Centre for Molecular Biosciences & Genomics

Genomics and the Fight Against Antimicrobial Resistance Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is currently one of the biggest threats to public health. The misuse of antibiotics has led to the development of AMR since the advent of antibiotics. By 2050, it is estimated that 10 million deaths will occur annually due to #AMR. Infections such as TB and STIs are increasingly becoming difficult to treat due to the emergence of AMR. #Genomics is a powerful tool in the fight against AMR, offering useful data into the mechanisms of AMR and the development of new drugs through the identification of potential drug targets. By sequencing the genomes of pathogens, researchers can identify specific genetic #mutations that confer resistance to antibiotics. This information is crucial for developing targeted drugs, guiding the use of existing drugs, and tracking the spread of resistant strains in real-time. Moreover, genomic data can aid in the discovery of new antibiotics and alternative treatments, providing hope in the fight against AMR. Collaborative efforts in genomics research are essential to combat the evolving threat of resistance and safeguard public health for future generations. Contact us at CMB Genomics to learn more about our infrastructure projects and explore partnership opportunities. Let’s build a brighter future for genomic research in Africa. Reference: UNEP: https://lnkd.in/dws9t4gB. #Genomics #AntimicrobialResistance #AMR #PublicHealth #GenomicResearch #InfectiousDiseases

The Gut Microbiome and Antibiotic Resistance Did you know that about 50% of healthy individuals carry antibiotic-resistant bacteria in their gut? Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) causes 2.8 million infections and 35,000 deaths annually in the U.S. alone. Projections indicate that #AMR will cause 10 million deaths worldwide by 2050. Antibiotics target harmful pathogens but also eliminate beneficial bacteria and thus disrupt the gut #microbiome. This disruption creates an environment where antibiotic-resistant bacteria can thrive. As these resistant strains proliferate, the risk of gene transfer increases, making infections more difficult to treat due to limited treatment options. With fewer effective antibiotics available, treating common infections becomes increasingly challenging. This results in longer hospital stays, higher medical costs, and greater mortality. Tackling AMR requires careful use of antibiotics, better infection control practices, and improved surveillance. Genomics is key to improving surveillance efforts. Whole-genome sequencing (#WGS) has enabled scientists to identify specific genes and mutations responsible for resistance. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) allows scientists to identify specific genes and mutations responsible for resistance. It also helps track the spread and evolution of resistant strains and their mechanisms. To better control AMR, we can develop targeted treatments and refine surveillance methods using WGS data. At CMB Genomics, we are keen to use genomics technologies to contribute to AMR #surveillance efforts. We invite healthcare professionals, researchers, and funding agencies to partner with us in AMR research. Contact us at CMB Genomics to learn more about our work and explore collaboration opportunities. Together, we can revolutionize healthcare for African patients through the power of genomics. #Genomics #AMR #Antibioticresistance #Publichealth #Sureveillance #WGS

The Role of Genomics in Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) Genomics has revolutionized non-invasive prenatal testing (#NIPT), providing safer and more accurate ways to assess foetal health. NIPT analyzes cell-free foetal DNA (cffDNA) circulating in the mother’s blood to detect #genetic conditions such as trisomies (e.g., Down syndrome) and sex chromosome abnormalities. This advanced method eliminates the need for invasive procedures like amniocentesis, reducing the risk of miscarriage. Advancements in next-generation sequencing (#NGS) allow detailed analysis of foetal DNA, enabling early diagnosis of genetic disorders. Beyond detecting chromosomal anomalies, genomics in NIPT holds potential for identifying single-gene mutations linked to conditions such as #cysticfibrosis or #sicklecelldisease. The integration of #bioinformatics tools further enhances the precision of genomic testing, making NIPT a cornerstone of personalized and preventive medicine. As technology advances, genomics promises to expand the scope of NIPT, empowering families with critical insights into their unborn child’s health. #Genomics #PrenatalTesting #NonInvasivePrenatalTesting #NIPT #CellFreeDNA #FoetalHealth #NextGenSequencing #GeneticTesting

