KNC19
Background
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant global morbidity and mortality, with over 600,000 deaths and more than 14.5 million confirmed cases as of July 2020. The virus has severely disrupted healthcare systems and economies worldwide. In the absence of specific approved treatments, there has been an urgent global effort to identify and evaluate potential therapeutic options. The World Health Organization (WHO) initiated the SOLIDARITY trial to assess four drug regimens, emphasizing the need for both international and local solutions.
In response to this call, the proposed research focuses on Cryptolepis sanguinolenta, a West African medicinal plant traditionally used in Ghana to treat malaria. Its active component, cryptolepine, has demonstrated both anti-malarial and anti-inflammatory properties. Nibima, a Cryptolepis sanguinolenta-based preparation approved by Ghana’s Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), has shown efficacy in clearing malaria parasitaemia in clinical studies.Emerging evidence suggests that SARS-CoV-2 disrupts the type I interferon (IFN-1) immune response, a key antiviral defense, while provoking strong pro-inflammatory responses. Studies have identified viral proteins such as ORF3b, RdRp, and Mpro as critical to viral replication and immune evasion—presenting key therapeutic targets. Cryptolepine’s reported ability to modulate inflammation and potentially inhibit these viral proteins highlights its promise as a candidate for repurposing against COVID-19.
Objective
Primary Objective
- To investigate the potential of a Cryptolepis sanguinolenta-based preparation (Nibima) as a treatment for COVID-19.
Specifi Objectives
- Assess the occurrence of linear growth faltering within six months after SMAD episodes compared to control children.
- Determine the clinical characteristics and complications of SMAD from presentation to recovery.
- Estimate SMAD incidence by serotype, age group, and season in children under five years.
- Determine the prevalence of antibiotic resistance among Shigella isolates.
