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  • November 26, 2024
  • prizes
  • By ibhilab

IMPM secures a 2024 Schistosomiasis Research Grant from Merck Group

This funding will strengthen the fight against schistosomiasis, a parasitic disease affecting millions of people in Africa, by developing an innovative data science platform to better understand and combat this condition.

An Ambitious Project to Transform Schistosomiasis Research

The project, titled “Building Bioinformatics, Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning and Advanced Biostatistics Capacity for Cost-Effective Translation of Novel Control Tools Against Schistosomiasis”, aims to make IMPM a regional center of excellence for schistosomiasis research, utilizing advanced bioinformatics and artificial intelligence tools.

Specifically, it will develop a translational data science platform dedicated to schistosomiasis at IMPM, consistent with the national policy of import substitution, to train future researchers and leaders in biomedical science and data science locally. Additionally, scientists will be trained in complex data analysis, with a particular focus on the ethical, legal, and social issues related to the use of multi-omics technologies. The project will also work to establish IMPM as a regional hub for translational schistosomiasis research in Africa, with direct impacts on the continent’s public health.

International Collaborations for Global Impact

This project is led by a team of experts from IMPM, including Dr. Nono Komguep Justin (Molecular Biology Laboratory / IBHI Unit, CRSPP), Dr. Tchokouaha Yamthe Lauve Rachel (Pharmacology Lab, CRPMT), and Mr. Kamguia Leonel (IBHI Unit and EDR-Gabon). It also benefits from strategic partnerships with prestigious institutions such as Ersilia (Dr Miquel Duran-Frigola & Dr Gemma Turon, Spain), l’University of Northumbria (Prof Emile Chimusa, United Kingdom/ DRC), and CERAD (M. Irenee Domkam, Cameroon/Haiti), thereby strengthening the project’s collaborative and international approach.

A Step Forward in the Fight Against Schistosomiasis

Schistosomiasis remains one of the most devastating tropical diseases, affecting millions of people in Africa. By winning this Merck grant, IMPM positions itself as a key player in developing sustainable and innovative solutions for the control and treatment of this disease.

This success highlights IMPM’s and its partners’ commitment to improving public health in Africa by using the latest scientific and technological advances to combat neglected diseases.

By Yves Martial TIENTCHEU