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Tag Archives: Genome sequencing

MyAfroDNA > Genome sequencing
15
Sep
Date September 15, 2025
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New Genomic Study Reveals Antimicrobial Resistance Genes in Staphylococcus aureus Across Africa


Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a major threat to global health, and Africa is no exception. As pathogens evolve, our ability to treat common infections is becoming increasingly limited.





A new study published in Scientific Reports provides valuable insight into the genetic basis of AMR in Africa, focusing on Staphylococcus aureus, one of the most widespread and clinically significant bacteria.What the Study FoundResearchers analyzed 95 whole genomes of S. aureus collected from 11 African countries. The majority of these samples were human-derived, taken from blood, pus, urine, and wound sites.





Through bioinformatic analysis, they identified 33 antimicrobial resistance genes.Key findings include:Efflux pump mechanisms were the dominant form of resistance, allowing bacteria to actively expel antibiotics.Other resistance strategies included enzyme-mediated inactivation, target alteration, protection, and replacement.West and East Africa emerged as hotspots for the distribution of resistance genes, signaling the need for stronger surveillance in these regions.





These findings highlight the urgent need to expand genomic surveillance systems across the continent. Despite covering 11 countries, the study was limited by small sample sizes and lack of data from many African nations. This gap emphasizes the importance of building local capacity for sequencing, data analysis, and sample collection.For African health systems, this research serves as a reminder that combating AMR requires both global collaboration and homegrown solutions. Without comprehensive genomic data, it will be difficult to design effective treatment guidelines, track the spread of resistance, or prepare for future outbreaks.





At MyAfroDNA, we believe genomic research should be powered by African data, African expertise, and African innovation. Our mission is to provide high-quality biospecimens and molecular testing services that enable researchers to generate the insights needed to safeguard public health.AMR is a collective challenge, but with better data and stronger collaboration, Africa can take the lead in finding solutions.









Read the full publication here: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-01398-0


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09
Sep
Date September 9, 2025
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New African Genomics Insights on Early Atherosclerosis


A groundbreaking study published in Nature Communications has revealed novel genetic variants associated with carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT), a key marker of early atherosclerosis, among nearly 8,000 adults from sub-Saharan Africa. The research, part of the AWI-Gen project, included participants from Burkina Faso, Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa and marks one of the largest genome-wide association studies (GWAS) on cardiovascular risk in African populations.





Two previously unidentified loci, SIRPA and FBXL17, were found to be significantly associated with cIMT, offering new insight into biological pathways involved in vascular health. Notably, the study also identified sex-specific genetic signals: SNX29 in men, and LARP6 and PROK1 in women, the latter two being enriched for estrogen response genes. These findings suggest different genetic mechanisms for cardiovascular risk between men and women.





Many of the variants identified in this African cohort are either rare or absent in European populations, emphasizing the critical need for diversity in genomic research. This study not only deepens our understanding of cardiovascular disease in African communities but also underscores the importance of building inclusive datasets to drive precision medicine. At MyAfroDNA, we champion this kind of Africa-led genomic science.





Read more on this research here: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-022-28276-x


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06
Aug
Date August 6, 2025
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Genomic Diversity in Neonatal E. coli in Malawi Raises Vaccine Design Concerns


A comprehensive genomic study of 208 neonatal Escherichia coli isolates collected from 2012 to 2021 at a major hospital in Blantyre, