Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of man-made chemicals that are widely present in many industries. Monitoring and analyzing PFAS in Africa is challenging due to the limited availability of mass spectrometry (MS), which is an essential technique for detecting PFAS. This review assesses the scope and impact of the shortage of mass spectrometry instruments in Africa, emphasizing the resulting limitations in monitoring environmental and public health threats. The review analyzes the existing PFAS monitoring, the accessibility of MS instruments, and the technical capabilities within the continent. This study suggests that fewer African countries have sufficient MS instruments, resulting in significant underreport of environmental data and related public health issues. The review proposes financial support and programs to address these difficulties to provide necessary MS instruments. The review suggests that it is highly important to develop regional centers of excellence for PFAS monitoring using MS instruments and investing in training programs to address the gap in monitoring efforts. So, enhancing these are crucial for the successful management of the environment and safeguarding public health from the effects of PFAS contamination.
1 January 2024 in Advances in Biomarker Sciences and Technology
Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa, where it contributes significantly to morbidity and mortality. Traditional
Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), also known as Hughes syndrome, is a systemic autoimmune disorder characterized by recurrent thrombosis and pregnancy complications, accompanied by the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPLs). These antibodies target anionic phospholipids or protein–phospholipid complexes within cell membranes, contributing to the underlying mechanisms of the disease. Although anticoagulation therapy remains the cornerstone of APS management, it often fails to prevent complications, particularly in obstetric and thrombotic cases. As autoimmune diseases become increasingly linked to alterations in the gut microbiome, this study investigates the complex interaction between gut bacteria and immune modulation in APS. We explore how disruptions in the gut microbiome may influence the development of autoimmune conditions, with a specific focus on APS. By identifying key microorganisms potentially involved in this gut–immune axis, we aim to provide insights into novel preventive and control approaches. Future research should focus on harnessing the gut microbiome to develop more effective treatments that target both the immune system and microbial populations in APS patients.