Africa is home to the greatest human genetic diversity on Earth, yet African populations remain significantly underrepresented in global genomic research.
A groundbreaking study led by researchers across nine African countries is helping to change that narrative. The project has successfully added more than 1,000 newly sequenced African genomes to global scientific databases, creating one of the most significant expansions of African genomic data in recent years.
The initiative is expected to reveal millions of previously undocumented genetic variants, offering new insights into disease susceptibility, treatment response, and population health. These discoveries could play a critical role in advancing precision medicine, ensuring that healthcare solutions are better tailored to people of African ancestry.
Why does this matter?
Most genomic studies have historically focused on populations of European descent. As a result, diagnostic tools, risk prediction models, and treatment strategies may not fully reflect the genetic realities of African populations.
By increasing African representation in genomic databases, researchers can improve our understanding of conditions such as cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and rare genetic disorders. This knowledge has the potential to transform healthcare outcomes not only for Africans but for people around the world.
At MyAfroDNA, we believe that African genomes hold the key to unlocking more inclusive and effective healthcare solutions. Studies like this reinforce the importance of investing in African-led genomics research and building datasets that truly reflect the diversity of our continent.
Read the full study coverage through the link below and discover how African genomics is shaping the future of global health.
Read more here
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), the highest level of global health alert under international health regulations. The declaration follows the rapid spread of Ebola disease caused by the Bundibugyo virus, a rare strain for which there is currently no approved vaccine or specific treatment.According to WHO, the outbreak was officially declared in the DRC on 15 May 2026. By 16 May, health authorities had reported hundreds of suspected cases and dozens of deaths across several health zones in Ituri Province. Uganda also confirmed imported cases linked to travel from the DRC, raising concerns about cross-border transmission.
What makes this outbreak particularly concerning is the virus strain involved. While previous Ebola outbreaks have benefited from licensed vaccines and targeted therapies, the Bundibugyo strain currently lacks approved medical countermeasures. Scientists and global health organizations are now accelerating clinical trials for experimental vaccines and treatments in an effort to contain the outbreak.The WHO's emergency declaration is intended to mobilize international resources, strengthen surveillance, improve laboratory testing, and support affected countries in controlling the spread of the disease.
The outbreak is occurring in a challenging environment marked by insecurity, population movement, and limited healthcare access, factors that complicate contact tracing and response efforts.Despite the seriousness of the situation, WHO currently assesses the global risk as low, while rating the national risk in the DRC as very high and the regional risk as high. The organization has advised against travel and trade restrictions, emphasizing that evidence-based public health measures remain the most effective response.The outbreak highlights the ongoing need for investment in infectious disease surveillance, genomic monitoring, vaccine research, and global health preparedness. As researchers work to develop effective interventions against the Bundibugyo virus, the situation serves as a reminder that emerging infectious diseases remain a significant challenge for global public health.
Read more about the Ebola outbreak here: https://www.who.int/news/item/17-05-2026-epidemic-of-ebola-disease-in-the-democratic-republic-of-the-congo-and-uganda-determined-a-public-health-emergency-of-international-concern
A new frontier in cancer treatment may be emerging—not through injections or surgery, but through something as simple as breathing. Recent developments highlighted by New Scientist report that the first-ever inhalable gene therapy for cancer has been fast-tracked by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), marking a significant shift in how gene therapies can be delivered and applied.
The therapy, currently under investigation for lung cancer, works by delivering immune-boosting genes directly into lung cells via inhalation. Instead of circulating through the bloodstream like conventional treatments, the therapy is administered as a fine mist using a nebulizer. This allows it to act locally within the lungs—targeting tumours more directly and potentially reducing systemic side effects.
At the core of this innovation is a modified viral vector, engineered to safely transport genetic material into cells. Once inside, these genes instruct the cells to produce proteins—specifically immune signaling molecules—that help the body recognize and attack cancer. Early findings suggest that this approach can shrink tumours or stop their growth in some patients, particularly those who have exhausted other treatment options.
This therapy has received what is known as a Regenerative Medicine Advanced Therapy (RMAT) designation from the FDA. This designation is reserved for treatments that show early promise in addressing serious or life-threatening conditions and allows for an accelerated development and review process.
One of the most compelling aspects of inhalable gene therapy is its precision. Traditional cancer treatments often struggle to reach sufficient concentrations in the lungs without affecting other parts of the body. By delivering therapy directly to the site of disease, this approach may enhance effectiveness while minimizing harm.
