Research Article
CRISPR-Cas9 Gene Editing Therapy, a Curative Hope for Sickle Cell in Nigeria, West Africa
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 3, September 2024
Pages:
48-53
Received:
24 April 2024
Accepted:
20 June 2024
Published:
15 July 2024
Abstract: Sickle cell anaemia is one of the haemoglobin abnormalities resulting from a genetic mutation— it is caused by inheriting two faulty genes that result in an abnormal substitution of glutamate for valine on the beta chain of haemoglobin, which causes haemoglobin molecules to stick together. According to a World Health Organization (WHO) report, 20 out of every 1,000 births suffer from sickle-cell anaemia, and 24% of Nigerians are carriers of this mutant gene. Scientists have suggested several solutions, including stem cell transplantation and gene therapies, but these have faced opposition due to ethical beliefs, high cost, and the ensuing immune issues. Research is now centered on advancing genome editing techniques for gene therapy. Ongoing studies have proven that genetic differences can be corrected methodically by modifying the genome at specific sites instead of introducing a new copy of the affected gene into the cells; due to the effectiveness of this method, scientists are testing its applications in manipulating genes in various systems. This review correlates a few studies that used the recently developed technique—CRISPR-Cas9—as a novel approach to gene therapy, dissecting the different clinical studies about sickle cell origin to point out many of its ethical and medical limitations, the consequences of these limitations, and the advancements this technology has made possible.
Abstract: Sickle cell anaemia is one of the haemoglobin abnormalities resulting from a genetic mutation— it is caused by inheriting two faulty genes that result in an abnormal substitution of glutamate for valine on the beta chain of haemoglobin, which causes haemoglobin molecules to stick together. According to a World Health Organization (WHO) report, 20 o...
Show More
Research Article
Combining Ability, Heterosis and Potence Ratio for Yield and Yield Components in Korean Double-Haploid, Progenies and Improved Rice Varieties in Nigeria
Ogba Chinonyelum Somtochukwu,
Efisue Andrew Abiodun*
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 3, September 2024
Pages:
54-67
Received:
12 June 2024
Accepted:
9 July 2024
Published:
31 July 2024
Abstract: Rice is the most widely consumed staple crop in Africa and consumption continues to grow at a rapid pace with increasing population. Success in breeding programs are largely dependent on the genetic diversity of a crop. Genetic variability occurs due to genetic differences in individuals within a given population, which is the basis of plant breeding. Thus, if the genetic variability is well managed, diversity can result to permanent gains in the performance of the crop. The objectives of this study were to determine the interaction between grain yield and yield components and to conduct genetic studies on selected rice genotypes. The research was carried out at the University of Port Harcourt Faculty of Agriculture teaching and research farm. Thirteen (13) varieties were used which comprised 7 adapted Nigerian varieties and 6 Korean rice varieties in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) in three replications was established. All agronomic practices were carried out at appropriately crop phenology. North Carolina II mating design was used to perform crosses. Data was collected on 10 agronomic traits. All means were subjected to ANOVA, combining ability, Heterosis and Potence ratio were determined. The progenies from UPIA 2 x UPN 234, FARO 52 X UPN 266 and UPIA 3 X UPN 266 had the best phenotypic and genotypic expression and most of the hybrids had heterotic values than their parents. The results also showed ranges of dominance for genotypes. UPIA 1, UPIA 2, UPN 223, UPN 234 and UPN266 should be included in breeding programs because they showed the best GCA’s across most traits.
Abstract: Rice is the most widely consumed staple crop in Africa and consumption continues to grow at a rapid pace with increasing population. Success in breeding programs are largely dependent on the genetic diversity of a crop. Genetic variability occurs due to genetic differences in individuals within a given population, which is the basis of plant breedi...
Show More
