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Since the incidence of Malignant melanoma (MM) is rising, we propose high quality patient samples bio-bank for proper understanding of the disease and with time analyze on a large scale proteogenomics. There is increased need to support research and help improved patient care and outcome. Bio-banking in MM will provide high quality and well define tissue and bio-fluid specimens. Materials and Methods: Large scale sample collection were done for 22 patients with histological diagnosis of MM. The patients consent and hospital ethical approval was sorted for the study, with patients' fresh frozen tissue and blood samples collected, fractionated and stored in an automated bio-bank. Five patients however did not consent for bio-banking of their samples. Results: Patients that consented to sample collection had proteogenomic studies and other studies were done on their specimens with possibilities of new treatments for the patients and precision oncology for these patients tailored on their unique genomic landscape. Conclusion: Bio -banking on a large scale is possible and helpful in MM patient especially in our environment where most patients are lost to follow up and have high degree of resistance and mortality during chemo radiation treatment. Citation Format: Kasimu Umar Adoke, Sanusi Mohammed Haruna. Melanoma revisited; The need for bio-banking and precision oncology, a study from a resource limited setting [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2022; 2022 Apr 8-13. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2022;82(12_Suppl):Abstract nr 5966.

Evasion of apoptosis is associated with treatment resistance and metastasis in colorectal cancer (CRC). Various cellular processes are associated with evasion of apoptosis. These include overexpression of pro-apoptotic proteins (including p53 and PD-L1), anti-apoptotic proteins (BIRC7/Livin and Bcl-2), chemokine receptors (including DARC), and dysregulation of DNA mismatch repair proteins (including MSH2 and PMS2). The aim of this study was to determine the effect of folinic acid, 5-FU and oxaliplatin (FOLFOX) as a single agent and aspirin plus FOLFOX in various combinations on the aforementioned proteins in human CRC, SW480 cell line and rat models of N-Methyl-N-Nitrosourea (NMU)-induced CRC. In addition, effects of the NMU-induced CRC and chemotherapeutic regimens on haematological and biochemical parameters in the rat models were studied. Immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and immunoblot techniques were used to study the expression pattern of the related proteins in the human CRC cells pre- and post-treatment. Double contrast barium enema, post-mortem examination and histological analyses were used to confirm tumour growth and the effect of the treatmentin vivoin rat models. Notably, we found in human mucinous CRC, a significant increase in expression of the BIRC7/Livin post-FOLFOX treatment compared with pre-treatment (p= 0.0001). This increase provides new insights into the prognostic role of BIRC7/Livin in evasion of apoptosis and facilitation of treatment resistance, local recurrence and metastasis particularly among mucinous CRCs post-FOLFOX chemotherapy. These poor prognostic features in the CRC may be further compounded by the significant suppression of DARC, PD-L1, PMS2 and overexpression of MSH2 and anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 and p53 proteins observed in our study (p < 0.05). Importantly, we found a significant reduction in expression of BIRC7/Livin and reactivation of DARC and PD-L1 with a surge in Annexin V expression in rat models of CRC cells post-treatment with a sequential dose of aspirin plus FOLFOX compared with other treatmentsin vivo(p

Background: Diseases of children in most developing countries revolve commonly around infectious disorders and malnutrition. However, other conditions including neoplastic diseases may be unassuming challenges to the attending physician. The objective of this study was to determine the epidemiological and histopathological pattern of malignant tumours among children in a northern Nigerian tertiary health institution. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective study of malignant tumours in children aged fifteen years and below diagnosed over a ten year period (1st January 2011- 31st December 2020). Histopathology laboratory records at the Department of Pathology, Federal Medical Centre, Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi state, were reviewed and all diagnoses of malignant tumours were extracted. The findings were compared with similar studies elsewhere. Results: There were 36 children with confirmed cases of malignant tumours; 22 males and 14 females. The male to female ratio was 1.7:1. The peak age of incidence was 11-15years. The most common childhood malignant tumours were rhabdomyosarcoma, retinoblastoma, osteosarcoma, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Head and neck region was the commonest area of affectation. Conclusion: The most common malignant tumours in children in our setting are sarcomas and small round blue cell tumours of childhood affecting predominantly older male children with head and neck regional predilections. Malignant tumours in children though not very common, are an important aspect of paediatric disorders to the attending physician due to their high morbidity and mortality. The diagnosis of such can be challenging to the pathologist, especially in resource constrain environments. High index of suspicion is therefore advocated to detect the tumour in its early stage that is associated with low morbidity and mortality.