However, the science is still in its early stages. Initial trials have involved small patient groups, and while results are promising, larger clinical studies are needed to confirm safety, effectiveness, and long-term outcomes. Current research is also exploring how this therapy might work in combination with existing treatments such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy.
Beyond the immediate implications for lung cancer, this development signals a broader shift in biotechnology: moving from generalized treatment approaches to highly targeted, localized, and genetically informed interventions.
For regions like Africa, where access to advanced therapies remains uneven—this raises important questions about inclusion, infrastructure, and representation in genomic research. As gene-based therapies evolve, ensuring that diverse populations are included in research and data collection will be critical to making these innovations truly global.
At MyAfroDNA, this moment reinforces a core truth: the future of medicine is being written in our DNA. And who is represented in that data will determine who benefits from the breakthroughs ahead.
A new study from the University of Lausanne by is shedding light on how cancer cells adapt and survive, even under treatment pressure. The research uncovers a surprising role for vitamin B7 (biotin) in enabling cancer cells to switch metabolic pathways, a flexibility that may contribute to treatment resistance.
Cancer cells are known for their rapid growth, and to sustain this, many rely heavily on a nutrient called glutamine. This phenomenon, often described as “glutamine addiction” has made glutamine metabolism a key target in cancer therapy. However, treatments that block glutamine pathways don’t always work as expected. Tumors often find alternative ways to survive.
Researchers discovered that vitamin B7 acts as a critical cofactor for an enzyme called pyruvate carboxylase, which allows cancer cells to switch from glutamine dependency to another metabolic route. In simple terms, biotin enables cancer cells to “change fuel sources” when their primary supply is cut off.
When vitamin B7 was limited in controlled experimental conditions, this metabolic flexibility was disrupted. As a result, cancer cells were less able to adapt, and their growth was significantly reduced.
This finding points to a potential strategy in cancer treatment: instead of targeting a single metabolic pathway, therapies could be designed to block multiple survival routes simultaneously. By combining glutamine inhibition with disruption of biotin-dependent processes, researchers may be able to expose a key vulnerability in tumor cells.
The study also highlights the role of the FBXW7 gene, a known tumor suppressor. Mutations in this gene commonly observed in several cancer types appear to make cancer cells even more reliant on glutamine metabolism. This suggests that patients with such mutations could respond differently to therapies targeting metabolic pathways, reinforcing the importance of personalized medicine.
For African genomics and health research, these findings are particularly relevant. Understanding how genetic variations influence cancer metabolism is essential for developing treatments that are effective across diverse populations. It also underscores the need for more inclusive datasets in biomedical research.
While the study focuses on vitamin B7, it does not suggest that people should reduce their intake of biotin. This vitamin is essential for normal bodily functions, including energy metabolism and skin health. The findings are specific to controlled laboratory settings and targeted therapeutic strategies, not dietary recommendations.
Cancer’s strength lies in its ability to adapt. This research shows that vitamin-dependent metabolic pathways may be one of the mechanisms behind that adaptability, and a promising target for future treatments.
🔗 Read the full article:
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260420014744.htm
Source: ScienceDaily (University of Lausanne)
Lassa fever is a viral haemorrhagic disease endemic to West Africa, caused by the Lassa virus and primarily transmitted through exposure to food or surfaces contaminated by infected rodents. Human-to-human transmission can also occur, particularly in healthcare settings without adequate infection control. Symptoms range from mild fever and weakness to severe complications such as bleeding, organ failure, and, in some cases, death.
Nigeria continues to experience seasonal outbreaks, and recent data from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention shows that 2026 is following a concerning trajectory.
As of Epidemiological Week 8 (February 2026):
- 404 confirmed cases have been recorded
- 99 deaths, with a case fatality rate (CFR) of 24.5%
- Cases have spread across 18 states and 67 Local Government Areas
While weekly confirmed cases have slightly declined (77 new cases in Week 8 compared to 82 in Week 7), the rising fatality rate higher than 18.8% in 2025 signals ongoing gaps in early detection and treatment access.
More recent updates suggest the trend persists. By March 2026, Nigeria had recorded over 580 confirmed cases and more than 140 deaths, maintaining a high fatality rate above 24%.
