg/mL), C6 (IC50 = 12.17 µg/mL), and PC-3 (IC50 = 11.50 µg/mL) cells. Treatment with the extract resulted in lower levels (p < 0.001) of phospho-ERK1/2 and phospho-Akt in U87 cells, and instead, higher levels of phospho-ERK1/2 (p < 0.001) in C6 and PC-3 cells. An increase in caspase-3/7 activity was observed, mainly after 24 hours of treatment, indicating the activation of apoptotic processes. Conclusion: Altogether, these results suggest that C. fragrans have potent anticancer properties. This plant should be further investigated for developing new anticancer drugs.

Due to the lack of hospitals with adequate technical platform on one hand, and high diagnostic costs that cannot be afforded most of the population, the incidence of prostate cancer in Cameroon has increased and has great impact on people’s health. Aim: This work was undertaken with the objective to determine the impact of prostate cancer on erectile dysfunction and how to manage it. Methodology: Sampling of the population was done in a comprehensive and non-probabilistic manner at the Urology Department of Ngaoundere Islamic Hospital, Ngaoundere, Cameroon, between June 2018 and November 2019. Of the 75 patients received, 50 of them participated in this study. Biopsies were taken from these patients to determine and confirm the form and stage of cancer followed by PSA assays. After the diagnosis was revealed, the testosterone assay was carried out in order to evaluate erectile functioning in the patients who equally completed a survey form made available to them in order to get an idea of their health history, the type of treatment followed and their lifestyle. Results: The mean age of the patients was 67 years, with a predominance in the 60-70 age range. 85% of the patients had a Gleason score greater than or equal to 8. Of these patients, 42% had low testosterone levels (< 2.3 ng/mL), resulting to lack of morning erection (66.6%), loss of sexual desire (43.9%), difficulty having a spontaneous erection (88%). On the other hand, erectile dysfunction was revealed in the prostate cancer patients with low testosterone levels, with a history of hypertention (16.6%), diabetes (28.5%) alcohol consumption (44%), tobacco smoking (41%) and having undergone as prostate cancer treatment involving transurethral resection of the prostate (80%) and orchiectomy (20%). Conclusion: The major cause of erectile dysfunction observed in patients suffering from prostate cancer in Northen Cameroon can be attributed to the evolution of the disease, as well as the health history of the patients (diabetes, hypertension).

Background: Breast cancer, the deadliest cancer in women worldwide, is often diagnosed at late stage in Cameroon, with high mortality and dire socioeconomic consequences. We investigated the reasons for breast cancer late diagnosis in Cameroon. Methods: Women (412) were randomly recruited in various locations in the city of Bafoussam, West Region, Cameroon. They self-administered a questionnaire assessing breast cancer awareness. Then, they underwent breast palpation, followed by fine needle aspiration (FNA) when a nodule was found. Results: 65% of the study participants were above 30 years; 80.9% had at least a secondary education; 94.4% had heard about breast cancer and the main source of information was the media (57.3%). Most participants were either uninformed or ill-informed (up to 72%) about breast cancer risk factors, signs, and screening methods, in particular breast self-examination (BSE). Of the 17 women with nodules and other suspect signs, only 6 accepted fine needle aspiration (FNA). Three of the 6 had malignant nodules indicative of Invasive ductal carcinoma low grade (one case) and high grade (2 cases).Conclusions: Women living in Bafoussam are poorly aware of breast cancer screening methods, in particular BSE, and of the importance of early detection. BSE followed by FNA in women with nodules is a simple, yet good screening method to improve early detection and reduce the burden of breast cancer.

Introduction Late diagnosis has been observed as the hallmark of breast cancer in Cameroonian women where over 70% of patients report with either stage III or IV of the disease, with high mortality and dire socioeconomic consequences. The present study was undertaken to assess the awareness of breast cancer, warning signs and screening methods among Health professionals and general population of Douala. Methods Participants included in this study were health practitioners and women randomly selected and enrolled in six health facilities in the city of Douala, Littoral Region, Cameroon. A self-administered questionnaire was designed for each group and aimed at assessing their knowledge about breast cancer, warning signs and screening practices. Then, 616 women underwent breast palpation, followed by fine needle aspiration (FNA) when a nodule was found. Results Out of a total of 737 participants (121 health personnel and 616 women) interviewed, a majority (96.3%) were aware of the disease with the main source of information being the hospital (76.0%), media (47.1%) and vocational training schools (45.4%) for health personnel; medias (39.9%), health professionals (26.1%) and their entourage (21.9%) for the population. Health workforce presented suitable awareness of the risk factors for breast cancer and its clinical signs even though 37.1% of them had misconceptions and myth-based ideas on the origin of the disease. Both the population and health personnel were aware of the possibility of early screening for breast cancer and cited breast self-examination, clinical breast examination and mammography as screening techniques. Nonetheless, screening practice amongst all women is very poor and mainly due to ignorance, high cost of mammography, together with a lack of mastery of the BSE technique and the fear of actually discovering signs of the disease. Conclusion Our findings show lack of awareness and low practice of breast cancer screening amongst women in Douala and highlight the need to raise awareness and provide the right information to the public for early detection of breast cancer., Breast cancer awareness; Screening practices; Fine needle aspiration; Littoral; Cameroon.