Background HPV- related carcinoma with adenoid cystic like features of the sinonasal tract is a newly describe entity with histological and immunophenotypic features of surface derived and salivary gland carcinoma. It affects females more than males with age range of 40–70 years and is linked to high risk HPV infection. Most cases present with nasal obstruction and epistaxis. They consist of basaoid cells growing in various sizes separated by fibrocollagenous stroma.1 It is believed to have a good prognosis. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are activated macrophages associated with tumor progression in various cancers. TAMs can polarize M1 or M2 type. M1 has a pro-inflammatory function and kills pathogens. Conversely, M2 shows immunosuppressive action and promotes tumor growth. CD68 is known as a pan-macrophage marker.2 We evaluate the CD68 expression in three cases of HPV- related carcinoma with adenoid cystic like features of the sinonasal tract. Methods Three cases of HPV-related carcinoma with adenoid cystic like features were retrieved from our archives and stained with p16 and CD68 antibodies. Data was analyzed using spss version 21. Results Patient ages were 46, 48 and 56 years old respectively, with a female to male ratio of 2:1. Histology showed epithelial surface dysplasia overlying basaloid cell growing in tubular and crbriform patterns. All were strongly positive for p16 stains (figure 1). CD 68 showed intratumoral and peritumoral expression in two cases while, one case showed only peritumoral expression. Infiltration of tumour associated macrophages (M2) CD68 cell in this study is associated with increase recurrence of HPV-related adenoid cystic carcinoma of the sinonasal tract (figure 2). Conclusions The targeting of TAMs in HPV-related adenoid cystic carcinoma of the sinonasal tract and other cancers should be explored in the future using macrophage targeted approach. Ethics Approval Health research ethics committee ABUTH/HREC/Y/2017 References Burugu S, Asleh-Aburaya K, Nielsen TO. Immune infiltrates in the breast cancer microenvironment: detection, characterization and clinical implication. Breast Cancer 2017; 24:3–15. Fan QM, Jing YY, Yu GF, Kou XR, Ye F, Gao L, Li R, Zhao QD, Yang Y, Lu ZH, Wei LX. Tumor-associated macrophages promote cancer stem cell-like properties via transforming growth factor-beta1-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Lett 2017;352:160–168.

Background/Aims: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is now a major public health problem with heavy morbidity and mortality in rural Africans despite the lingering dietary fiber-rich foodstuffs consumption. Studies have shown that increased intake of dietary fiber which contribute to low fecal pH and also influences the activity of intestinal microbiota, is associated with a lowered risk for CRC. However, whether or not the apparent high dietary fiber consumption by Africans do not longer protects against CRC risk is unknown. This study evaluated dietary fiber intake, fecal fiber components and pH levels in CRC patients. Methods: Thirty-five subjects (CRC=21, control=14), mean age 45 years were recruited for the study. A truncated food frequency questionnaire and modified Goering and Van Soest procedures were used. Results: We found that all subjects consumed variety of dietary fiber-rich foodstuffs. There is slight preponderance in consumption of dietary fiber by the control group than the CRC patients. We also found a significant difference in the mean fecal neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, hemicellulose, cellulose and lignin contents from the CRC patients compared to the controls (P

BackgroundTertiary lymphoid structure (TLS) are immune aggregates with various degrees of organization that forms outside of secondary lymphoid organ in response to chronic inflammation, infection or tumours.1 2 TLS like secondary lymphoid organ, has defined T cell zones, B cell zones, high endothelial venules (HEV) and matured dendritic cells. They have been shown to correlate with increase patient survival in many tumours. Pancreatic ductal carcinoma (PDAC) is generally believed to be immunologically inert, low tumour mutation burden (TMB) and poor response to checkpoint blockade. Recent findings in some patients with PDAC shows significant intratumoral cytotoxic T cell infiltration and a high Inflammatory signature. Since current immunotherapy aim to enhance CD 8+ T cells, we aim to investigate the contribution of humoral immunity in patients with TLS in PDAC.MethodsTissue blocks were obtained from departmental archive and sections were cut and stained with routine H&E of all patients who underwent surgery for pancreatic cancer from 2015–2021 at Federal Medical Centre Birnin Kebbi. Serial sections were done at 5µ and four immunohistochemical stains CD 3, CD8, CD20 and PD-L1 were used. Statistical analysis was done using spss version 24.ResultsA total of nine cases of PDAC were diagnosed during the period with a Male Female ratio of 1:1.25 with an age range of 40–68 years and a mean age of 57.7±8.4. Five cases (55.6%) of PDAC showed TLS with