Genomics in Neglected Tropical Diseases Research Genomics plays a pivotal role in advancing research on neglected tropical diseases (#NTDs), offering insights into disease vectors, #drugresistance, and host-parasite interactions. By profiling disease vectors, #genomics helps track the evolution of resistance to control measures, enabling the development of more effective interventions. Additionally, it aids in understanding host-parasite interactions at the molecular level, revealing potential drug targets for more targeted therapies. The identification of genetic markers linked to drug resistance is also critical for monitoring treatment efficacy and developing new therapies. At CMB Genomics, we are dedicated to NTD #research. One of our recent projects investigated the prevalence of female genital schistosomiasis among women of reproductive age in Kilifi using PCR, revealing a high prevalence rate of 36.0%. Our work underscores the importance of genomics in addressing NTDs and highlights our commitment to innovative solutions for improving global health outcomes. #NTDs #Genomics #Molecularbiology #AMR #Drugdiscovery #Schistosomiasis #FGS

Pharmacogenomics: Enhancing Cancer Treatment with Precision Medicine #Pharmacogenomics, the study of how genes influence an individual’s response to drugs, is transforming cancer treatment by making it more #precise and #personalized. This innovative field allows clinicians to tailor therapies based on a patient’s genetic makeup, optimizing efficacy and minimizing adverse effects. In oncology, pharmacogenomics helps identify genetic variations that influence drug metabolism, drug targets, or cancer susceptibility. For example, testing for #HER2 overexpression in breast cancer patients enables targeted therapy with trastuzumab, significantly improving outcomes. Similarly, mutations in #EGFR or #ALK genes in lung cancer patients guide the use of tyrosine kinase inhibitors, offering better survival rates compared to standard treatments. Pharmacogenomic testing also mitigates risks of severe drug toxicity. Variants in genes like DPYD can predict fluoropyrimidine sensitivity, helping adjust dosages or choose alternative treatments for colorectal or gastric cancers. As cancer research advances, integrating pharmacogenomics into clinical practice ensures therapies are not just about treating cancer—but about treating your #cancer. #Pharmacogenomics #CancerTreatment #Cancer #EGFR #HER2 #ALK #PrecisionMedicine #Oncology #Genomics

Applications of Genomics in Forensics #Genomics is redefining #forensicscience by providing unprecedented tools for solving crimes, identifying individuals, and uncovering historical mysteries. DNA analysis, a cornerstone of modern forensics, has been supercharged by advancements in molecular biology and genomics, enabling more accurate, efficient, and comprehensive investigations. Forensic genomics allows for the analysis of minute DNA samples, even those degraded or mixed, through next-generation sequencing (#NGS). It supports the identification of suspects or victims via genetic profiles and has played a pivotal role in cracking cold cases. Beyond identification, genomics can determine phenotypic traits, such as ancestry, eye color, or hair color, giving investigators leads when no direct match is found. Applications extend to disaster victim identification, resolving cases of missing persons, and exonerating the wrongfully convicted through re-analysis of evidence. Genomics is also contributing to #wildlifeforensics, combating poaching and illegal trade by tracing genetic origins of seized animal products. Genomics continues to revolutionize forensics, merging science and justice. #Forensics #Genomics #MolecularBiology #Sequencing #NGS #WildlifeForensics #Conservation #DNAAnalysis