Introduction: Various Human papillomavirus (HPV) types cause cervical cancer, and represent the primary cause of cancer death in Africa and the second cause of most common cancers in Cameroon. Herein, we determined the prevalence of high-risk HPV types in women and associated cervical cytologic abnormalities in Yaounde, Cameroon. Methodology: A cross-sectional study targeting HPV-positive women aged 20 and over was conducted between March and June 2020 at the Saint Martin de Porres’ Health Centre in Yaounde. HPV tests were performed by PCR for detection of HPVs 16, 18, 33, and 45. The test was performed on 616 women using exfoliated cell specimens; then, we processed on cytological diagnosis with Pap smears on HPV positive specimens. Results: The HPV types tested were detected in 137 participants, of which 38.7% with multiple HPV infections, and the remaining part with single HPV infections of type HPV 16 (28.5%), HPV 18 (17.5%), HPV 33 (10.2%), and HPV 45 (5.1%). Cervical cytologic abnormalities were found in 69.34% of participants including: LSIL (49.63%), HSIL (15.32%), ASC-US (3.66%) and AGC (0.73%). Co-infections with HPV 16 and HPV 18 were significantly associated with HSIL (p = 0.001) lesions, while HPV 45 was more common in participants with normal cytology (p = 0.001). Cervical lesion occurrence was significantly associated with the number of sexual partners (p = 0.02) and history of oral contraceptive pill use (p = 0.001). Conclusions: Our results suggest that HPV 16 and 18 are predominant in Yaounde, and are associated with more severe precancerous lesions.

Breast cancer has become a real public health problem in Cameroon, particularly in rural areas due to late diagnosis, resulting partly from the absence of national screening programs. This work is aimed at assessing breast cancer awareness in the North Region of Cameroon. Participants were selected in six health centers surrounding the rural area of Garoua, North Region, Cameroon, and administered a questionnaire aimed at assessing their awareness about breast cancer risk factors and screening. Out of the 475 women (including 37 medical personnel) interviewed, 45.5% attended at least secondary school; 91.3% were aware of the disease with the main sources of information from those around them (64.8%), media (46.5%), and health professionals in health facilities (42.7%). 23.3% had misconceptions and myth-based ideas on the origin of the disease. Ignorance was the main reason preventing the performance of breast self-examination, and the high cost prevents individuals from going for mammography. The highest awareness rate was observed in employed women with higher level of education. Our study highlights the need to raise awareness among the populations in North Region, Cameroon, about the risk factors and clinical signs of breast cancer and the importance of screening practice for early diagnosis of breast cancer.

While the alternative transcription and splicing mechanisms have long been known for some genes like oncogenes, their prevalence in almost all multi-exon genes has been recently realized with the increasing application of high-throughput experimental methods, named Next Generation RNA Sequencing (NGS). Henceforth, understanding the regulation of these processes in comparisons between cell types and cancer requests, sensitive and specific bioinformatics as well as bio-statistic approaches, that is, Cufflinks/Cuffdiff, DEXseq and RESEM, detecting gene transcript/isoforms and exons abundance is necessary. Isoforms and exons expression analysis by NGS is complicated by several sources of measurement variability causing numerous statistical defies. Here, with the purpose of minimizing this statistical challenge, we integrated both Cufflinks/Cuffdiff and DEXseq bioinformatics approaches assessing whole alternative splicing (AS) events, focusing on alternative transcripts regulation and their exons modulation respectively, by processing our previous prepared Estrogen Receptor β (Erβ+ and Erβ-) breast cancer (BC) cells, stimulated by estradiol (E2). Results showed that Estradiol (E2) induced Erβ+ BC (Erβ+E2), exhibited dissimilar reply as opposed to the other’s analyzed BC cell lines in terms of intragenic, exons and junction reads count ratio. Relationship analysis between expressed genes and transcript isoforms, suggested a substantial role of alternative promoters in AS event occurrence in Erβ+ BC as opposed to Erβ- BC. Indeed, merging Cufflinks/Cuffdiff and DEXseq approaches, 79 multi-exon genes were detected as statistically differentially modulated (spliced) in Erβ+ hormone induced BC cell line, and around 38% of these spliced genes claimed to be induced by alternative promoters. The present survey discriminated between several cancer specific alternative splicing genes like LIFR a BC metastasis suppressor, PBX1 a pioneer factor defining aggressive Erβ- BC and PHLPP2 a tumor suppressor, as exhibiting significant exon modulation in early AS occurrence in hormone responsive Erβ+ BC exclusively. Although, our findings supported dissimilar reply comparing both Cuflinks/Cuffdiff and DEXseq approaches called AS events, it is noteworthy to underline their relative agreement, evaluating spliced genes functional annotation as well as their complementarity performing whole AS survey. This study therefore proposed the integration between Cufflinks/Cuffdiff and DEXseq tools as a reasonable complementary methodology assessing full AS pattern in hormone responsive Erβ BC cells. Key words: Cufflinks/Cuffdiff, DEXseq, RNA-Seq, alternative splicing (AS), exons, transcript isoforms, estrogen receptor β (ERβ), breast cancer (BC) cells.

After more than a decade of controversy on the role of stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment, the emerging data shed light on pro-tumorigenic and potential anti-cancer factors, as well as on the roots of the discrepancies. We discuss the pro-tumorigenic effects of stromal cells, considering the effects of tumor drivers like hypoxia and tumor stiffness on these cells, as well as stromal cell-mediated adiposity and immunosuppression in the tumor microenvironment, and cancer initiating cells' cellular senescence and adaptive metabolism. We summarize the emerging data supporting stromal cell therapeutic potential in cancer, discuss the possibility to reprogram stromal cells of the tumor microenvironment for anti-cancer effects, and explore some causes of discrepancies on the roles of stromal cells in cancer in the available literature.