marked expression of CD20 B+ cells seen in all five cases (figures 1 and 2). Also expressed are CD 8+ cytotoxic T cells and PD-L1. Prognosis was better in patients with TLS compare with those without TLS.Abstract 10 Figure 1TLS in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.Abstract 10 Figure 2CD 20 stain in TLSConclusionsTLS can be a potential therapeutic target to explore in the future for treatment of some cancers including PDAC through induction of TLS formation in inert tumours or B lymphocyte specific target.ReferencesPitzalis C, Jones GW, Bombardieri M, Jones S. Ectopic lymphoid like structures in infection, cancer and autoimmunity. Nat Rev Immunol 2014; 14: 447–462.Neyt K, Perros F, Geurtsvan C, Hammad H. Lambrecht B. Tertiary lymphoid organs in infection and autoimmunity. Trends Immunol 2012; 33: 297–305.Ethics ApprovalEthical Approval was obtained for this study with Ethics number KSHREC Registration Number:104:6/2019ConsentN/A

Introduction: Childhood cancers as a growing public health challenge and is increasingly being recognized worldwide, including the developing nations. Each year, the number of pediatric cancers recorded in Africa shows an increase trend with the small round blue cells of childhood been the most common. About 90 percent of children with pediatric solid tumors die either of the complications of the tumor, chemotherapy or financial burden. Since mutation rate in pediatric cancer is lower than adult cancers, with targetable mutations identified in less than 50% of cases, we believe that using precision cancer medicine and to some extent implementational science can help reduce this burden in Africa. Methods: Forty-six cases of pediatric cancer were reviewed over a five-year period (2016- 2020). Their case notes were retrieved and data on site, tumor type, mode of diagnosis, drugs given, complications, follow-up visits and financial implications were accessed. Data was analyzed using spss version 21. Results: Patients age ranges from 3months to 12 years with a male female ratio of 4:3. The commonest site of pediatric tumor was the jaw 12(26%), eye 7(15.2%) and upper extremities 5(10.9%). The commonest tumor type was Burkitt lymphoma, retinoblastoma, alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, follicular lymphoma and nephroblastoma with rare types like synovial sarcoma and Ewing sarcoma also seen. Majority (70%) were diagnosed with routine H&E only with few diagnosed using immunohistochemistry. No FISH, CISH or NGS done on any of the tumors. Most patients (85%) received chemotherapy with the most common complication been tumor lysis syndrome. About 75% mortality was seen mainly due to complication of treatment. Conclusion: Childhood cancer is a big burden and has a dismal prognosis in our setting due to several factors. Incorporation of precision cancer medicine and implementation science can go a long way in improving pediatric cancer outcomes. Citation Format: Kasimu Umar Adoke, Yawale Iliyasu. Precision cancer medicine in pediatric tumors for improved survival in African children [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2021; 2021 Apr 10-15 and May 17-21. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(13_Suppl):Abstract nr 640.

Background: Melanoma is a malignant tumour that arises from melanocytic cells. The incidence is increasing worldwide in white population where fair skin people receive excessive sun exposure. Although relatively uncommon in Africa-Americans, recent trends shows increase incidence in Africa- Americans. Data on the incidence and biology of melanoma are few in Africa. This study review the variants and sites of melanoma in a resource poor setting in Nigeria with some immunohistochemical stains performed. Method: All cases of melanoma diagnosed in the Department of Pathology in a tertiary hospital in Nigeria over a three year period (2016-2018) were retrieved. Patient's information including site and age were also retrieved from their case notes. Immunohistochemistry using two antibodies S-100, HMB-45 was done. Results: A total 38 cases were seen during the study period with a male female ratio of 1:1.1. The age range was 5-80 years with a mean age of 48.8±18.1. The most common site for melanoma is the foot 19(50%), followed by the uvea 7(18.4%), skin and inguinal lymph node 4(10.5%), anorectal and conjunctiva had 2(5.3%). The commonest histological variant of melanoma was acral lentigenous melanoma 19(50%), Superficial spreading melanoma 4(10.5%), nodular melanoma 3(7.9%) and desmoplastic melanoma 1(2.6%). Immunohistochemistry was used on three cases to rule out differentials. Conclusion: Malignant melanoma in our setting is in contrast with African-Americans and Caucasians population base on site and histological type, hence future studies on molecular pathways of melanoma in Africa needs to be explored to show similarity or difference and the possibility of targeted immunotherapy. Citation Format: Kasimu Umar Adoke, Mohammed Faruk, Yawale Iliyasu, Saad Aliyu Ahmed. Histological variants and sites of presentation of malignant melanoma in a resource poor setting: A histopathological review [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research 2020; 2020 Apr 27-28 and Jun 22-24. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(16 Suppl):Abstract nr 4342.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) has disproportionately overburden Africans with advanced stage at diagnosis and higher mortality rate due in part to issues that include grossly inadequate resources for management and poor understanding of the pathobiology of the disease. Accumulating evidences support the effectiveness of Aspirin in prevention and inhibition of CRC occurrence and cellular growth respectively. The utilisation of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-based regimens which include folinic acid, 5-FU and oxaliplatin (FOLFOX) combination in CRC management have not completely halt the distant recurrences and poor prognosis of CRC. In this study, we highlighted evidences that prove Aspirin plus FOLFOX to be promising alternative for clinical trial in Black men with CRC. Our study aims in this research were: to identify the expression pattern of BIRC7 in human CRC cells, SW480 cell line and N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (NMU)-induced CRC in rat; to determine the relationship between BIRC7 and BCL2, p53, PDL-1, MSH1, PMS2, DARC and Annexin V expression in CRC. to examine the efficacy of Aspirin plus neoadjuvant FOLFOX on the BIRC7 in CRC cells in-vivo in rat. Results show significant (P = 0.0001) expression of the BIRC7 in the CRC tissues compared to normal sections. When comparing this expression with Data from TCGA data bank, we observed a significant increase in BIRC7 expression in Caucasian than the Black and Indian and The expression pattern of the BIRC7 was significantly higher (P = 0.0001) in CRC not otherwise specified compared to mucinous CRC histology. The SW480 cell line show increased expression of the BIRC7 protein in-vitro. There was significant expression of the BIRC7 in the NMU-induced CRC cells compared the normal colonic lesion. There was increased expression of the BCL-2 and reduced expression of p53 in the human CRC cases and in the NMU-induced CRC cells model. There was increased expression of the Annexin V, absence of the MSH1, PMS2, PDL1 and DARC protiens in the CRC sections. Aspirin plus FOLFOX may serve as an important adjuvant treatment component for colorectal cancer metastasis and local recurrence in Blacks, Caucasian and Asians. There is need to explore the potential of Aspirin plus FOLFOX for clinical trial in colorectal cancer management in Blacks and other population using approach from our findings. Citation Format: Faruk Mohammed, Sani Ibrahim, Sirajo Mohammed Aminu, Ahmed Adamu, Adamu Abdullahi, Abdulmumini Hassan Rafindadi, Yawale Iliyasu, John Idoko, Abdullahi Jubril Randawa, Mohammed Sani Shehu, Atara Ntekim, Abdullahi Mohammed, Aishatu Maude Suleiman, Yahaya Ukwenya, Khalid Zahir Shah, Ahmad Bello, Sani Abubakar, Kasimu Umar Adoke, Cheh Augustin Awasum, Ahmad Mai, Hussaini Yusuf Maitama, Dauda Maigatari. Aspirin plus FOLFOX for colorectal cancer management: A promising alternative for clinical trial in Africans with the disease [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2019; 2019 Mar 29-Apr 3; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 720.

Prostate cancer (CaP) is the most common male gender cancer and present with a 5-year prevalence, incidence and mortality rate in Nigerian Black men. There is disproportionate prevalence and poor understanding of CaP in Black men globally. The Prostate Cancer Transatlantic Consortium (CaPTC) has documented significant CaP burden among Nigerian black men in Nigeria and in the Diaspora. Notably, African ancestry is one of the most important risk factors of CaP globally. Increased levels of cortisol, a stress-related catabolic hormone is significantly associated to prostate specific antigen and poor prognosis in prostate cancer patients. Cortisol causes degradation of muscle proteins into amino-acids. Amino acids such as leucine, serves as a source of fuel for aggressive prostate cancer cells in a Warburg effect model through the L-amino acid transporters (LATs). The annexins are calcium and phospholipid binding proteins implicated in cancer development and progression. Overexpression of annexin 1 is one of the mechanisms by which cortisol inhibit inflammation. Annexin V has a high affinity to phosphatidylserine and play important role of inhibiting engulfment of apoptotic cells by macrophages to increase the immunogenicity of tumor cells undergoing apoptosis. PD-L1 is an important membrane-bound costimulatory molecule that inhibits immune responses through its receptor, PD-1. Overexpression of PD-L1 results to cancer cells aggressively evading the host immune system. The Duffy Antigen/Receptor for Chemokines (DARC) is a 7-transmembrane protein atypical chemokine receptor expressed on erythrocytes and vascular endothelial cells that binds to and clears angiogenic chemokines. Expression pattern of DARC is associated to cancer growth and metastasis. In this study, we report the expression pattern of tissue Cortisol, Annexin V, PD-L1 and DARC proteins