Publications

Parkinson's disease (PD), a neurodegenerative disorder affecting over 10 million people globally, has been linked to alterations in gut microbiota composition. This review explores the gut-brain axis and its association with PD, analyzing evidence from reputable studies. It highlights how gut microbiota may influence PD progression through mechanisms involving the gut-brain axis and discusses the role of prebiotics and probiotics in managing gastrointestinal and neurological conditions. Understanding these interactions could pave the way for novel therapeutic approaches. The review also emphasizes the need for further research on the microbiota-brain axis's impact on PD to advance treatment strategies.

Malaria remains a global health crisis, with 247 million cases and 627,000 deaths reported in 2021. Sub-Saharan Africa bears the greatest burden, particularly among pregnant women and children under five. Vaccine development faces challenges, including drug-resistant parasites, complex lifecycles, and immune evasion. The RTS, S/AS01 vaccine has shown efficacy in African children, but introducing other vaccines has been slow. Recent advances highlight combining pre-erythrocytic and blood-stage vaccines, leveraging mRNA technology, and scalable nonstructural vaccines. Multi-antigen, multi-stage vaccines are essential for eradication, despite the need for improved understanding of immune responses and molecular targets.

Chronic toxoplasmosis, caused by Toxoplasma gondii, is a common foodborne protozoan infection linked to mental disorders. The parasite disrupts the gut microbiota, triggering inflammation and degrading tryptophan, essential for its growth. The microbiota–gut–brain axis regulates serotonergic pathways, influencing circadian rhythms and cognitive functions. Intermittent fasting can enhance serotonin biosynthesis and improve brain health. This review explores how fasting mitigates parasite-driven gut microbiome imbalances and T. gondii's effects on brain function. Highlighting the socio-economic, dietary, and mental health impacts of toxoplasmosis, it advocates for lifestyle changes and education to prevent this overlooked threat, promoting global health and societal resilience.

The Anthropocene epoch highlights humanity’s profound impact on the planet, posing urgent ecological and health crises. Addressing these challenges requires uniting cultural, ethical, and spiritual perspectives. Islam, as the Religion of Nature (Din al-Fitrah), offers environmental and moral teachings that emphasize accountability, interconnectedness, and stewardship. Muslim religious leaders play a pivotal role in shaping worldviews and inspiring collective action for planetary health, alongside leaders of other faiths. This article explores the intersection of Islamic teachings and planetary health, advocating for collaboration across religions to foster sustainability, justice, and global well-being in response to the Anthropocene's challenges.

The growing demand for rare earth metals (REMs) driven by industrialization and globalization has raised concerns over their environmental and health impacts. Widely used in medicine, renewable energy, electronics, and agriculture, REMs pose significant risks to ecosystems and human health, particularly as contamination spreads with increasing production. Africa, with its abundant REM deposits, faces challenges related to sustainable mining practices, safety protocols, and waste management. This article highlights the urgent need for planetary health-centered solutions to address REM exploitation in Africa, emphasizing eco-friendly practices, public health awareness, and policies to safeguard future generations.