Page 163 - SAMRC AnnualReport 2025-26

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

Wound and Keloid Scarring
Translational Research Unit

UNIT DIRECTOR:
Prof. Nonhlanhla Khumalo
n.khumalo@uct.ac.za

Overview of the Research Unit streamline and accelerate drug testing processes.

Through its multi-omic research platforms, the Unit
The Unit focuses on understanding the molecular
mechanisms behind wound healing and keloid has identified first-in-class biomarkers associated
pathogenesis. Its research includes developing high- with dermal fibrosis. Its innovation portfolio includes
fidelity 3D scar models and advanced experimental proprietary patents for novel compounds and
platforms to enhance disease modelling and cell line technologies, while high-impact industry
therapeutic testing. A key focus is multi-omic collaborations continue to drive translational
biomarker discovery through transcriptomic and research and commercial innovation.
proteomic profiling to uncover molecular drivers
of dermal fibrosis and wound repair. The Unit also Building Capacity Through
explores bioactive plant-derived therapies and Training, Mentorship, and Support
novel compounds with therapeutic potential, while
progressing the development of bioengineered The Unit has played an important role in developing
scaffolds and skin substitutes for treating chronic scientific capacity by training and supporting PhD,
wounds. MSc, and postdoctoral fellows. It also pioneered
the SAQA-accredited Cosmetic Formulation
Key Milestones and Achievements Science programme, which has produced more

The Unit established Africa’s first immortalized than 90 graduates to date. In addition, the Unit
keloid cell line, representing a significant milestone provides targeted mentorship and research
in scar and fibrosis research on the continent. It development opportunities aimed at nurturing the
has also validated 3D keloid spheroid models that next generation of African scientists.

Keloid spheroids.

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