ABSTRACT
@#Blastocystis is a prevalent infectious agent found in the gastrointestinal tract of humans and animals. While the morphology of Blastocystis has been extensively studied, there is still a lack of comprehensive research on its ultrastructure, especially regarding surface characteristics and their correlation with pathogenic potential. Additionally, the subtyping of Blastocystis does not provide information on the isolate’s pathogenicity. This study aimed to examine the morphology and the cell surface of Blastocystis in avian and non-human primates, including peafowl, pheasant, and lion-headed tamarin. By employing light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), this study provides the first evidence of the cellular and surface features of Blastocystis in these animal species. Our findings revealed distinct variations in cell size, shape, and surface morphology among the different host species. Notably, the isolates from peafowl exhibited larger cell sizes compared to the isolates from the pheasant. However, interestingly, both animal species were found to exhibit the same Blastocystis ST6. It was also observed that the surface structure of Blastocystis from different hosts displayed a diverse range of patterns, including mesh-like appearances, deep indentations, and attachments to bacteria. Additionally, findings also revealed the presence of a rough surface structure in peafowl, a characteristic that has been previously linked to pathogenicity and symptomatic infection in animals, as indicated by earlier studies. The findings contribute to our understanding of the morphological features and the surface characteristic of Blastocystis in different host species, shedding light on the parasite’s adaptations and potential implications for host health.
ABSTRACT
@#Blastocystis is the most prevalent eukaryotic gastrointestinal symbiont found in humans and animals worldwide. Increased human infection rates are associated with raising concerns about the involvement of the parasite in public health. Over the last decade, the number of linked epidemiology studies has been prudently grown. Microscopy has been used to detect the presence of protozoan and the advent of molecular techniques has made detection easier. However, due to its limited host specificity and zoonotic potential, animals, either livestock or wildlife animals, may serve as a potential reservoir for Blastocystis infection transmission. The approach utilised in this study aided in understanding the distribution and prevalence of Blastocystis in animals, particularly captivated and free-ranging wild animals worldwide due to increased interest. This review will help comprehend the epidemiological aspects, demographic, subtypes, and the zoonotic potential of Blastocystis in wildlife and captive animals.
ABSTRACT
The studies on phytochemical, nutraceutical profiles and potential medicinal values of Allium sativumlinn (lilliaceae) on bacterial meningitis were evaluated against bacterial meningitis pathogens. The methods employed in this study were validation of phytochemical screening which was done according to standard methods, determination of nutritional composition was carried out using analytical automated instruments (Atomic Absorption Spectrometers) and evaluation of in vitro antibacterial activities of the extracts against clinical isolates using agar-well diffusion and broth dilution methods. The clinical isolates of meningitis pathogens, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitides, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzaeand Escherichia coliwere obtained from Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), Shika-Zaria. The collected bulbs of A. sativum(600g) were washed and air dried under shade for 2 hours and the dry scaly outer covering was peeled-off to obtain the fresh garlic cloves which were then divided into three parts of 200 g each. These three portions were crushed separately for cold extraction. The first portion was homogenized and poured into a muslin cloth to squeeze out the juice, while second and third portions were homogenized and submerged into 500 ml of 96% ethanol and 500 ml of distilled water respectively for 24 hours and both filteredafter thorough shaking. The first and second portions were freeze dried, while the third portion was evaporated over water bath at 50°C to obtain the powdered yield. The phytochemical screening of A. sativum extracts (JEAS, EEAS and AEAS) revealed the presence of alkaloids, carbohydrates, cardiac glycosides, fats & oils, flavonoids, saponins and steroidal terpenoids. The results obtained as nutritional profiles from analytical automated machines analysis showed that A. sativumcontained all classes of foodnutrients such as