Geographic and Demographic Trends
The outbreak remains highly concentrated:
- Bauchi (30%), Ondo (21%), and Taraba (19%) account for the majority of cases
- Together with Edo and Benue, these states contribute 84% of all confirmed infections
The most affected group is young adults aged 21–30, although cases span from infants to older adults. Men are slightly more affected than women (ratio 1:0.8).
Healthcare workers also remain at risk, with new infections recorded among frontline responders highlighting persistent vulnerabilities in infection prevention systems.
Treatment Gaps and a New Breakthrough
Currently, treatment options for Lassa fever are limited. The antiviral drug ribavirin is widely used but is most effective only when administered early, which is often not the case due to delayed diagnosis.
However, new research published in Nature introduces a promising development. Scientists have identified an oral antiviral drug, 4′-fluorouridine (4′-FIU), that demonstrated strong efficacy in treating Lassa fever in nonhuman primates.
Key findings from the study include:
- Effectiveness even when treatment begins several days after infection
- Significant reduction in viral load
- Improved survival outcomes
This is particularly important because Lassa fever is often diagnosed late, when existing treatments are less effective. An oral drug also offers practical advantages for deployment in rural and resource-limited settings.
What This Means for Public Health in Africa
The combination of rising fatality rates and continued geographic spread underscores the urgency of improving surveillance, diagnostics, and treatment access.
At the same time, advances like 4′-FIU highlight the role of genomics, antiviral research, and global collaboration in addressing endemic diseases.
While the drug is still in the experimental stage and requires human clinical trials, it represents a potential shift in how Lassa fever is treated especially in regions where early intervention is difficult.
Lassa fever remains a persistent and evolving public health challenge in Nigeria. But with improved data tracking and emerging therapeutic innovations, there is a clear pathway toward better outcomes and reduced mortality if investments in research, healthcare systems, and community awareness continue.
Read more on the Lassa fever trend in Nigeria .
A recent study in Nature Scientific Reports provides new insights into the genetic diversity of African populations and its implications for disease research and precision medicine. The research highlights how African genomes carry unique and medically relevant genetic variants, many of which are still underrepresented in global datasets.
One of the most important findings is the high variability of disease-associated genetic markers across African populations. For example, variants linked to protection against severe malaria, such as those in the G6PD gene, show significantly different frequencies across regions. Similarly, the well-known sickle cell mutation (HbS) appears at high frequencies in malaria-endemic regions of West and East Africa but is far less common in Southern Africa.
This variation is not random, it reflects centuries of evolutionary adaptation to environmental pressures such as infectious diseases. Another key example is the APOL1 gene variants, which are associated with increased risk of kidney disease. These variants are more common in parts of West Africa, illustrating how genetic adaptations that once provided survival advantages can also influence modern disease risk.
Why This Matters for Research and Medicine
These findings reinforce a critical gap in global health research: African populations remain underrepresented in genomic studies, despite having the highest genetic diversity worldwide. This lack of representation limits the ability to:
- Accurately identify disease risk factors
- Develop effective diagnostics
- Design targeted therapies
- Advance precision medicine
Without diverse biospecimens and genomic data, researchers risk building solutions that do not fully apply to African populations.
The Role of Biobanking and African-Led Research
To bridge this gap, the study underscores the importance of:
- Expanding genomic databases with African representation
- Strengthening biobanking systems for diverse biospecimens
- Supporting collaborative, African-led research initiatives
Biobanks play a central role by enabling the ethical collection, storage, and sharing of biological samples that reflect real population diversity.
At MyAfroDNA, we are committed to advancing inclusive genomic research by providing:
- Access to diverse African biospecimens
- Ethical biobanking and sample management
- Partnerships with researchers, institutions, and healthcare organizations
We invite researchers, universities, and public health institutions to collaborate with us in building datasets and research that truly reflect African populations.
Inclusive genomics is essential for equitable healthcare. Africa must be represented not approximated in global science.
Read more on this research at nature scientific.
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Recently, MyAfroDNA announced the acquisition of the CycloneSEQ sequencer nanopore genome sequencing platform, becoming the first facility in West Africa to deploy this advanced technology. This milestone represents a significant advancement for genome sequencing in Nigeria, biotechnology in West Africa, and African-led genomics research.
But what exactly is the CycloneSEQ platform? How does nanopore sequencing work? And why does this matter for researchers, institutions, and biotech organizations across Africa and globally?