in relationship to Gleason score in Nigerian Black men with Prostate cancer using immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. In addition, we assessed salivary cortisol levels by enzyme immunoassay and physical activity by a standardized CaPTC-AC3-MADCaP (C.A.M) CaP measures from 500 subjects recruited by via CaPTC cohort. Results showed significant expression of tissue and salivary cortisol in the CaP patients compared to the normal subjects (p > 0.05). The Tissue cortisol protein expression was higher in CaP cases with Gleason score 8. There was significant overexpression of Annexin protein in virtually the prostate cancer samples studied. We found a negative expression of PD-L1 and DARC proteins in all the CaP tissues studied. Cortisol and Annexin may serve as an important biomarker for prostate cancer diagnosis and prognosis in Nigerian Blacks. Citation Format: Faruk Mohammed, Folakemi T. Odedina, Sani Ibrahim, Abdulmumini Hassan Rafindadi, Ahmed Adamu, Abdullahi Adamu, Ahmad Bello, Surajo Mohammed Aminu, John Idoko, Aishatu Maude Suleiman, Solomon O. Rotimi, Ernie Kaninjing, Getachew A. Dagne, Clayton Yates, Yawale Iliyasu, Nissa Askins, Iya Eze Bassey, Renee Reams, Abdullahi Mohammad, Hussaini Yusuf Maitama, Dauda Maigatari, Mohammed Sani Shehu, Cheh Augustine Awasum, Abdulkadir Lawal Rafinadadi, Danladi Amodu Ameh, Serah Adewunmi, Ruth Agaba, Haruna Mohammad Muktar, Ahmad Mai, Saad Aliyu Ahmed, Ahmad Bello Kumo, Kasimu Umar Adoke, Ahmad Tijjani Lawal, Ahmad Muhammad, Omolora Fatiregun, Sunday Atawodi, Shehu Akuyam, Yusuf Abdulrashid, Mubarak Liman, Aliyu Muhammad, Abidemi Omonisi, Rebecca Gali, Hassan Dogo, Nkegoum Blaise, Anthonia Sowunmi, Titilola Akinremi, Emeka J. Iweala, Jigo Dangude Yaro, Badejo Adebukola Catherine, Akinwumi Oluwole Komolafe. Overexpressions of cortisol, annexin V and Lost in expression of PD-L1 and DARC proteins are associated with aggressive prostate cancer phenotypes in Black men: A CaPTC Cohort Study [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2018; 2018 Apr 14-18; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 2638.

Introduction Nigeria is Africa's most populous country and the 9th most populous country in the world. The country is the 6th largest producer of petroleum in the world. Health care and general living conditions in Nigeria are poor, especially for children and women. At least 70 to 75 percent of health expenditure comes from out of pocket expenses. Childhood cancers as a growing public health challenge and is increasingly being recognized worldwide, including the developing nations. Tremendous progress has been made in the treatment and cure of childhood cancers mostly in the developed world, most cases die of childhood cancers in our society. We look at fifty two cases of small round blue cell tumour of childhood (SRBCT) a diverse group of childhood cancers that have considerable overlap in epidemiology, morphology and immunophenotype over a three year period. Methods We reviewed the histology report and paraffin blocks of patients diagnosed as SRBCT of childhood in the department of pathology, from 2014-2017. We identified fifty two patients diagnosed as SRBCT during the study period. The information extracted includes age, sex, cancer type, treatment modality and outcome of all patients. We subjected the blocks to nine immunohistochemical stains to rule out differentials using Genemed biotechnology protocol. The stains include Cytokeratin, EMA, S-100, CD99, Desmin, CD10, CD20, BCL2 and Synaptophysin.. Results The age range in this study was 2-15 years with a mean of 7.2 years. The most common site for SRBCT was the head and neck region accounting for more than 46%. This is followed by the abdomen accounting for 19%. The commonest SRBCT after immunohistochemical stains was Burkitt's lymphoma 16(30.7%), retinoblastoma 8(15.4%), alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma 7(13.5%), Follicular lymphoma 5(9.6%), ES/PNET 5(9.6%), nephroblastoma 4(7.7%), neuroblastoma 4(7.7%) and synovial sarcoma 3(5.8%). All patients 52(100%) undergo chemotheraphy, 36(69%) undergo both surgery and chemotheraphy while 8(15.4%) sign against medical advice. All patients pay through out of pocket expences with no access to insurance. Thirty three patients (63%) died during chemotheraphy. Most patients are lost to follow up due to financial burden and unavailability of standard oncology services. Conclusion While tremendous progress has been made in the treatment of childhood cancers in the developed world, it still remains an important health problem in our societies largely because of multifactorial reasons creating a huge health disparity and contributing to under five mortality in our environment. Reducing poverty and creating better health facilities through knowledge sharing and collaboration with reduce this disparity. Citation Format: Kasimu U. Adoke, Faruk Mohammed. Small round blue cell tumour of childhood. A case of health disparity in Nigeria in the survival of patients [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2018; 2018 Apr 14-18; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 4248.

