“Molecular characterization and genetic diversity of isoniazid-resistant strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis clinical isolates in Cameroon”
Country of Study
Cameroon
Institution
University of Bamenda
Expected Year of Completion
2024
Thematic Area
Life and Health Sciences
Education
Nono is pursuing her PhD in Biochemistry at the University of Bamenda in Cameroon, and works as an intern at the Centre Pasteur of Cameroon. She has an MSc in Biochemistry from the University of Bamenda and completes her studies in 2024.
Research Summary
The research sets out to better understand the mechanisms underlying INH resistance, and to investigate the genetic diversity and transmission dynamics of INH-R TB isolates in Cameroon. Tuberculosis (TB) has persisted as a human challenge, with Cameroon reporting 22,540 cases and 7,403 deaths in 2020 . Isoniazid is one of the most powerful anti-tuberculosis drugs used in TB prevention and treatment. Globally, the combined prevalence of resistance to isoniazid exceeds 13%, and hampers treatment. DR-TB occurs primarily via chromosomal mutations in drug targets and activating genes. However, these mutations are not present in all strains, implying that alternative mechanisms exist. Current evidence suggests that reduced expression of catalase-peroxidase and over-expression of efflux pumps are other INH resistance-conferring mechanisms. Additionally, the majority of DR-TB cases result from transmission rather than de-novo bacterial evolution during treatment. Previous epidemiological studies in Cameroon assessed the genetic diversity and transmission pattern of multidrug-/rifampicin-resistant TB strains but the epidemiological data on INH-R strains is non-existent. The study will help to improve the management of INH-R tuberculosis patients by increasing our understanding of resistance mechanisms, developing tuberculosis diagnostics, and identifying therapeutic targets. This would reduce its spread to the community and facilitate the realisation of the WHO END TB strategy.
Publications:
1. Ganoderma boninense (Ganodermataceae) Aqueous Extract Protects Against Liver and Reproductive Alterations in Parastar-Exposed Male Wistar Rats