Genomics in Syndromic Disease Management The integration of #genomics into #syndromic disease management is revolutionizing healthcare by enabling precise diagnosis and tailored treatment strategies. Syndromic diseases, characterized by complex and overlapping symptoms, often pose diagnostic challenges. Genomics bridges this gap by uncovering the genetic underpinnings of these conditions, allowing for accurate identification and differentiation. For example, genomic #sequencing can identify rare mutations responsible for diseases like Marfan syndrome, Rett syndrome, or mitochondrial disorders. Early genetic diagnosis reduces diagnostic times, ensuring patients receive timely, targeted interventions. Furthermore, understanding the genetic basis of syndromic diseases enables personalized treatment plans, improving patient outcomes. Genomics also supports reproductive counseling, helping families assess the risk of passing genetic conditions to future generations. Additionally, advancements like #wholegenomesequencing and #transcriptomics are shedding light on gene-environment interactions, paving the way for innovative therapies. #Genomics #SyndromicDiseases #PrecisionMedicine #Transcriptomics #WGS #RNASequencing

Genetic Testing for Hereditary Diseases #Genetic testing is revolutionizing healthcare by providing invaluable insights into #hereditary diseases. By identifying mutations in specific genes, it empowers individuals and families to take proactive steps in managing their health. Whether it's assessing the risk of conditions like #BRCA-related cancers, #sicklecelldisease, or hereditary heart conditions, genetic testing paves the way for early intervention and personalized care. For hereditary diseases, genetic testing can reveal whether an individual carries a #mutation that increases their risk or could be passed to future generations. Tests can identify conditions like Huntington's disease, cystic fibrosis, or Lynch syndrome, enabling early screening and management strategies. This is particularly crucial for families with a history of specific diseases, as early detection can significantly influence outcomes. Advancements in #genetictesting continue to make it more accurate, accessible, and informative, promising a brighter future in understanding and preventing hereditary conditions. #Genetics #Genomics #Cancer #SickleCellDisease #HereditaryDiseases #HealthInnovation #PrecisionMedicine

Meet the Team: Arnold Ratemo Our team member, Arnold Ratemo, MSc., is undertaking a research project to elucidate the genetic aetiology of female infertility of unknown origin using #WholeExomeSequencing (WES). This study seeks to analyze genetic variants within protein-coding regions of the genome in women experiencing unexplained infertility, with the aim of identifying pathogenic variants that underpin the molecular mechanisms contributing to #infertility. He will integrate #bioinformatics tools such as GATK and ANNOVAR for variant calling, annotation, and functional analysis. Statistical approaches will be employed to detect enriched genomic alterations within the infertile cohort. To further refine insights, #R programming will be utilized for data visualization, variant prioritization, and functional categorization, ensuring biologically relevant interpretations of the data. By leveraging the potential of genome-wide approaches, this research can transform our understanding of infertility, particularly in cases with undetermined causes. The goal is to provide molecular insights that can inform #precisionmedicine approaches, enabling clinicians to develop targeted diagnostics and therapeutic interventions. This project represents a critical step toward revealing the genetic underpinnings of infertility and could significantly advance the field of reproductive genomics, offering renewed hope to patients navigating the challenges of infertility. #Bioinformatics #WholeExomeSequencing #FunctionalGenomics #MolecularDiagnostics #Biostatistics #ReproductiveGenomics #FemaleInfertility #WomensHealth

The Link between Urogenital Schistosomiasis and Bladder Cancer Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease affecting over 200 million people worldwide. Current research has shown that schistosomiasis is associated with bladder cancer. Chronic infection with Schistosoma haematobium causes long-term inflammation and tissue damage, creating an environment conducive to cancer development. This type of bladder cancer, known as squamous cell carcinoma, is particularly prevalent in regions where schistosomiasis is endemic, such as sub-Saharan Africa. Despite this connection, schistosomiasis often goes unnoticed, leaving millions vulnerable to severe health complications. Prevention and early treatment are critical. Integrated efforts, including water sanitation, health education, mass drug administration, and diagnostic advancements, can break the cycle of infection and disease progression. Let’s raise awareness about this silent driver of cancer and advocate for sustainable interventions. Together, we can improve health outcomes and reduce the global burden of schistosomiasis and its complications. Hellen Wambui Global Schistosomiasis Alliance #GlobalHealth #Schistosomiasis #UrogenitalSchistosomiasis #BladderCancer #OneHealth #Cancer #CancerResearch