Page 157 - SAMRC AnnualReport 2025-26

P E R FOR M A NC E I N FOR M A T I ON

A key objective of the preeclampsia project is to
identify genomic and epigenetic factors associated
with disease susceptibility, while also assessing
the genetic risk of developing chronic kidney and
cardiovascular disease among African women living
in South Africa.

The breast cancer project identified genetic
biomarkers associated with differences in disease-
free survival among patients receiving tamoxifen
treatment. In parallel, the project is investigating
potential drug-drug interactions using cell-line
models informed by drug combinations observed Learners open day 2025 during
in real-world patient data. information session.

Collectively, these projects are advancing
understanding of disease susceptibility and
treatment response, with the aim of supporting
more personalised and effective interventions for
African populations.
Building Capacity Through

Training, Mentorship, and Support

The Unit provides structured mentorship and
training in genomics, bioinformatics, data analysis,
and the ethical, legal, and social implications of
research within African contexts. These initiatives
support early-career researchers, postgraduate
students, and technical staff.

Learners open day 2025 with Dr Mnika.

Learners attending the learners open day 2025 Dr Mnika demonstrating how to do DNA
from Limpopo and Eastern Cape schools. extractions to honours and new PhD student.

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