Page 75 - SAMRC Annual Report 2023-24

PERFORMANCE INFORMATION

Centre for Tuberculosis
Research Unit

Unit Director:

Prof. Robin Mark Warren

Prioritising responsive research infections within routine care and identifying active
through impactful interventions anti-tubercular agents from novel South African
medicinal plants, showcasing their commitment
The SAMRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research to exploring diverse research avenues. Innovative
(CTR) continues to demonstrate its commitment to approaches have led to the development of magnetic
driving impactful research across various aspects nanoparticles coated with marine bioactive drugs,
of tuberculosis. Notably, the Centre has made specifically targeting the promotion of apoptosis
substantial strides in the development of critical of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, as well as studying
diagnostic tools, such as two fingerstick blood tests factors influencing the formation and physiology
meeting the WHO's minimum target product profiles
for non-sputum triage tests, potentially paving the of persister bacteria in TB disease. Furthermore,
way for future commercialisation. This research is the study of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis IFIT2
complemented by the unit's work in developing transcriptional profile has offered new dimensions
a clinically relevant biosignature for COVID-19 for potential host-directed therapies.
mortality with significant sensitivity. Overall, the CTR's ground-breaking initiatives continue
Additionally, the integration of next-generation to drive knowledge generation in TB research.
sequencing methods into routine care has shown
promise in rapidly diagnosing drug resistance, Equitable capacity development
ultimately leading to improved treatment outcomes. for empowering communities
The CTR's influence extends to contributing In 2023/24, the CTR saw 10 PhD students, 24 MSc
through investigations into clinical utility of methods students, and 11 Honours students graduate
for pulmonary tuberculosis screening as well as from Stellenbosch University within the stipulated
exploring the association between TB drug exposure
and genetic variants, providing novel insights into timeframes, demonstrating their commitment to
Southern African patients' pharmacogenetics and timely academic achievement. The period also
pharmacokinetics. The investigation into the role welcomed 33 postdoctoral, 53 PhD, and 48 MSc
of sex hormones in modulating immune responses students. Efforts to advance gender diversity and
to Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection offers elevate postdoctoral fellows were evident, with
promising insights into population disparities. 67% female representation among postgraduate
students and 30% of the student body consisting
Leveraging cutting-edge technology, the unit has of postdoctoral fellows. Notable academic
advanced the understanding of epidemiological advancements were celebrated, including Prof
links at the human-animal interface (One Health) Andre Loxton's appointment as Chief Specialist
through culture-independent identification of Scientist, Dr Lucinda Baatjies' promotion to Senior
Mycobacteria spp. The unit's comprehensive Scientist, and the appointments of Profs Vuyo
research also encompasses exploring the diagnostic Mavumengwana, Desiree Petersen, and Bienyameen
utility of molecular methods for non-tuberculosis Baker as Associate Professors.

SAMRC ANNUAL REPOR T 2023-24 73