carbohydrate, protein, fat and oils, dietary fibres, and vitamins together with zeolite herbominerals (nanopharmacologic effects). JEAS and EEAS extracts were potent in (0.94 ± 0.01 minutes), (0.99±0.04) and antibacterial activities while and AEAS (1.20±0.04) showed low activity, inhibiting the clinical bacterial isolates Neisseria meningitides, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzaeand Escherichia coliwith diameter of zone of inhibition ranging from 15-36 mm at concentrationsof 10, 15, 20 and 25 mg/ml. It produced significant (p<0.05) antibacterial activity while EEAS and AEAS showed low activities, except Klebsiella pneumoniaewhich was resistant to the three extracts concentrations used. The extracts inhibited the growth ofthe bacterial isolates in a concentration dependent manner with MICs ranging between 0.04-1.56 mg/ml while MBCs was 0.10-2.50 mg/ml respectively the findings from this study could be of interest and suggest the need for further investigations with a view to use the plant in novel drug development for BM therapy. The outcome of this study could therefore justify the ethnomedical and folkloric usage of A. sativumto treat bacterial meningitis locally
ABSTRACT
Aims:This research was carried out to determine the antibacterial activity of Acacia nilotica stem bark extract and bioactive fractions against the test bacteria (Staphylococcus aureusand Escherichia coli). Place and Duration of Study:Acacia niloticawas collected within Aliero town, Kebbi State, Nigeria between April and September, 2017. Methodology:The crude and bioactive fractions were obtained using soxhlet extraction and column chromatographic methodrespectively. The qualitative phytochemical screening was conducted to detect the presence of some phytochemical constituents in the crude extract and fractions. The antibacterial activity was determined at various concentrations (10, 50, 100, 150 and 200mg/ml) using disc diffusion method Results:The crude antibacterial activity indicated that ethanol extract showed higher activity than the n-hexane extract with 14.0±0.00 and 12.0±0.00 mm zones of inhibition compared with the control drug (10μg Ciprofloxacin drug), which showed 14.0±0.00 and 13.0±0.00 mm zone of inhibition against the test bacteria. The MIC and MBC values determined for ethanol extracts against the test bacteria was 12.5 mg/ml and 25 mg/ml, while the MIC and MBC values obtained for n-hexane extracts were 25 and 50 mg/ml against the test bacteria. The bioactive fractions (Yellow, Purple and Blue Black Fractions) tested against the test bacteria showed higher activity compared with the crude extract. The phytochemical properties of the plant crude extract and the bioactive fractions indicated the presence of phenol, tannins, alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, terpenoids, steroids and glycosides and this attributed to the high antibacterial activities of 17.0±0.00and 16.0±0.00mm showed by the fractionsagainst Staphylococcus aureus and 15.67±and 14.0±0.00mm against Escherichia coli respectively. Conclusion:Acacia niloticacrude extract and fractions exhibited antibacterial activity which was comparable to the standard drug ciprofloxacin. This validates the folkloric medicinal use of this plant by the indigenous people of Aliero, Kebbi State
ABSTRACT
Background and Objectives: Meat pie is a popular ready-to-eat food sold in Nigeria and is consumed by people of all classes and category. The study aimed to determine the incidence and susceptibility of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus isolated from meat pie to antibiotics commonly administered in Makurdi.Material and Methods: A total of 180 samples were collected and evaluated for bacterial contamination and presence of antibiotic-resistant Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Contaminants were isolated and identified using biochemical test. Antimicrobial susceptibility of isolates was determined using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method.Results: Eleven bacterial genera was identified. Bacillus spp (85%) occurred most frequently, followed by Staphylococcus aureus (38.9%), while Edwardsiella spp (2.8%) occured the least. Staphylococcus aureus was highly resistant to Cloxacillin (87.1%) but highly susceptible to Ofloxacin (88.6%). Escherichia coli was resistant to Amoxycillin, Tetracycline, Cloxacillin and Augmentin but susceptible to Gentamicin and Ofloxacin. Conclusion: Meat pie sold in Makurdi habours Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli with multiple antibiotic resistance. Regulation of the production and retail process of meat pie is advocated as a possible means of reducing contamination and the risk of transferring antibiotic resistant bacteria to consumers.