Studies have shown improved/increased intake of dietary fiber and low fecal pH are associated with a lowered risk for colorectal cancer. This study aimed to compare dietary fiber intake, fecal neutral detergent fiber (NDF) content, acid detergent fiber (ADF), cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin and fecal pH level of colorectal cancer patients and matched apparently healthy control group in rural Africans in Zaria, Nigeria. Twenty-one subjects of mean age 44.7 years who are diagnosed with colorectal cancer by histology and 14 apparently healthy matched control groups with mean age 45.2 years were recruited for this study. A predefined semi structured food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used to access the dietary fiber intake by the subjects. The fecal NDF content was analyzed by extracting 1 g of fecal sample with a mixture of ethanol/ether and refluxed with decalin and sodium sulphite. The extract was suctioned and washed with acetone to yield the total NDF. The NDF was refluxed with an acid detergent solution and dried overnight to yield the ADF. The differences in the NDF and ADF gave the total hemicelluloses. The differences in the weight of the ADF post-treatment with permanganate solution yielded the total lignin. The differences in weight of the permanganate residue post-treatment with 72% Sulphuric acid gave the cellulose content. A pH meter calibrated with buffers of pH 4 and 7 was used to measure the fecal pH of all the subjects. Results from the FFQ show all subjects consumed variety of dietary fiber food in significant amount. However, there was a significant difference in the fecal NDF, ADF, hemicellulose, lignin and cellulose contents from the colorectal cancer patients when compared with the control group (p Citation Format: Mohammed Faruk, Sani Ibrahim, Ahmed Adamu, Abdulmumini Hassan Rafindadi, Yahaya Ukwenya, Yawale Iliyasu, Abdullahi Adamu, Mohammed Sani Shehu, Danladi Amodu Ameh, Sirajo Mohammed Aminu, Saad Aliyu Ahmed, John Idoko, Atara Ntekim, Aishatu Maude Suleiman, Khalid Zahir Shah, Kasimu Umar Adoke. Dietary-fiber and fecal fiber contents including pH in rural Africans with colorectal cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR International Conference: New Frontiers in Cancer Research; 2017 Jan 18-22; Cape Town, South Africa. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(22 Suppl):Abstract nr A19.

The mechanism of cancer resistance to chemotherapy regimen remains uncertain. Colorectal mucinous adenocarcinoma is one of the distinct histological subtypes of the disease implicated in chemotherapeutic resistance associated with nodal and peritoneal metastases and worse disease-free survival as an index of poor prognosis. One of the important acquired capabilities used by the cancer cells to resist anticancer therapies is evasion of apoptosis possibly via inhibitor of apoptosis proteins for which Livin is one. This protein contains baculoviral IAP repeat domains in addition to a RING finger, a protein-protein motif important for binding and inhibition of active caspases that interfere with intrinsic and/or extrinsic pathway and the ensuing blockade of apoptosis. Thus, understanding the molecular events on how cancer cells of mucinous histology evade apoptotic death may provide a novel paradigm for a molecular targeted therapy in the management of colorectal mucinous adenocarcinoma. In this study, the expression pattern and prognostic value of IAP family protein, Livin, in colorectal cancer patients with mucinous histology pre and post-chemotherapy regimen was investigated. Tissue sections from advanced stage colorectal cancer patients who were treated or untreated with neo-adjuvant FOLFOX chemotherapy before curative resection were included in this study. The tissue sections were grouped according to colorectal adenocarcinomas showing mucinous histology and non-mucinous component. Histological study including Haematoxylin and Eosin, and immunohistochemistry for Anti-Livin and DNA mismatched repair proteins were carried out. Immunofluorescence study was performed to clarify the expression pattern of the protein using Anti-Livin antibody. Protein expression quantification study was also used. Results show significant cytoplasmic localisation and expression of Livin protein in the colorectal cancer cells. The Livin protein expression was found to be increased by more than a one-fold post-chemotherapy treatment when compared with pre-chemotherapy treated patients with mucinous histology