Nigerian Scientists Achieve Breakthrough: Oyster Mushrooms Yield Groundbreaking Cardiovascular Medication
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Loading... - Precious Ekajeh
- 31 May 2023
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In a remarkable feat of innovation, the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) of Nigeria has successfully developed a cutting-edge cardiovascular drug using oyster mushrooms. The groundbreaking discovery emerged from the diligent efforts of the agency's researchers, who patented their findings and further developed the medication at the esteemed Professor Hussaini Ibrahim Technology and Innovation Center.
Engr. Florence Madueguna, the dedicated Project Officer at the center, revealed that this exceptional drug, named Lovastatin, boasts remarkable properties for reducing cholesterol levels within the human body. She enthusiastically stated, "The significance of this breakthrough cannot be overstated, as it propelled our agency to secure first place at the 7th Science, Technology, and Innovation Expo, accompanied by a substantial prize. The production of Lovastatin from oyster mushrooms and red-yield rice is made possible through the ingenuity of our scientists, who created the patent and refined the process within this very laboratory. To ensure widespread availability, we are actively collaborating with the private sector for large-scale production."
Lovastatin, naturally occurring in food sources like oyster mushrooms and red yeast rice, serves as the active ingredient in Oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) that thrive abundantly in Nigeria. Typically containing approximately 2.8% lovastatin, the concentration may vary depending on factors such as fruiting size, age, and substrate composition.
Belonging to the statin drug class, Lovastatin effectively mitigates the risk of heart attacks and strokes, offering significant benefits for cardiovascular health. This white, non-hygroscopic crystalline powder demonstrates solubility in water and limited solubility in ethanol, methanol, and acetonitrile. Acting as a secondary raw material, it is skillfully combined with other drug carriers and essential nutrients to formulate various statin medications, available in different dosages and marketed under diverse brand names.
Chukwuma Ngaha, Deputy Director of the Public Affairs and Corporate Services Department, emphasized the pivotal role of the center in Nigeria's scientific landscape. With a vast array of 21 distinct plants that yield diverse raw materials sourced domestically, the facility stands as a testament to the agency's commitment to self-sufficiency. The majority of the machinery within the center has been custom-designed and fabricated by the agency's own scientific experts, further highlighting their dedication and expertise.