ABSTRACT
Aim: To evaluate sexual differences using demarking point and index of sexual dimorphism from the length of talus in relation to age among male and female north-eastern Nigerians. Study Design: Retrospective Study. Place and Duration of Study: Departments of Human Anatomy and Radiology, University of Maiduguri and University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) respectively, Borno State, Nigeria between October 2010 to March 2012. Methodology: Three hundred and twelve (312) radiographs of adult north-eastern Nigerians (156 males and 156 females) with ages ranged from 20 to 69 years were measured. Radiographs used for this study were obtained from the collection of records unit of Radiology Department of UMTH in Borno State, Nigeria. Radiographic viewing box, erasable maker, meter rule were used for the measurements. Both female and male samples were grouped into two separate subsamples (right and left talus). Samples were classified into five (5) age groups which spanned ten years interval. The lateral views of the plain radiographs of the ankle were mounted on viewing box connected to a light source which gave good illumination. Antero-posterior length (APL) of the talus was measured as a linear distance between the most anterior point on the head of talus and the most posterior point on the body of the talus) using a calibrated meter rule. Results: The means of APL for males are all significantly greater than their female counterparts of the same age group. The results also show statistically significant (p<0.001) differences between the lengths of talus in males and females. The values of demarking points (DP) in males were higher than in females. The Index of sexual dimorphisms (ISDs) are greater than 100 which suggest that males have higher value over female counterparts. The result also show age related variation with male APL range from 5.82 cm at 60-69 years age group to 6.21 cm at 30-39 years age group; while female APL range from 5.27 cm at 60-69 years age group to 5.56 cm at 30-39 years age group. Conclusion: It was observed that the APLs of talus are sexually dimorphic; the DPs of male are all higher than those of female Counterparts. ISD also shows that, male APLs are greater than those of the female counterparts: because the ISDs were all greater than 100 at all age groups. However more studies are required in other part of Nigeria, so as to capture the racial variation of Nigeria.
ABSTRACT
Background: As women increasingly delay child bearing, the proportion of women having their first delivery at ''advanced maternal age'' is expected to rise. These elderly primigravidae have traditionally been considered to be at increased risk of adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes compared to their younger counterparts, because of associated pregnancy and labour complications. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of elderly primigravidae and compare their pregnancy outcome with that of younger primigravidae in Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano. Materials And Methods: This was a retrospective case control study comparing the pregnancy outcome of primigravid mothers aged 35 years and above (elderly primigravidae) with those of younger primigravidae aged 20-25 years, who delivered at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital between January 2009 and December 2013. Results: There were 18,452 deliveries during the period under review, out of which 295 were primigravidae aged 35 years or above giving a prevalence of 1.6%. There was statistically significant higher preterm delivery rate ( X2= 10.30, P= 0.001) and caesarean delivery rate (X2= 12.15, P= 0.0001) among the elderly primigravidae compared to younger primigravidae. The elderly primigravidae were more prone to hypertensive disorders in pregnancy (X2=23.96, P=0.0001) and diabetes (X2=4.689, P=0.030) compared to the younger primigravidae. The prevalence of antepartum haemorrhage (X2=6.434, P=0.011) and uterine fibroids (X2=5.549, P=0.019) were also statistically significant among the elderly primigravidae compared to the younger primigravidae. There was no significant difference in the other maternal and foetal outcome measures. Conclusion: The prevalence of elderly primigravidae in this study was 1.6%. The prevalence of obstetric complications such as preterm delivery, antepartum haemorrhage, uterine fibroids coexisting with pregnancy and medical conditions like hypertensive disorders in pregnancy and diabetes mellitus are higher among elderly primigravidae compared to younger primigravidae. The elderly primigravidae were also more liable to have caesarean deliveries than the younger primigravidae. However there was no difference in the fetal outcome in the two groups
Subject(s)
Gravidity , Nigeria , Obstetric Labor Complications , Pregnancy Outcome , Premature Birth , PrevalenceABSTRACT
Non-human primates (NHPs) are distributed worldwide and have several unique features that may account for opportunistic and pathogenic zoonotic bacteria. Aim: To evaluate the incidence of enteric organisms with zoonotic and biohazard potential in captive NHPs in a zoo setting. Study Design: Descriptive study. Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria between June-September, 2012. Methodology: We examined 33 clinically healthy young adult monkeys and apes over a three months interval. The animals were sampled at six weeks intervals by faecal culture. Samples were inoculated on appropriate media using specific selective culture methods. Suspect isolates potentially transmissible to humans were purified and identified based on their cultural and biochemical characteristics. Results: The survey revealed six (6) bacterial pathogens using API 20E, Escherichia coli (100.0%), Salmonella paratyphi A 31(93.9%), Proteus mirabilis 14(42.4%), Campylobacter species 6(18.2%), Citrobacter ferundii 7(21.2%), and Yersinia enterocolitica 3(9.1%). Conclusion: The incidence of infections during the period of study (first week and the twelfth week) indicated increased patterns of transmission between species of primates. Research among primate populations has the potential to predict which pathogens might enter human populations as human contact with these animals both in captivity and in the wild is on the increase.
ABSTRACT
Urinary tract infections [UTIs] are the most common cause of nosocomial infection and up to 80% of UTIs are associated with the use of urinary catheter. Inappropriate use of this device may lead to an increase incidence of infectious complications. It has been estimated that 65 % of nosocomial infections are biofilm associated urinary tract infections, loading the health care system enormous costs. These biofilm infections are 10 to 1000 times more resistant to the effects of antimicrobial agents. In this study urine samples were collected from 150 patients with CAUTI [group 1] giving one hundred and fifty bacterial isolates and 70 non catheterized UTI patients [group 2] giving fifty bacterial isolates. Out of the two hundred isolates the most common isolated pathogens were: Escherichia coli[E.coli] [50%] in group I, [48%] in group 2, followed by Klebsiella [26.7%] in group J, [28%] in group 2, pseudomonas aeruginosa [8%] in group 1, [12%] in group 2 then Staphylococcus aureus [8.6%] in group 1, [4.%] in group 2, Proteus [4.6%] in group 1, [4%] in group 2, and lastly, Candida albicans [2%] in group 1,[4. %] in group 2. The E.coli isolates were evaluated for biofilm formation using congo red agar [CRA] and microtitre plate methods. Out of 99 E.coli isolates; 27 were non biofilm forming in group 1, 19 isolates in group 2 while 48 isolates were biofilm forming in group 7, only 5 isolates in group 2 . Using microtitre plate method; out of 48 biofilm forming isolates in group 1; 8 isolates [16.6%] were weak biofilm forming, 10 [20.8%] were moderate biofilm and 30 isolates [62.5%] were strong biofilm forming while, 3 isolates were weak biofilm forming in group2. The two methods used to detect biofilm formation [CRA test and spectrophotometer], both are valid tests. CRA is simpler but spectrophotometer differentiates between weak and strong biofilm producers
ABSTRACT
Combination of herbal plants may produce synergistic, additive or antagonistic effects. A concoction prepared from the aqueous leaf extracts of Azadirachta indica (ALEAI), Magnifera indica (ALEMI), Carica papaya (ALECP) has been used in the treatment of malaria in some parts of Ghana. In the present study, ALEAI, ALEMI, ALECP and their combination (AMC) were evaluated in vivo for antiplasmodial activities using Plasmodium berghei infected BALB/c mice. Freeze-dried extracts of the combined therapy as well as those of the individual plants were tested in vivo on Plasmodium berghei infected BALB/c mice at 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg dosages. Coartem at 20 mg/kg and water were used as positive and negative controls respectively. Cryptolepsis sanquinolata was also used as a positive control. The extracts showed varying antiplasmodial activities using Four day suppressive and Seven day repository tests. The antiplasmodial activities of the extracts were significant compared with the negative control (P<0.05). Exceptions were ALECP at 50 mg/kg (3.98%) and the combined therapy (AMC) at 100 mg/kg (4.36%) which were only significant in the repository test. Although the combined therapy at 50 mg/kg showed the highest chemo-suppression (54.07%) when compared with the individual test extracts (ALECP = 19.13%; ALEMI = 51.81% and ALEAI = 48.95%) at similar dose, the activity was neither a demonstration of synergistic nor additive effect. These results suggest that the active components in the various single plant extracts may overlap in their modes of action. At dose 100 mg/kg, the AMC showed the least chemo-suppression suggesting an increased amount of a possible antagonistic component. Phytochemical screening of the various aqueous extracts revealed the presence of bioactive compounds with reported antiplasmodial properties. The LD50 recorded for the various extracts was greater than 5000 mg/kg. In conclusion, ALEAI, ALEMI, ALECP and their combination (AMC) possess antiplasmodial properties and this supports their use in folkloric medical setting in treating malaria.
ABSTRACT
The relationship between blood pressure (BP) and obesity is still controversial; and was studied in a population of young-adult Nigerians. Systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP) were measured using an oscillometric device while relevant anthropometric indices were measured and derived using standard protocol. Body fat (BF) was measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis. The Pearson's correlation coefficients were calculated for the general population and based on BP phenotype; and scatter plots generated (for both sexes). The results show that in the general population; SBP was correlated with BF (males; r = +0.093; P 0.01; females; r 0.05) correlated with either BF or BMI. The BP versus BF or BMI curve shows sex variations; and plateaus once the BP value exceeds 120/80 mmHg. This dichotomous relationship implies that weight management may be useful in hypertension prevention in normotensive subjects; but may not be very useful; as a therapeutic option; in hypertensives
Subject(s)
Arterial Pressure , Blood Pressure , Body Mass Index , Drug Interactions , Hypertension , Obesity , Young AdultABSTRACT
Objective: This paper identifies the key barriers to mental health policy implementation in Ghana and suggests ways of overcoming them. Method: The study used both quantitative and qualitative methods. Quantitatively; the WHO Mental Health Policy and Plan Checklist and the WHO Mental Health Legislation Checklist were employed to analyse the content of mental health policy; plans and legislation in Ghana. Qualitative data was gathered using in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with key stakeholders in mental health at the macro; meso and micro levels. These were used to identify barriers to the implementation of mental health policy; and steps to overcoming these. Results: Barriers to mental health policy implementation identified by participants include: low priority and lack of political commitment to mental health; limited human and financial resources; lack of intersectoral collaboration and consultation; inadequate policy dissemination; and an absence of research-based evidence to inform mental health policy. Suggested steps to overcoming the barriers include: revision of mental health policy and legislation; training and capacity development and wider consultation. Conclusion: These results call for well-articulated plans to address the barriers to the implementation of mental health policy in Ghana to reduce the burden associated with mental disorders
Subject(s)
Ghana , Health Plan Implementation , Health Policy , Legislation as Topic , Mental HealthABSTRACT
A prospective observational study of the risk factors of pre-eclampsia in Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital; Kano; Nigeria over a 5 year period was conducted. The socio-demographic characteristics and obstetric variables of 212 women who had pre-eclampsia and delivered in our unit; were compared with that of the other women who delivered in our unit but did not have pre-eclampsia during the period of study. The data obtained were analyzed using Epi-Info Version 6.0 (CDC Atlanta USA). Chi-square test was used to compare groups for significant differences. P-value of less than 0.05 was considered significant. The odds ratio (OR) and 95confidence interval (CI) were determined. Extremes of reproductive age and parity; low socioeconomic and unbooked status; positive family history of hypertention and ecess weight gain were found to be significant risk factors. Provision of free or subsidized and accessible antenatal care services; campaign for female education and employment; as well as acceptance of modern family planning methods; will prevent pregnancies at extremes of reproductive age; grandmultiparity; and unbooked status; and reduce the prevalence of pre-eclampsia
Subject(s)
Hospitals, Teaching , Nigeria , Pre-Eclampsia , Risk Factors , WomenABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Teenage pregnancies are regarded as high risk; because they often occur outside marriage. There is the need to evaluate the outcome of teenage pregnancies in a predominantly Islamic society like Kano where most occur within marriage; and timely prenatal care is usually available to most of them. OBJECTIVE: To review the obstetric outcome of teenage primigravida in Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital; Kano; Nigeria. METHODS: A retrospective case-control study of 500 booked teenage primigravidae; who delivered in our labour ward from January 2002 to December 2005 (study group) was performed. Their obstetric outcome was compared with that of an equal number of booked primigravidae aged 20-34 years; who met the recruitment criteria and delivered immediately after a selected teenage mother (control group). The study variables of interest were the demographic characteristics of the women in the two groups; antenatal/intrapartum complications and neonatal outcome. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in the mean birth weight; mean gestational age at delivery; mean height and perinatal mortality between the two groups; but mean maternal weight and body mass index (BMI) were higher among the older women. The teenage mothers had increased incidence of preterm labour and low birth weight infants (P 0.05). The incidence of caesarean section and instrumental deliveries were lower among the teenage mothers. CONCLUSION: The results of this study show that teenage mothers who receive good family and community support; timely quality antenatal care and deliver in the hospital; should expect similar obstetric outcome to that of their older peers
Subject(s)
Obstetrics , Pregnancy Outcome , Pregnancy in AdolescenceABSTRACT
In hepatitis c virus [HCV] patients, the progression rate of fibrosis in relation to the liver enzymes is unknown. The aim of this study was done to assess the progression rate of fibrosis and to compare HCV patient normal ALT liver enzyme with HCV patients with elevated ALT. Hislological lesions were stayed using the metavir score we defined fibrosis stage progression per year as the ratio of the fibrosis stage in metavir units to the duration of infection. 72-HCV patient were included in each group. In group I liver enzymes values were normal, and lower than in group II [ALT 24 vs. 140 I u/L; p < 0.0001]. HCV RNA was less frequently in-group I [66% vs.97%; p < .0001]. Histological activities were lower in group I [0.6 vs. 1.36; p< .0001]. The stage of fibrosis was lower in group I [0.95 vs .1.8; p < .001]. The mean progression rate of fibrosis was lower in group I [0.06 vs 0.14; p< .001] HCV patient with normal ALT showed weaker histological activity and lower fibrosis scores, and the progression rate of fibrosis was twice as slow as in HCV patient with elevated ALT
Subject(s)
Humans , Male , Female , Biomarkers , Hepacivirus , Alanine Transaminase , Hepatitis C Antibodies , gamma-Glutamyltransferase , Biopsy , Liver/pathology , Liver Cirrhosis/pathology , FibrosisABSTRACT
Whenever an unexpected neuropsychiatric disorder arises suddenly in a person of good previous mental health after a new drug of any kind has been taken it is reasonable to suspect a drug-induced reaction. The suspected medication should then be stopped. Adverse reactions to drugs are known to account for a considerable amount of neuro-psychiatric disorder, which is likely to increase as new and more potent drugs are introduced into clinical practice.
Subject(s)
Humans , Psychoses, Substance-Induced , ClassificationABSTRACT
Whenever an unexpected neuropsychiatric disorder arises suddenly in a person of good previous mental health after a new drug of any kind has been taken it is reasonable to suspect a drug-induced reaction. The suspected medication should then be stopped. Adverse reactions to drugs are known to account for a considerable amount of neuro-psychiatric disorder, which is likely to increase as new and more potent drugs are introduced into clinical practice.
Subject(s)
Mental DisordersABSTRACT
We report here two sets of results on proline-containing linear peptides, one of which brings out the role of the β-turn conformation in the structure of nascent collagen while the other points to the functional importance of the β-turn in calcium-binding proteins. Based on the data on peptides containing the -Pro-Gly- sequence, we had proposed and experimentally verified that the β-turn conformation in these peptides is a structural requirement for the enzymic hydroxylation of the proline residues in the nascent (unhydroxylated) procollagen molecule. Our recent data, presented here, on the conformation of peptides containing both the -Pro-Gly- and -Gly-Pro- sequences reveal that while the β-turn in the substrate molecule is required at the catalytic site of prolyl hydroxylase, the polyproline-II structure is necessary for effective binding at the active site of the enzyme. Thus, peptides containing either the β-turn or the polyproline-II structure alone are found to act only as inhibitors while those with the polyproline-II followed by β-turn serve as substrates of the enzyme. In another study, we have synthesized the two linear peptides: Boc-Pro-D-Ala-Ala- NHCH3 and Boc-Pro-Gly-Ala-NHCH3 each of which adopts, in solution, a structure with two consecutive β-turns, as judged from circular dichroism, infrared and nuclear magnetic resonance data. Drastic spectral changes are seen in these peptides on binding to Ca2+. Both the peptides show a distinct specificity to Ca2+ over Mg2+, Na+ and Li+. A conformational change in the peptides occurs on Ca2+ binding which brings together the carbonyl groups to coordinate with the metal ion. These results imply a functional role for the β-turn in Ca2+ - binding proteins.