International Research and Academic scholar society

IRASS Journal of Multidisciplinary Studies

Issue-1(January), Volume-3 2026

1. Epigenetic Modulation in Disease: Mechanisms, Biomarkers, and Therapeu...
2

Yasir Haider Al-Mawlah*, Husse...
DNA Research Center, University of Babylon, Babylon city, Hillah, 51001, Iraq
1-5
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18136674

Epigenetic regulation involves heritable changes in gene expression that do not alter the underlying DNA sequence. The importance of epigenetics in the pathogenesis of various diseases has become increasingly apparent, as it regulates crucial processes such as cell differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis. This systematic review aims to comprehensively explore the mechanisms of epigenetic regulation, its role in disease, emerging biomarkers for disease detection, and potential therapeutic strategies targeting epigenetic alterations. Mechanisms like DNA methylation, histone modifications, non-coding RNA regulation, and chromatin remodeling contribute to the onset and progression of cancers, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and metabolic conditions. Recent advances in epigenetic therapies, such as DNA methylation inhibitors, histone deacetylase inhibitors, and gene editing technologies, hold great promise for therapeutic intervention. This review discusses these developments in detail and explores how epigenetic therapies can be integrated into personalized medicine.

2. Integrating Multi-Omics Approaches for Precision Oncology: Current Sta...
1

Yasir Haider Al-Mawlah*, Husse...
DNA Research Center, University of Babylon, Babylon city, Hillah, 51001, Iraq
6-10
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18136691

The paradigm of oncology is undergoing a fundamental shift from a one-size-fits-all approach towards precision medicine, which seeks to tailor diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to the unique molecular characteristics of an individual's tumor [1]. Genomics has been the cornerstone of this revolution, enabling the identification of driver mutations and facilitating the development of targeted therapies [2]. However, the persistent challenges of intra-tumoral heterogeneity, clonal evolution, and therapeutic resistance have underscored the limitations of a purely genomic viewpoint [3]. The genome represents a static blueprint, and its functional output is dynamically regulated through multiple layers of biological complexity. This recognition has catalyzed the emergence of multi-omics, a holistic approach that integrates data from various molecular layers, including the transcriptome, proteome, and metabolome [4]. This systematic review synthesizes the current status and future perspectives of integrating these multi-omics approaches for advancing precision oncology. We detail how each omics layer—genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics—contributes unique and complementary insights into tumor biology. We then focus on the synergistic power of their integration, which provides a systems-level understanding capable of deciphering intricate tumor phenotypes, predicting therapy response and resistance, and identifying novel biomarkers [5]. Despite the significant promise, substantial challenges remain in data integration, computational analysis, standardization, and clinical implementation [6]. The future of precision oncology hinges on overcoming these hurdles through the development of robust bioinformatic tools, the validation of multi-omics biomarkers in large-scale prospective trials, and the translation of these sophisticated approaches into routine, actionable clinical practice [7]. The ultimate goal is the construction of a dynamic, multi-dimensional molecular atlas for each patient, paving the way for truly personalized and predictive cancer care.]8[

3. REGIONAL INTEGRATION PROVISIONS FOR EFFICACY OF CROSS-BORDER TRADE: EN...
5

Ekiru Francis Anno*, Dorcas Lo...
Unicaf University (UUM), School of Doctoral Studies, Lilongwe, Malawi
11-21
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18150795

Promotion of economic growth and increased commerce is one of the key advantages that may be gained from East African integration, where member nations access a broader market if they remove obstacles to trade and make it easier for services and goods to move freely across international borders. The study looked at considerations of such provisions in the context of cross-border livestock trade in the Karamoja Cluster region of the Horn of Africa (HoA). The study objectives were to (i) assess the potential of cross-border livestock trade in the region, (ii) investigate the social and economic factors determining cross-border livestock trade, and (iii) define the conduct of livestock marketing activities in areas along the borderlines. The study results indicate that for the East African Community (EAC) to benefit from the integrated services for cross-border trade, enhancing market infrastructure and marketing systems, formalisation of livestock marketing practices and adopting flexible production and marketing strategies will bolster trade potential. Additionally, addressing resource-based conflicts, livestock diseases, and climate change impacts and improving access to market information are important for regional economic development. Key considerations for effective cross-border marketing include competition management, adherence to standards, efficient border crossing, regional peace and security enforcement and an increase in banking services. High export taxes, low livestock productivity, and ineffective regulations, exacerbated by climate change and resource scarcity; unnecessary increase in commodity prices due to poor market surveys; competitive rivalry from external traders; and high illiteracy rates among traders hinder their understanding and application of knowledge essential for their competitiveness and profitability in the conduct of livestock business. The study recommends that improvements in veterinary services and personnel decentralisation are essential for enhancing livestock productivity and managing diseases. Agricultural research should focus on regional livestock development challenges, support agro-based marketplaces and organization of farming systems. Actions for sustainable management of cross-border trade include stakeholders understanding livestock marketing protocol, promoting regulations and awareness of trading policies, and access to credit, which are key. Fostering trade unions, ensuring a peaceful trading environment, and managing cash transaction risks will improve competition and market pricing, benefiting livestock farmers, traders and market operations.