In this article, we explain:
- What the CycloneSEQ platform does
- The science behind its enhanced protein engineering and flow cell design
- Its advantages over traditional sequencing systems
- Why long-read sequencing is critical for modern genomics
- How institutions can collaborate with MyAfroDNA
What Is the CycloneSEQ Nanopore Sequencing Platform?
The CycloneSEQ platform, including the CycloneSEQ-WT02 and CycloneSEQ-WY01 models, is an advanced nanopore-based genome sequencing system developed by MGI Tech Co., Ltd. Unlike conventional short-read sequencing platforms that fragment DNA into small pieces for computational assembly, nanopore sequencing reads long DNA molecules directly as they pass through nanoscale protein pores.
As DNA passes through each nanopore, changes in electrical current are detected at picoampere resolution. These signals are then decoded in real time using advanced basecalling algorithms.
This enables:
- Long-read genome sequencing
- Real-time data generation
- Structural variant detection
- Whole genome assembly
- Metagenomics and pathogen surveillance
- Agricultural and biodiversity genomics
For biotechnology in Nigeria and West Africa, this introduces a new level of sequencing capability previously unavailable locally.
Advanced Technology Behind CycloneSEQ
The CycloneSEQ platform integrates several major innovations that elevate its performance in genomic applications.
Enhanced Protein Engineering
CycloneSEQ utilizes:
- A high thermal stability motor protein
- A structurally rigid nanopore protein
This refined structure improves:
- DNA unwinding efficiency
- Nucleic acid capture
- Reduced sequencing noise
- Signal stability
These enhancements increase threading precision as DNA passes through the pore, significantly improving sequencing reliability.
High-Density Flow Cell Architecture
Each flow cell supports up to 4,096 nanopore protein sensors arranged in a high-density array.
The integration of:
- BioMEMS microfluidic control systems
- ASIC-based electronic signal processing
Allows ultra-sensitive detection of current changes at picoampere levels.
This enables:
- Stable, ultra-long sequencing runs
- High-throughput genomic analysis
- Multi-flow cell scalability
- Continuous real-time sequencing
Optimized Basecalling Algorithm (97% Accuracy)
CycloneSEQ employs a proprietary basecalling algorithm trained using large-scale distributed computing.
With reported accuracy rates of approximately 97%, the system delivers:
- Real-time DNA sequence decoding
- Reliable variant detection
- Reduced computational post-processing
- Improved structural variant resolution
This level of optimization is critical for clinical research, agricultural genomics, and biodiversity projects.
Innovative Nanopore Local Chemistry
A novel sequencing chemistry modulates magnesium ion electrophoretic migration to regulate motor protein activity.
This chemistry improves:
- DNA translocation control
- Sequencing efficiency
- Signal clarity
- Run stability
Together, these innovations position CycloneSEQ as a highly competitive long-read sequencing platform.
CycloneSEQ vs Traditional Sequencing Platforms
Understanding the distinction between long-read nanopore sequencing and traditional short-read systems is essential.
1. Read Length
Traditional platforms generate short DNA fragments requiring computational reassembly.
CycloneSEQ reads long continuous DNA strands, enabling more accurate genome assembly.
2. Structural Variant Detection
Short-read sequencing may struggle with:
- Large insertions
- Repeat expansions
- Complex rearrangements
Long-read sequencing excels in resolving these genomic features.
3. Infrastructure and Accessibility
Traditional systems often require:
- Large-scale laboratory infrastructure
- High capital investment
- Significant operational overhead
CycloneSEQ offers greater flexibility and accessibility for emerging genomics laboratories.
4. Turnaround Time
Outsourcing sequencing abroad can delay research timelines.
With local genome sequencing now available in Nigeria at MyAfroDNA, turnaround time is significantly reduced.
5. Data Sovereignty
Local sequencing strengthens data ownership and supports African-led genomics research initiatives.
Why This Matters for Biotechnology in Nigeria and Africa
Africa contains the highest human genetic diversity globally, yet remains underrepresented in genomic databases.
The deployment of West Africa’s first CycloneSEQ nanopore sequencer strengthens:
- Precision medicine research
- Agricultural biotechnology
- Crop genome assembly
- Pathogen genomics
- Biodiversity and conservation research
- Academic and institutional genomics programs
By expanding DNA sequencing services in Nigeria, MyAfroDNA contributes to positioning Africa as an active contributor, not just a participant, in global genomics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is nanopore sequencing?