of colorectal cancer. Younger patients were found to have a greater probability of colorectal mucinous adenocarcinoma diagnosis and worse prognosis. Our findings show that Livin-induced inhibition of apoptosis activity can be a target for novel approaches to treatment and prevention of chemotherapy associated drug resistance in mucinous histology colorectal cancer since Livin overexpression has been associated with metastases and worse disease-free survival. More study is needed Citation Format: Mohammed Faruk, Abdulmumini Hassan Rafindadi, Sani Ibrahim, Surajo Mohammed Aminu, Surajo Mohammed Aminu, Ahmed Adamu, Ahmed Adamu, Yawale Iliyasu, Adamu Abdullahi, Mohammed Sani Shehu, Abdullahi Mohammed, John Idoko, Abdullahi Jibril Randawa, Abdullahi Jibril Randawa, Atara Ntekim, Saad Aliyu Ahmed, Aishatu Suleiman Maude, Almustapha Aliyu Liman, Abubakar Sani, Khalid Zahir Shah, Yahaya Ukwenya, Yahaya Ukwenya, Cheh Augustine Awasum, Kasimu Umar Adoke, James Olowu Enemari, James Olowu Enemari, James Olowu Enemari, Andrew Jonathan Nok. Is Livin a protagonist of mucinous adenocarcinoma histology in colorectal cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2017; 2017 Apr 1-5; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 4918. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2017-4918

Dietary fiber (DF), the fermentation substrates for colonic bacteria, has acquired a crucial status in protection against colorectal cancer. DF consists of mucilage, beta-glucans and pectin (soluble fiber) and cellulose, hemicelluloses and lignin (insoluble fiber) which, are cross-linked with proteins and phenolic compounds. DF improves optimal health through fecal quality, quantity and decreased carcinogenic colonic bacterial metabolites. One of the physico-chemical properties of DF attributed to these important health functions is the natural presence of salicylic acid (SA), an active component of Aspirin in our foodstuffs. However, the presence of SA has been recently reported to be gradually diminishing from our foodstuffs as a result of manmade activity. A large number of studies support the effectiveness of Aspirin in inhibition of colorectal cancer cells growth in-vitro and in-vivo. DF is not currently fortified with Aspirin, nor have the effects of Aspirin fortification on physico-chemical properties of DF been thoroughly studied. Of note, gastrointestinal bleeding is one of the effects associated with high dose aspirin use. This research aims to assess the efficacy of fortification of DF-rich foodstuffs with Aspirin in-vivo using the N-methyl-N-nitrosourea carcinogen-induced model of colorectal cancer in rats, with emphasis on the mechanism of biologic action. A total of 30 male Albino rats whose weight falls between 110-150g were used. They were grouped into 6 sets of 5 rats each and a soluble and insoluble DF feeding intervention was systematically employed in various combinations with Aspirin (1600mg/kg diet) and without Aspirin fortification for 80 days. NMU was administered at a dose of 2 mg/kg intra rectally every other day for 60 days until the development of colorectal cancer which, was confirmed by barium enema and histological analysis. Hemogram and other pertinent investigations were done ultimately including histological assessment of tumors. The tumors were processed for histological analysis and immunohistochemistry using Anti-p53 and Anti-Bcl-2 antibodies. Findings show no histologically detectable colorectal tumor in the group of rats fed with Aspirin-fortified mixture of soluble and insoluble DF foodstuffs. There was a considerable tumor regression in the group fed with Aspirin-fortified soluble/insoluble DF when compared to non-fortified group. The results show up-regulation of p53 and down-regulation of Bcl-2 proteins in Aspirin-fortified DF fed rats when compared with non-fortified group (p Note: This abstract was not presented at the conference. Citation Format: Mohammed Faruk, Abdulmumini Hassan Rafindadi, Sani Ibrahim, Surajo Mohammed Aminu, Ahmed Adamu, Yawale Iliyasu, John Idoko, Mohammed Sani Shehu, Adamu Abdullahi, Abdullahi Jubril Randawa, Atara Ntekim, Saad Aliyu Ahmed, Cheh Augustine Awasum, Kasimu Adoke, Andrew Jonathan Nok. Fortification of dietary fiber-rich foodstuffs with Aspirin and its effect on colorectal carcinogenesis in rats. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Colorectal Cancer: From Initiation to Outcomes; 2016 Sep 17-20; Tampa, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(3 Suppl):Abstract nr A27.