// Paul Takam Kamga 1 , Giulio Bassi 1 , Adriana Cassaro 1 , Martina Midolo 1 , Mariano Di Trapani 1 , Alessandro Gatti 1 , Roberta Carusone 1 , Federica Resci 1 , Omar Perbellini 1 , Michele Gottardi 2 , Massimiliano Bonifacio 1 , Armel Herve Nwabo Kamdje 3 , Achille Ambrosetti 1 and Mauro Krampera 1 1 Stem Cell Research Laboratory, Section of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy 2 Division of Hematology, Ca’ Foncello Hospital, Treviso, Italy 3 Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ngaoundere-Cameroon, Cameroon Correspondence to: Mauro Krampera, email: // Keywords : AML, MSC, Notch, chemoresistance Received : February 10, 2016 Accepted : February 25, 2016 Published : March 07, 2016 Abstract Both preclinical and clinical investigations suggest that Notch signalling is critical for the development of many cancers and for their response to chemotherapy. We previously showed that Notch inhibition abrogates stromal-induced chemoresistance in lymphoid neoplasms. However, the role of Notch in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and its contribution to the crosstalk between leukemia cells and bone marrow stromal cells remain controversial. Thus, we evaluated the role of the Notch pathway in the proliferation, survival and chemoresistance of AML cells in co-culture with bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells expanded from both healthy donors (hBM-MSCs) and AML patients (hBM-MSCs*). As compared to hBM-MSCs, hBM-MSCs* showed higher level of Notch1, Jagged1 as well as the main Notch target gene HES1. Notably, hBM-MSCs* induced expression and activation of Notch signalling in AML cells, supporting AML proliferation and being more efficientin inducing AML chemoresistance than hBM-MSCs*. Pharmacological inhibition of Notch using combinations of Notch receptor-blocking antibodies or gamma-secretase inhibitors (GSIs), in presence of chemotherapeutic agents, significant lowered the supportive effect of hBM-MSCs and hBM-MSCs* towards AML cells, by activating apoptotic cascade and reducing protein level of STAT3, AKT and NF-κB. These results suggest that Notch signalling inhibition, by overcoming the stromal-mediated promotion of chemoresistance,may represent a potential therapeutic targetnot only for lymphoid neoplasms, but also for AML.

5-methyl cytosine (5mC) is a key epigenetic mark entwined with gene expression and the specification of cellular phenotypes. Its distribution around gene promoters sets a barrier for transcriptional enhancers or inhibitor proteins binding to their target sequences. As a result, an additional level of regulation is added to the signals that organize the access to the chromatin and its structural components. The tumor suppressor gene RASSF1A is a microtubule-associated and multitasking scaffold protein communicating with the RAS pathway, estrogen receptor signaling, and Hippo pathway. RASSF1A action stimulates mitotic arrest, DNA repair and apoptosis, and controls the cell cycle and cell migration. De novo methylation of the RASSF1A promoter has received much attention due to its increased frequency in most cancer types. RASSF1A methylation is preceded by histones modifications and could represent an early molecular event in cell transformation. Accordingly, RASSF1A methylation is proposed as an epigenetic candidate marker in many cancer types, even though an inverse correlation of methylation and expression remains to be fully ascertained. Some findings indicate that the epigenetic abrogation of RASSF1A can promote the alternative expression of the putative oncogenic isoform RASSF1C. Understanding the complexity and significance of RASSF1A methylation is instrumental for a more accurate determination of its biological and clinical role. The review covers the molecular events implicated in RASSF1A methylation and gene silencing and provides a deeper view into the significance of the RASSF1A methylation patterns in a number of gastrointestinal cancer types.

Objective: To investigate the anticancer and antioxidant potential of methanol bark extract of Ziziphus mauritiana (Z. mauritiana), which is used by traditional healers to cure some cases of cancer in Cameroon. Methods: The methanol crude extract of Z. mauritiana has the antiproliferative activity on four cancer cell lines and its antioxidant activity. The extract was partitioned in five different solvents, and each fraction was tested. The effect of the most antiproliferative fraction on cell cycle was determined. Bio-guided fractionation was performed on the fraction with the highest antiproliferative and the highest antioxidant activities. Results: Z. mauritiana methanol extract was active on all tested cells, and showed promising antioxidant activity. All fractions except hexane fraction were active with the dichloromethane fraction being the most active and showed S and G2-M phase arrest (P

Clinical examinations are accompanied by biological analyzes to guide or confirm the clinical diagnosis. The results of these analyzes are interpreted by comparison with reference values. Studies on the biological norms of Africans are rare if not quasi-nonexistent. The aim of this study was to establish population-specific reference values for biochemical indices serving as renal function biomarkers in adults living in Ngaoundere, Cameroon. 205 presumed healthy subjects (118 women and 87 men) residing in the city of Ngaoundere aged 18 to 50 years from various socio-cultural backgrounds, were included in this study. Blood urea and creatinine were tested under standard conditions. Reference intervals varied between 10-44 mg/dl and 0.6-1.4 mg/dl for urea and creatinine, respectively. Urea mean values (27.93± 8.15 mg/dl) were higher in males in comparison with females (23.56± 7.14 mg/dl) (P= 0.02). Similarly, creatinine mean values (1.11 ± 0.13 mg/dl) were higher in males in comparison with females (0.82± 0.11 mg/dl) (P= 0.04). Also, an increase in uraemia was observed with age. The gender differences for creatinemia and uraemia may be related to anthropometric features differences such as the muscle mass. The increase of uraemia with age could be explained by the increase of poor hygiene, notably the consumption of alcohol, tobacco and meat, which is mostly a male habit. The results of this study may help to a better interpretation of the biochemical indices of African subjects, and avoid errors of appreciation by excess or by default.

In the year 2000, a wide campaign of screening and treatment of the dysplastic lesions of the cervix was initiated in Cameroun. The precancerous lesions of the cervix are the most important demonstration of gynecological infection by the AIDS. As these lesions remain little documented in Cameroun, we carried out a study which the goal was to determine the prevalence of the precancerous lesions among positive AIDS women. It is about a descriptive study with a retrospective collection of data carried out between 2010 and 2016 among 253 positive AIDS women having carried out a consultation in the Hospital complex and University of Yaounde aged from 18 to 80 years. The analysis of the data was essentially carried on: the age, clinical Factors data of risk of the precancerous lesions, anatomo-pathological search of precancerous lesion. AIDS status and/or the catch the antiretroviral one. The Software SPSS was used for the analysis of data. The test of Chi2 for the comparison of the variables. A variable was considered significant if P

Background : Cervical cancer is a major cause of women death worldwide. The reduction of the mortality and morbidity of this pathology depends on the early detection based on powerful suitable screening methods, that will lead to optimal treatment strategies. However in some rural region of developing countries, it is very difficult to get access to standard screening methods, alternative screening methods, cheaper and easy to handle are then useful. Objective : The aim of this work was to test the sensitivity and specificity of VIA (Visual inspection with acetic acid) and VILI (Visual inspection with lugol iodine) as a diagnostic test of cervical cancer compared to the Pap Smear, evaluating the feasibility in health formation in the North Cameroon region, of implementing epidemiological surveillance of cervical cancer based on early diagnosis using the VIA-VILI association Method : 309 women age 20 to 62 years were recruited in this study, 307 were included in the statistical analyzes. Each woman was screened for cervical cancer by a conventional Smear and visual inspection with acetic acid 5% and the lugol solution. Results : We found in our study a prevalence of precancerous lesions of cervix at 12.70%. The risks factors of cervical cancer identified are age, matrimonial status, age of first sexual intercourse and parity. The association of VIA and VILI showed a sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value respectively about 93.58%; 97.01%; 82.01%, 99.04%. Conclusion : Compared to PAP Smear, VIA or VILI could be used as an alternative screening methods for cervical cancer in developing countries, where it is difficult to access to more accurate test such as colposcopy and biopsy.

Cervical cancer is one of the major causes of women death worldwide. The aim of this study was to test the sensitivity and specificity of visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) and visual inspection with lugol iodine (VILI) as a diagnostic test for cervical cancer in comparison with Pap smear in the North Cameroon region. 309 women aged between 20 to 62 years were recruited in this study. 307 were included in the statistical analyzes. Each woman was screened for cervical cancer by a conventional smear and visual inspection with acetic acid 5% and the lugol solution. The prevalence of precancerous lesions of cervix was 12.70%. The risk factors of cervical cancer identified were age, matrimonial status, age of first sexual intercourse, and parity. The association of VIA and VILI showed sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values of 93.58%, 97.01%, 82.01%, and 99.04%, respectively. VIA-VILI were revealed as good screening tests for cervical cancer in the present context. Early detection and treatment of cervical lesions and also faith against the risk factors should help to reduce the mortality and morbidity of this pathology.

Objective: To evaluate the in vivo anti-androgenic, antioxidant activity and anti-estrogenic activities of Eremomastax speciosa (E. speciosa) in order to find new method for fighting against chronic diseases such as cancer. Methods: Evaluations of antiandrogenic and antioxidant activities were carried out on male rate receiving simultaneous daily administration of testosterone and different doses of aqueous extract of E. speciosa, during a period of 10 d. The evaluation of antiestrogenic activity was carried out on mature ovariectomized female rats receiving simultaneous daily administration of estradiol and different doses of extract, for a week. Then reproductive organs were weighted, levels of prostatic acid phosphatase, superoxide dismutase and catalase as well as some hematologic parameters were measured. Results: The treatment significantly reduced (P

Fate determination of neural crest cells is an essential step for the development of different crest cell derivatives. Peripheral glia development is marked by the choice of the neural crest cells to differentiate along glial lineages. The molecular mechanism underlying fate acquisition is poorly understood. However, recent advances have identified different transcription factors and genes required for the complex instructive signaling process that comprise both local environmental and cell intrinsic cues. Among others, at least the roles of Sox10, Notch, and neuregulin 1 have been documented in both in vivo and in vitro models. Cooperative interactions of such factors appear to be necessary for the switch from multipotent neural crest cells to glial lineage precursors in the peripheral nervous system. This review summarizes recent advances in the understanding of fate determination of neural crest cells into different glia subtypes, together with the potential implications in regenerative medicine.

Microbial-triggered inflammation protects against pathogens and yet can paradoxically cause considerable secondary damage to host tissues that can result in tissue fibrosis and carcinogenesis, if persistent. In addition to classical pathogens, gut microbiota bacteria, i.e. a group of mutualistic microorganisms permanently inhabiting the gastrointestinal tract and which plays a key role in digestion, immunity, and cancer prevention, can induce inflammation-associated cancer following the alterations of their microenvironment. Emerging experimental evidence indicates that microbiota members like Escherichia coli and several other genotoxic and mutagenic pathogens can cause DNA damage in various cell types. In addition, the inflammatory response induced by chronic infections with pathogens like the microbiota members Helicobacter spp., which have been associated with liver, colorectal, cervical cancers and lymphoma, for instance, can also trigger carcinogenic processes. A microenvironment including active immune cells releasing high amounts of inflammatory signaling molecules can favor the carcinogenic transformation of host cells. Pivotal molecules released during immune response such as the macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MMIF) and the reactive oxygen and nitrogen species' products superoxide and peroxynitrite, can further damage DNA and cause the accumulation of oncogenic mutations, whereas pro-inflammatory cytokines, adhesion molecules, and growth factors may create a microenvironment promoting neoplastic cell survival and proliferation. Recent findings on the implication of inflammatory signaling pathways in microbial-triggered carcinogenesis as well as the possible role of microbiota modulation in cancer prevention are herein summarized and discussed.

B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), which is the most common lymphoproliferative disorder, displays characteristics consistent with a defect in programmed cell death and exhibit prolonged survival of affected cells in vivo. When recovered from peripheral blood or lymphoid tissues of patients and cultured in vitro, CLL malignant cells rapidly undergo spontaneous apoptosis. CLL B-cells co-culture with different adherent cell types, collectively referred to as stromal cells, induces leukemia cell survival, migration, and drug resistance. In addition, such survival-promoting microenvironments can rescue leukemia cells from cytotoxic therapy, giving way to disease relapse. Quite surprisingly considering that many anti-cancer drugs, including γ-secretase inhibitors, Cyclopamine and Quercetin, were reported to block Notch, Wnt, and Hedgehog anti-apoptotic signaling pathways respectively, the link between the latter anti-apoptotic pathways and bone marrow stromal cells in CLL has been pointed out only recently. Data concerning the pathogenesis of CLL have been critically reviewed in regards to the growing body of evidence indicating deregulations of Notch, Wnt and Hedgehog anti-apoptotic signaling pathways in the stromal microenvironment of affected cells.

Notch signaling pathway regulates many different events of embryonic and adult development; among them, Notch plays an essential role in the onset of hematopoietic stem cells and influences multiple maturation steps of developing lymphoid and myeloid cells. Deregulation of Notch signaling determines several human disorders, including cancer. In the last decade it became evident that Notch signaling plays pivotal roles in the onset and development of T- and B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia by regulating the intracellular molecular pathways involved in leukemia cell survival and proliferation. On the other hand, bone marrow stromal cells are equally necessary for leukemia cell survival by preventing blast cell apoptosis and favoring their reciprocal interactions and cross-talk with bone marrow microenvironment. Quite surprisingly, the link between Notch signaling pathway and bone marrow stromal cells in acute lymphoblastic leukemia has been pointed out only recently. In fact, bone marrow stromal cells express Notch receptors and ligands, through which they can interact with and influence normal and leukemia T- and B-cell survival. Here, the data concerning the development of T- and B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia has been critically reviewed in light of the most recent findings on Notch signaling in stromal microenvironment.

An ethnobotanical survey for a better knowledge of lactogenic plants has been conducted in Cascades region of Burkina Faso. Biological activities of the two most used plants were evaluated. The survey concerned 25 species classified into 22 genera and 19 families. The most represented families were Moraceae, Apocynaceae, Fabaceae-Caesalpinioideae and Malvaceae. The most used species were Euphorbia hirta, Calotropis procera and Ficus sycomorus with respectively 16.98%, 13.21% and 13.21% followed by Ficus platyphylla (9.43%) and Carica papaya, Holarrhena floribunda, Scoparia dulcis, Sorghum bicolor, each with 3.77% of frequency use. Plants organs mostly used for medicinal preparation were leaves, whole plant for herbaceous species, fruits and seeds. The main mode of medicinal preparation was decoction with 60.42% of frequency use. The most route of administration was oral (68.75%). Biological activities evaluation concerned Euphorbia hirta and Calotropis procera which were the most used plants. The acute toxicity of aqueous extracts of Calotropis procera (AECP) and Euphorbia hirta (AEEH) showed a LD50 of 2063 and 603 mg/kg body weight (b.w), respectively. These LD50 values permitted to classify these plants as slightly toxic herbal drugs. The uterotrophic test showed that the AECP and AEEH exhibited estrogenic activity. In conclusion, important medicinal plants in the Cascades region of Burkina Faso were used to stimulate or ameliorate lactation. However further studies must be conducted to confirm the traditional use of these plants.

BACKGROUND Newtonia griffoniana (Mimosaceae) is a Central African rain forest tree, whose bark extracts are used in Cameroonian folk medicine for the treatment of anxiety and sleep disorders. METHODS We evaluated the anxiolytic effects of N. griffoniana stem bark methanol extract and its major isolated constituent 2,3,4-trihydroxybutylpentatriacontanoate (newtonoate) on the elevated plus maze. RESULTS Significant increases in the percentage of entries into open arms were induced by both N. griffoniana extract (100 and 150 mg/kg BW; p

Objective To obtain a scientific basis of the use of plant-derived preparations by many rural people in Cameroon, for their primary health care needs in the treatment of diseases such as cancer. Methods The antiproliferative effect of 11 plants methanol crude extracts on four cancer cells using sulforhodamine-B assay and their antioxidant activities using 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical and nitric oxide radical scavenging ability were investigated. The Ekebergia senegalensis ( E. senegalensis ) and Protea elliotii ( P. elliotii ) extracts were selected based on their antioxidant and anticancer activities, and partition in hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, butanol and methanol was done. Each fraction was submitted to antioxidant and anticancer activities, and the effect of the dichloromethane fraction (the most antiproliferative fraction) on NCI-H460 cell cycle was determined by flow cytometry. Results The most antiproliferative substances were found for the extracts from E. senegalensis, P. elliotii, Terminalia macroptera and Vitellaria paradoxa . Whereas the most antioxidant substances were found for the extracts from Cissus populnea, E. senegalensis, P. elliotii, Terminalia macroptera, Vitellaria paradoxa , and Gardenia aqualla . Dichloromethane fraction of P. elliotii was found to be highly antiproliferative to NCI-H460 cancer cells and showed S phase arrest cell cycle progression. Ethyl acetate n -butanol and methanol fractions showed quite strong antioxidant activity for both E. senegalensis and P. elliotii , as compared to that of gallic acid. Conclusions Overall, the antiproliferative and antioxidant activities of some of the extracts lend some support to their use in the traditional medicine of Adamawa Region, Cameroon to treat cancer.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide. Understanding the biology of this malignant disease is a prerequisite for selecting an appropriate treatment. Cell cycle alterations are seen in many cancers, including breast cancer. Newly popular targeted agents in breast cancer include cyclin dependent kinase inhibitors (CDKIs) which are agents inhibiting the function of cyclin dependent kinases (CDKs) and agents targeting proto-oncogenic signaling pathways like Notch, Wnt, and SHH (Sonic hedgehog). CDKIs are categorized as selective and non-selective inhibitors of CDK. CDKIs have been tried as monotherapy and combination therapy. The CDKI Palbocyclib is now a promising therapeutic in breast cancer. This drug recently entered phase III trial for estrogen receptor (ER) positive breast cancer after showing encouraging results in progression free survival in a phase II trials. The tumor microenvironment is now recognized as a significant factor in cancer treatment response. The tumor microenvironment is increasingly considered as a target for combination therapy of breast cancer. Recent findings in the signaling pathways in breast cancer are herein summarized and discussed. Furthermore, the therapeutic targeting of the microenvironment in breast cancer is also considered.

Epigenetic alterations represent a key cancer hallmark, even in hematologic malignancies (HMs) or blood cancers, whose clinical features display a high inter-individual variability. Evidence accumulated in recent years indicates that inactivating DNA hypermethylation preferentially targets the subset of polycomb group (PcG) genes that are regulators of developmental processes. Conversely, activating DNA hypomethylation targets oncogenic signaling pathway genes, but outcomes of both events lead in the overexpression of oncogenic signaling pathways that contribute to the stem-like state of cancer cells. On the basis of recent evidence from population-based, clinical and experimental studies, we hypothesize that factors associated with risk for developing a HM, such as metabolic syndrome and chronic inflammation, trigger epigenetic mechanisms to increase the transcriptional expression of oncogenes and activate oncogenic signaling pathways. Among others, signaling pathways associated with such risk factors include pro-inflammatory nuclear factor κB (NF-κB), and mitogenic, growth, and survival Janus kinase (JAK) intracellular non-receptor tyrosine kinase-triggered pathways, which include signaling pathways such as transducer and activator of transcription (STAT), Ras GTPases/mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs)/extracellular signal-related kinases (ERKs), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and β-catenin pathways. Recent findings on epigenetic mechanisms at work in HMs and their importance in the etiology and pathogenesis of these diseases are herein summarized and discussed. Furthermore, the role of epigenetic processes in the determination of biological identity, the consequences for interindividual variability in disease clinical profile, and the potential of epigenetic drugs in HMs are also considered.

Insulin, IGF1, and IGF2 are the most studied insulin-like peptides (ILPs). These are evolutionary conserved factors well known as key regulators of energy metabolism and growth, with crucial roles in insulin resistance-related metabolic disorders such as obesity, diseases like type 2 diabetes mellitus, as well as associated immune deregulations. A growing body of evidence suggests that insulin and IGF1 receptors mediate their effects on regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, glucose transport, and energy metabolism by signaling downstream through insulin receptor substrate molecules and thus play a pivotal role in cell fate determination. Despite the emerging evidence from epidemiological studies on the possible relationship between insulin resistance and cancer, our understanding on the cellular and molecular mechanisms that might account for this relationship remains incompletely understood. The involvement of IGFs in carcinogenesis is attributed to their role in linking high energy intake, increased cell proliferation, and suppression of apoptosis to cancer risks, which has been proposed as the key mechanism bridging insulin resistance and cancer. The present review summarizes and discusses evidence highlighting recent advances in our understanding on the role of ILPs as the link between insulin resistance and cancer and between immune deregulation and cancer in obesity, as well as those areas where there remains a paucity of data. It is anticipated that issues discussed in this paper will also recover new therapeutic targets that can assist in diagnostic screening and novel approaches to controlling tumor development.

Wnts are a family of evolutionary-conserved secreted signaling molecules critically involved in a variety of developmental processes and in cell fate determination. A growing body of evidence suggests that Wnt signaling plays a crucial role in the influence of bone marrow stromal microenvironment on the balance between hematopoietic stem cell self-renewal and differentiation. Emerging clinical and experimental evidence also indicates Wnt signaling involvement in the disruption of the latter balance in hematologic malignancies, where the stromal microenvironment favors the homing of cancer cells to the bone marrow, as well as leukemia stem cell development and chemoresistance. In the present review, we summarize and discuss the role of the canonical Wnt signaling pathway in normal hematopoiesis and hematologic malignancies, with regard to recent findings on the stromal microenvironment involvement in these process and diseases.

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) reside in many organs including lung, as shown by their isolation from fetal lung tissues, bronchial stromal compartment, bronchial-alveolar lavage and transplanted lung tissues. It is still controversial whether lung MSCs can undergo mesenchymal-to-epithelial-transition (MET) and possess immune regulatory properties. To this aim, we isolated, expanded and characterized MSCs from normal adult human lung (lung-hMSCs) and compared with human bone marrow-derived MSCs (BM-hMSCs). Our results show that lung-MSCs reside at the perivascular level and do not significantly differ from BM-hMSCs in terms of immunophenotype, stemness gene profile, mesodermal differentiation potential and modulation of T, B and NK cells. However, lung-hMSCs express higher basal level of the stemness-related marker nestin and show, following in vitro treatment with retinoic acid, higher epithelial cell polarization, which is anyway partial when compared to a control epithelial bronchial cell line. Although these results question the real capability of acquiring epithelial functions by MSCs and the feasibility of MSC-based therapeutic approaches to regenerate damaged lung tissues, the characterization of this lung-hMSC population may be useful to study the involvement of stromal cell compartment in lung diseases in which MET plays a role, such as in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

areas in the body, with a reduced risk of rejection and manageable side effects. These findings have opened new avenues for cell-based cancer therapies, whose majority are at experimental stage. These strategies are providing very encouraging results, particularly in clonal hematopoietic disorders like Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS) where the bloodforming cells damaged in the bone marrow are successfully repaired by Hematopoietic Stem Cell (HSC) transplantation with minimal toxicity and improved quality of life [9]. However, due to the complexity of blood cancer pathogenesis and clinical features also shared by MDS, many patients remain non-eligible for HSC transplantation or do not show any improvement following such treatment [10,11], pointing out the need for more research to understand stem cell behavior upon transplantation, particularly the interactions with the diseased hematopoietic niche.

Although many literature data are available on the role of Notch signaling in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) biology, the importance of this molecular pathway in the development of B-lineage ALL (B-ALL) cells in the BM microenvironment is unknown so far. In this study, we used anti-Notch molecules neutralizing Abs and γ-secretase inhibitor (GSI) XII to investigate the role of the Notch signaling pathway in the promotion of human B-ALL cell survival in presence of stromal cell support. The treatment with combinations of anti-Notch molecule neutralizing Abs resulted in the decrease of B-ALL cell survival, either cultured alone or cocultured in presence of stromal cells from normal donors and B-ALL patients. Interestingly, the inhibition of Notch-3 and -4 or Jagged-1/-2 and DLL-1 resulted in a dramatic increase of apoptotic B-ALL cells by 3 days, similar to what is obtained by blocking all Notch signaling with the GSI XII. Our data suggest that the stromal cell–mediated antiapoptotic effect on B- ALL cells is mediated by Notch-3 and -4 or Jagged-1/-2 and DLL-1 in a synergistic manner.

Background: In sub-Saharan Africa, hypertensive disorders in pregnancy remain a major call for concern owing to their increasing incidence, gravity and associated complications. In Cameroon, the epidemiological reality of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy remains unknown in the majority of regions. Objective: This study aimed to identify the determinants of hypertensive disorders among pregnant women in a hospital milieu in Ngaoundere town. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out at the Ngaoundere Regional Hospital, the reference hospital facility of the Adamawa Region of Cameroon from May to June 2014. Results: In total, 160 pregnant women were examined during the period of study, among which 75 recorded a high blood pressure thus fulfilling our inclusion criteria. Age (P=0.013), previous twin pregnancy (P=0.013) and preeclampsia (P=0.013) were found to be significantly predictive of chronic hypertension. Religion (P=0.004) and multiparity (P=0.001) were identified as significant independent predictive risk factors of preeclampsia, History of preeclampsia (P=0.025) was identified as predictive risk factor for superimposed preeclampsia. Conclusion: Independent predisposing factors associated with hypertensive disorders in pregnancy in our milieu, which include advanced age, the notion of preeclampsia and history of twin pregnancy for chronic hypertension, parity and religion for preeclampsia, and history of preeclampsia for superimposed preeclampsia.

The fractions and pure compounds isolated from the bark of R. heudoletti were tested for their antibacterial properties on negative and positive gram bacteria using the disc diffusion method. Phytochemical analysis of the fractions and pure compound isolated was also conducted. The inhibitions parameters of the fractions and pure compound were determined using macro dilution method. The results showed that fraction and isoflavonoid exhibited a significant antibacterial effect against twelve strains isolated from patients. These micro-organisms were Gram-negative (Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, Shigella flexneri, Pseudomonas aeroginosa, Enterobacter cloacae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Klebsiella oxytoca, Morganella morganii, Citrobacter freundi, and Proteus vulgaris) and positive gram (Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus feacalis). The ratio of minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) over the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) indicated a promising bactericidal effect of fractions and pure compounds isolated. These results support the current common use of the bark of Ricinodendron heudoletti and flavonoids in the treatment of some infectious diseases.

Introduction. Foot infections are a major complication of diabetes mellitus and eventually lead to development of gangrene and lower extremity amputation. Many studies reported the bacteriology of Diabetic Foot Infections (DFIs) over the past 25 years, but the results have been varied and often contradictory. Aims and Objectives. This study was carried out to determine the bacterial profiles of infected ulcers and the antibiotic resistance pattern of the isolates at the endocrinology and metabolic diseases unit of the Yaounde Central Hospital. Materials and Methods. Samples were collected from 59 patients with diabetic foot ulcers by using sterile swabs and they were processed. Results. A total of 148 bacterial isolates were obtained from 56 positive cultures, with an average of 2.5 organisms per case. The age group of these patients ranged from 14 to 75 years and the maximum number of patients was in the age group of 51 to 60 years. Gram negative bacilli were more prevalent (65.5%) than gram positive cocci (36.4%). Polymicrobial growth was observed in 84.48% of the specimen, Monomicrobial growth in 18.59% and sterile growth in 6.25% of the isolates. The commonest isolates among the gram negative bacteria’s were Proteus spp. (21.6%), Escherichia coli (18.9%), Klebsiella. spp (16.9%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (8.1%) while among the gram positive bacteria’s Staphylococcus aureus was predominant (17.6%), followed by Staphylococcus epidermidis (10.1%) then by Streptococcus pyogenes (6.8%). Antimicrobial susceptibility results showed that Gram negative bacterial isolates were 100% sensitive to Imipenem and 86.5% resistance to Ampicillin, while for the Gram positive bacterial, they were 44.5% sensitive to Ciprofloxacin and 46.8% resistance to Oxacillin. Conclusion. This study showed a preponderance of gram negative bacilli among the isolates from the diabetic foot ulcers. Knowledge on the antibiotic sensitivity pattern of the isolates will be helpful in determining adequate drugs for the empirical treatment of diabetic ulcers.

