Cell Biology and Development

Short Communication: Morpho-anatomical and histochemical characterization of four species of Cyperaceae in Rivers State, Nigeria

MERCY GOSPEL AJURU — 2025-01-22

Abstract. Ajuru MG, Chinwe-Chikere L, Ibiye A, Elebachi BO. 2024. Short Communication: Morpho-anatomical and histochemical characterization of four species of Cyperaceae in Rivers State, Nigeria. Cell Biol Dev 7: 68-74. This research investigated the morpho-anatomical and histochemical characteristics of four species of Cyperaceae (Kyllinga erecta, Kyllinga bulbosa, Pycreus lanceolatus and Mariscus alternifolius) in Rivers State University. They are perennial, monocotyledonous herbs commonly known as erect greenhead sedge, spikesedge, narrow-leaf flatsedge and umbrella sedge respectively. Hand sectioning method and light microscopy were used for both anatomical and histochemical studies, while meter rule was used for quantitative morphological characters and visual observation was used for qualitative characters. The results for anatomy indicated that epidermal cells are one layered and present in the four species studied, the vascular bundles are all scattered, collateral, conjoint and closed in the stems and are also surrounded by parenchyma cells. The results of histochemical studies showed that there were no calcium oxalate crystals in either the stem or rhizomes of the four species. Results from morphological studies showed that the four species have triangularly shaped stems and are tufted and herbaceous perennial sedges. The four species also have fibrous roots and their leaves are all simple, alternate, glabrous and tristichously arranged. The results also showed that the four species of sedges exhibited a wide range of morphological features that distinguish them from another group of plants, and the characters showed some level of similarities amongst themselves. There were no calcium oxalate crystals in both the stem and rhizomes of all four species studied. Also, the presence of fibrous roots and umbel inflorescence authenticated their classification as monocotyledonous plants. The results of this research would help to improve upon the already existing information about the four species.

Effects of light-dark cycle and light-emitting diode (LED) colors on the behavioral and physiological responses of Phodopus roborovskii

PRINCESS JELIAN S. FUERTES — 2024-12-28

Abstract. Fuertes PJS, Aquino AM, Balones NA, Pajila JJL, Granadozin Jr. MP, Brillo SC. 2024. Effects of light-dark cycle and light-emitting diode (LED) colors on the behavioral and physiological responses of Phodopus roborovskii. Cell Biol Dev 8: 51-57. The internal biological clocks regulate the 24-hour cycle of the circadian rhythm. Changes in the quantity or quality of light can disrupt the circadian rhythm as light influences the circadian clock synchronization, affecting the behavior and physiology of an organism. We determined the effects of different light-dark cycles and LED colors, specifically white, blue, and yellow, on the behavior and physiology of P. roborovskii. The test subjects were acclimated for one week. Five setups were utilized per LED color, particularly control (12L:12D) and treatment groups (24L:0D, 18L:6D, 6L:18D, 0L:24D). The amount of food intake (g), running wheel usage duration (min), sleep duration (min), and body weight (g) were recorded daily. Inferences regarding the melatonin and corticosterone levels were established from the behavioral assessment. The findings revealed a significant difference in sleep duration and running wheel usage. Results showed that white light at 18L:6D induced longer sleep duration, while blue light at 18L:6D resulted in shorter sleep duration. Moreover, blue light at 24L:0D promoted a longer duration of running wheel usage, whereas yellow light at 0L:24D impeded the use of the running wheel. Based on the behavioral data, it can be inferred that as melatonin levels increase throughout sleep onset, corticosterone levels decrease. Furthermore, there is no significant difference in the amount of food intake and body weight between the control and treatment groups. In conclusion, behavioral and physiological changes following light exposure were observed, disrupting the test subjects' circadian rhythm.

Review: Chemical profiles and therapeutic potentials of golden sea cucumber (Stichopus hermanii)

AHMAD ASFAR AULIA — 2024-12-28

Abstract. Aulia AA, Astuti AR, Wulandari AA, Nugroho GD, Setyawan AD. 2024. Review: Chemical profiles and therapeutic potentials of golden sea cucumber (Stichopus hermanii). Cell Biol Dev 8: 58-67. The golden sea cucumber (Stichopus hermanii) is a species of sea cucumber that has a unique chemical profile and significant therapeutic potential. Traditionally, sea cucumbers have been used in medicine in Southeast Asia for their properties which include anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. The distribution of golden sea cucumbers is dominant in Southeast Asia and Northern Australia, but their populations are threatened due to excessive fishing. Conservation efforts through cultivation are being developed to restore wild stocks. This research aims to determine the hidden chemical profile and therapeutic potential of the golden sea cucumber by collecting information from various literature. Golden sea cucumbers have many chemical profiles, namely protein, saponin, triterpenoid, collagen, GAGs, flavonoid, mineral, glutathione, alkaloid, methanol, and hyaluronic acid. This spesies also have great potential as therapeutic agents, such as wound healing, antifungal properties, hipertrigliseridemia, hypercholesterolemia, diabetes, bone and tooth regeneration. This research brings various data that showed the importance of golden sea cucumbers in the field of health, such as the ability to increase insulin sensitivity, which is beneficial in the treatment of diabetes. Additionally, the high protein content in sea cucumbers provides additional nutritional value and supports antioxidant function. An in-depth understanding of the chemical composition and therapeutic benefits of golden sea cucumbers can encourage the development of biomedical products and support the economic well-being of coastal communities that depend on this resource. Therefore, conservation measures for this species must continue to be carried out so that it remains sustainable in nature and can be used wisely by humans.