4. Studies on Kidney Function and Lipid Profile among Type 2 Diabetic Pat...
1

Aquel Rene Lopez*, Siaw Aaron...
Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Tetteh Quarshie Memorial Hospital, Akuapem Mampong
22-34
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18150872

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major public health concern and is frequently complicated by renal dysfunction and dyslipidemia, which significantly increase cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Evidence on the combined burden of kidney impairment and lipid abnormalities among diabetic patients in Ghana remains limited. This study assessed kidney function and lipid profile patterns and examined their relationship with glycemic control and lifestyle factors among patients with T2DM attending Tetteh Quarshie Memorial Hospital. Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 121 adults with T2DM aged ≥30 years. Data on socio-demographic characteristics and lifestyle factors were collected using a structured questionnaire. Fasting blood samples were analyzed for renal function indices, lipid profile parameters, and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) using standard laboratory methods. Dyslipidemia was defined using NCEP ATP III criteria, and kidney disease was classified according to KDIGO 2012 guidelines. Statistical analyses were performed using STATA version 18, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The mean age of participants was 61.02 ± 13.32 years, and 70.25% were female. The prevalence of dyslipidemia was 22.31%, while kidney disease was observed in 76.86% of participants. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) showed strong negative correlations with serum creatinine (r = −0.898, p < 0.001) and urea (r = −0.610, p < 0.001). Triglyceride levels were significantly higher among participants with poor glycemic control (p = 0.033), whereas other lipid parameters did not vary significantly across HbA1c categories. Advancing age, physical inactivity, and inadequate sleep duration were significantly associated with kidney disease. Conclusion: This study demonstrates a high burden of renal dysfunction and a moderate prevalence of dyslipidemia among patients with T2DM. Poor glycemic control was specifically associated with elevated triglyceride levels, while lifestyle and demographic factors played a significant role in renal impairment. Routine monitoring of renal and lipid parameters, alongside targeted lifestyle interventions, is essential to reduce diabetes-related complications.

5. Evaluating Diagnostic Methods for Transfusion-Transmitted Malaria: RDT...
1

Aquel Rene Lopez*, Abigail Lam...
Department of Medical Laboratory Science, School of Health and Allied Sciences, Baldwin University College, Accra
35-44
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18154384

Background: Transfusion-transmitted malaria (TTM) remains a significant public health concern in malaria-endemic regions such as Ghana. The persistence of Plasmodium falciparum in donated blood, often undetected, poses a risk to transfusion recipients. This study evaluates the diagnostic accuracy of Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) and microscopy in detecting P. falciparum in donor blood. Aim: To compare the diagnostic performance of RDTs and microscopy in detecting P. falciparum in stored blood samples at SDA Hospital, Accra. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 115 blood samples donated to SDA Hospital. The samples were screened using First Response RDT kits and Giemsa-stained microscopy (gold standard). Sensitivity, specificity, and parasite density were analyzed using SPSS version 26. Results: Of the 115 samples, microscopy detected P. falciparum in 8.7% of the cases, while RDTs detected 6.1%. Microscopy showed 100% sensitivity and specificity, while RDTs demonstrated 100% sensitivity and 99.1% specificity. Blood group O positive was most frequently associated with parasitemia. All infected donors were male, with parasite densities ranging from 600 to 1200 parasites/µL. Conclusion: Both RDTs and microscopy showed high diagnostic performance, but microscopy detected more positive cases. Given the residual risk of TTM, integrating both diagnostic methods in screening protocols is recommended to improve transfusion safety in malariaendemic regions.

6. Prostate Health Risks among Taxi Drivers in Ghana: Prevalence of Eleva...
0

Aquel Rene Lopez*, Benjamin An...
School of Allied Health Science, Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Baldwin University College, Accra
45-61
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18264390

Background: Prostate cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality among men worldwide, with a disproportionately high burden in low- and middle-income countries such as Ghana. Men working in informal occupations, including taxi drivers, may be at increased risk due to prolonged sedentary work, occupational stress, unhealthy dietary patterns, and limited access to preventive health services. Objective: This study assessed the prevalence of elevated Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) levels among taxi drivers at the Accra Madina Station and examined their awareness of prostate health, lifestyle and occupational risk factors, and perceived barriers to PSA screening. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 94 male taxi drivers aged ≥40 years. Data were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire and laboratory-based PSA testing using the Wamfo® Immunoassay Analyzer. Descriptive statistics summarized participant characteristics, awareness, and risk factors. Associations between socio-demographic variables, awareness, lifestyle factors, barriers, and PSA status were examined using Chi-square tests. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Ethical approval and written informed consent were obtained. Results: The prevalence of elevated PSA levels (>4.0 ng/mL) was 33%. Elevated PSA levels were more common among older drivers and those with longer driving experience. Awareness of prostate cancer was relatively high; however, specific knowledge of PSA testing and access to prostate health information were limited. No significant associations were observed between socio-demographic characteristics and awareness, lifestyle risk factors, or perceived barriers to screening. Major barriers identified included financial constraints, limited access to screening services, and social stigma, while language barriers were minimal. Conclusion: A substantial proportion of taxi drivers exhibited elevated PSA levels, indicating a high potential burden of undiagnosed prostate-related disorders within this occupational group. Despite moderate general awareness, significant gaps in actionable knowledge and access to screening persist. Targeted, occupation-focused interventions—such as subsidized PSA screening, mobile clinics at taxi stations, and culturally appropriate health education—are urgently needed to improve early detection and prostate health outcomes among taxi drivers in Ghana.





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