The present study was aimed at optimizing the transfusion security of the patients, we determined the seroprevalence of transferable infections by the blood transfusion notably the HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C and the syphilis among the blood donors at the blood bank of regional hospital of Bertoua to reduce meaningfully their impact in hospitable environment. We performed a prospective transversal survey on 429 Blood donors from the 1st January 2013 to 1st January 2014. We included 371 men (86.48%) and 38 women (13.52%). During this survey, we noted that, the most large part of blood donation was given by family members of patients with a seroprevalence of 58.04% compared to volunteers donors (23.78%) and remunerated donors (18.18%). The infections seroprevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and Syphilis has been estimated to 5.13%, 6.76%, 4.2% and 0.46% respectively. These results showed that it was necessary to put an accent on the pre-donation stages; cross-examination of the blood donor (research of information able to annul the blood donation), verification of the biological parameters (blood type rhesus, the hemoglobin rate and research of the infectious makers) to reduce the residual risks of these infections by the blood transfusion.

More than three decades after its outbreak, the Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) remains a great mystery because there is neither an existing vaccine against its causative agent (the human immune deficiency virus) nor a cure against it. Worst of all is the popular attention that is tuned to the AIDS virus, ignoring oxidative stress which is the major cause of mortality in HIV/AIDS as in many other chronic diseases. Antiretroviral drugs introduced in 1996 have been shown to increase oxidative stress among other drug-related complications. With these backdrops, an antioxidant therapy is necessary to accompany antiretroviral treatment without which its beneficial effects are null. The present review aims to discuss the role of Calyx juice of Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn (Malvaceae) as a possible therapeutic supplement to antiretroviral drugs.

Leukemia is a cancer of the early blood-forming cells. Most often, leukemia is a cancer of the white blood cells, but some leukemias start in other blood cell types. Scientists in the U.S. believe they have identified a new pathway in the progression of chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). They have also discovered that an extract from the root of a common ornamental plant can suppress the process. Drug discovery from natural sources involve a multifaceted approach combining botanical, phytochemical, biological, and molecular techniques. Accordingly, medicinal-plant-based drug discovery still remains an important area, hitherto unexplored, where a systematic search may definitely provide important leads against various pharmacological targets. Ironically, the potential benefits of plant-based medicines have led to unscientific exploitation of the natural resources, a phenomenon that is being observed globally. This decline in biodiversity is largely the result of the rise in the global population, rapid and sometimes unplanned industrialization, indiscriminate deforestation, and overexploitation of natural resources, pollution, and finally global climate change. Therefore, it is of utmost importance that plant biodiversity be preserved, to provide future structural diversity and lead compounds for the sustainable development of human civilization at large. This becomes even more important for developing nations, where well-planned bioprospecting coupled with nondestructive commercialization could help in the conservation of biodiversity, ultimately benefiting mankind in the long run. Based on these findings, the present review is an attempt to update our knowledge about the role of signaling pathways and medicinal plants in Leukemia therapy.

The present study aimed at evaluating the nutritional state impact on liver detoxification function in patients infected by the human immunodeficiency virus under antiretroviral drugs. We performed a retrospective and prospective transversal survey on the patients infected by the human immunodeficiency virus, under antiretroviral drugs at the Bertoua day hospital. The retrospective period of our survey went from October 24, 2014 to February 24, 2014 (4 months) and the prospective shutter of the survey went from February 24, 2014 to August 24, 2014 (6 months), a total period of 10 months. We also analysed the socio-demographics parameters (Age and Sex), Biological parameters (HIV type, CD4, Transaminases) and the therapeutics parameters (Therapeutic protocol, Evolution). The hepatic affection has been judged by the remarkable increase of the rate of transaminases (>3N) and by the appearance of hypersensitivity signs (Skin rashes, Fever…). During this survey, 38 hepatic-toxicity cases caused by the intake of ARV drugs were collected. We included 12 men (31.58%) and 26 women (68.42%) with a sex-ratio of 0.46 in favor of the women. The average age was 45.68±13.13 year with age ranging between 10 to 65 years. Age group of 50 years and above was most represented with a percentage of 42.10. The majority of the patients were infected by the HIV 1 (86.85%) against 10.52% for the HIV 2 and 2.63% for the HIV 1+2. The most prescribed therapy was the association of 2 INTI+1 INNTI (Tenofovir+Lamivudine+Nevirapine) and the AIDS stage represented 7.89%. Prior to the antiretroviral therapy, the 38 patients had normal transaminases that followed modifications of the initial therapeutic protocol after a remarkable increase during the antiretroviral therapy. We noted during this survey that the hepatotoxicity intervention of our patients under ARV drugs was correlated to their Body Mass Index (BMI) that allowed us to evaluate the nutritional state of our patients. The intervention of the hepatotoxicity during the antiretroviral therapy, among the HIV patients having a good nutritional state (normal BMI), was very weak in the absence of the predisposing factors.

More than three decades after its outbreak, the Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) remains a great mystery because there is neither an existing vaccine against its causative agent (the human immune deficiency virus) nor a cure against it. Worst of all is the popular attention that is tuned to the AIDS virus, ignoring oxidative stress which is the major cause of mortality in HIV/AIDS as in many other chronic diseases. Antiretroviral drugs introduced in 1996 have been shown to increase oxidative stress among other drug-related complications. With these backdrops, an antioxidant therapy is necessary to accompany antiretroviral treatment without which its beneficial effects are null. The present review aims to discuss the Oxidative Role of HIV/AIDS and antiretroviral drugs as well as some plants that have recently been revealed to be rich sources of antioxidants.