Nanopore sequencing reads DNA directly as it passes through a protein pore, detecting electrical current changes to determine sequence information.
Is CycloneSEQ suitable for whole-genome sequencing?
Yes. It supports long-read whole-genome assembly and structural variant analysis.
Who can partner with MyAfroDNA?
Universities, biotech startups, hospitals, agricultural institutes, NGOs, pharmaceutical researchers, and international collaborators.
Is this technology only for human genomics?
No. It supports plant, microbial, animal, environmental, and metagenomic sequencing applications.
How can organizations access this service?
Institutions can contact MyAfroDNA to discuss project scope, sample type, volume requirements, and turnaround expectations.
Partner with MyAfroDNA
Partner with West Africa’s first nanopore sequencing facility.
MyAfroDNA now offers advanced genome sequencing services in Nigeria, serving researchers and institutions across West Africa, Africa, and globally.
If your organization requires:
- Long-read genome sequencing
- Structural variant analysis
- Agricultural genomics
- Pathogen surveillance
- Biodiversity sequencing
- Precision medicine research support
Our team is ready to collaborate.
Contact MyAfroDNA today to discuss your sequencing project and explore how CycloneSEQ technology can support your research objectives.
Cancer research is entering a transformative era. Precision oncology, the approach of tailoring cancer treatments based on a patient’s unique genetic profile, is already revolutionizing care in many parts of the world. However, recent evidence underscores a critical gap: precision oncology in Africa cannot succeed without African‑centric genomic data, infrastructure, and research partnerships. (Nature Africa, 2026)
Many of the genomic datasets driving current precision oncology tools are largely derived from populations outside Africa. While these datasets have enabled breakthroughs in diagnostics, therapy selection, and prognostic assessments, they do not capture the full spectrum of genetic diversity found in African populations. This matters because cancer development, mutation patterns, and drug responses are influenced by ancestry-specific genomic variations. Without representative African data, treatments risk being less effective or missing critical mutation patterns prevalent in African patients.
Why African Genomes Are Essential for Precision Oncology
The Nature Africa feature emphasizes that African populations possess high genetic diversity, one of the richest in the world. This diversity affects not only susceptibility to certain cancer types but also the effectiveness of targeted therapies. For example, mutations in genes such as TP53, BRCA1/2, or EGFR may appear with different frequencies or impact drug responses differently in African patients compared to non-African populations. Precision oncology that ignores this variation risks exacerbating health disparities, rather than reducing them.
The Role of Biobanking and Genomic Research
To build effective precision oncology for Africa, robust biobanks and genomic infrastructure are vital. Biobanks store ethically collected biological samples — including blood, tissue, saliva, and DNA — under controlled conditions for research. They allow researchers to:
- Identify population-specific genetic variants
- Map tumor evolution in African patients
- Develop diagnostic assays tailored to local mutation patterns
- Support clinical trials that reflect real-world African populations
Ethical stewardship and consent are central to biobanking. Samples must be traceable, stored securely, and used transparently for approved research. African biobanks like MyAfroDNA aim to provide this foundation while supporting collaborations with hospitals, universities, and research institutions.
Investing in African Genomic Capacity
Precision oncology requires more than samples; it needs trained personnel, advanced sequencing technologies, molecular tumor boards, and data analysis capacity. African researchers and clinicians must be empowered to interpret genomic information in context, linking mutations to effective therapies. Collaborative networks allow the sharing of resources, expertise, and knowledge to accelerate the translation of genomic insights into patient care.
Partner With MyAfroDNA for Precision Oncology for Africans by Africans
At MyAfroDNA, we are committed to advancing African-centric precision oncology through:
- Ethical biospecimen collection and storage
- Access to diverse African genomic samples for research
- Partnerships with researchers, hospitals, and institutions
- Training programs in genomic analysis and precision medicine
We invite researchers, universities, hospitals, and pharmaceutical companies to collaborate with us. By working together, we can ensure that precision oncology in Africa is informed by representative genomic data, supports tailored therapies, and contributes to equitable healthcare outcomes.
African genomic research is not just a scientific opportunity; it is a responsibility. Every sample, study, and collaboration strengthens the foundation for cancer care that is designed by Africans, for Africans.
Partner with MyAfroDNA today to advance precision oncology and genomic research in Africa.
Source: Nature Africa — Precision oncology specifically for Africa (nature.com)