Chemotherapeutic resistance is a problem in the management of malignant tumors especially colorectal adenocarcinoma. Overexpression of Baculoviral IAP repeat-containing protein-7 (BIRC7) was previously reported by this study group to limit the cytotoxic efficacy of neoadjuvant folinic acid, 5-fluorouracil and oxaliplatin (FOLFOX) chemotherapy regimen on human colorectal cancer cells in-vivo. And a significant inhibitory effect of Aspirin on the BIRC7 protein in p53 mutant SW480 colon cancer cells in-vitro was also found. Our aim now is to access the efficacy of the addition of Aspirin to neoadjuvant FOLFOX-chemotherapy on colorectal cancer cells in-vivo using the N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (NMU) carcinogen-induced model on albino rats per rectum. A total of 180 male Albino rats whose weight falls between 110-150g will be used. They will be grouped into 18 sets of 10 rats each and a three staged study will be performed. Namely, assessment of health parameters before the cancer induction, assessments on confirmation of cancer induction and assessments after chemotherapeutic intervention. The chemotherapeutic intervention will be further subdivided into mono, bi or tri therapy in various combinations with and without the addition of the Aspirin. The addition of Aspirin to the chemotherapy regimen will be further divided into concurrent and sequential addition. NMU will be administered at a dose of 2 mg/kg intra rectally every other day until the development of colorectal cancer which, will be confirmed by barium enema and histological analysis. Aspirin will be administered at a dose of 25 mg/kg or 12.5 mg/kg. Folinic acid will be administered at a dose of 7 mg/kg or 3.5 mg/kg intraperitoneally (i.p). Oxaliplatin will be dministered at a dose of 3 mg/kg or 1.5 mg/kg i.p. And 5-FU will be administered at a dose of 50 mg/kg or 25 mg/kg i.p. The animals' hemogram and other pertinent investigations will be done ultimately including culling for histological assessment of tumors. The tumors will be processed for H&E histological analysis, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, ELISA and immunoblot using Anti-BIRC7, COX-2, NFK-B, P53, Annexin, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2, and MLH1 antibodies. Findings show that at full sequential dose of Aspirin with chemotherapy there was absence of both significant BIRC7 expression and histologically residual detectable tumor in the colon of the Albino rats. Furthermore, results from the concurrent treatment of Aspirin and FOLFOX in full dose compound to half dose of both sequential and concurrent show that there was significant tumor regression when compared with the untreated colon tumor bearing Albino Rats. The study also shows a survival advantage of the group of Albino rats treated sequentially compared other groups. The study showed that Aspirin given at full therapeutic dose prior to neoadjuvant chemotherapy makes the tumor cells highly chemosensitive and may have a role in the finding of having no detectable cancer cells in the colon and also reduced BIRC7 expression. By implication, Aspirin primes the colorectal cancer cells for neoadjuvant chemotherapeutic efficacy and this may be important for management of colorectal cancer patients. Citation Format: Mohammed Faruk, Sani Ibrahim, Surajo Mohammed Aminu, Adamu Abdullahi, Ahmed Adamu, Yawale Iliyasu, Mohammed Shehu Shehu, John Idoko, Abdullahi Jibril Randawa, Atara Ntekim, Saad Aliyu Ahmed, Abubakar Sani, Khalid Zahir Shah, Yahaya Ukwenya, Cheh Augustine Awasum, Kasimu Umar Adoke, Andrew Jonathan Nok. Assessment of chemotherapeutic responses to neoadjuvant FOLFOX and Aspirin on BIRC7 in colorectal adenocarcinoma cells induced in Albino rats. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Precision Medicine Series: Targeting the Vulnerabilities of Cancer; May 16-19, 2016; Miami, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2017;23(1_Suppl):Abstract nr B27.

Schistosomiasis remains a burden in sub-Saharan countries and detection is often incidental in females. Also, there is an increase in the incidence of tubal ectopic pregnancy due to pelvic inflammatory diseases (PIDs). The coexistence of these two pathologies in the female reproductive organs may lead to impaired fertility. We present a 28-year-old gravida 7, para 4 + 2 female with 2-months amenorrhea, 6 days lower abdominal pain, and 2-h history of dizzy spells seen at the Accident and Emergency Unit of our hospital. Clinical examination and ultrasound findings confirmed a ruptured right tubal gestation. She had salpingectomy and specimen was sent to the histopathology laboratory for analysis. Grossly, a well-formed male fetus consistent with 4-lunar-month gestation was seen in the expanded fallopian tube. Histopathologic sections from the tube revealed a ruptured expanded wall containing chorionic villi, decidua, and numerous Schistosoma haematobium ova. There was extensive fibrosis of the tubal wall. The diagnosis of schistosomiasis in reproductive age females is often incidental due to either absent or nonspecific symptoms, while tubal ectopic gestation is common and there are many factors attributable to its rising global incidence. Both schistosomiasis and ectopic gestation are strongly associated with infertility. Thus, the occurrence of schistosomiasis and second trimester tubal pregnancy in the same location in a multiparous female is a novelty.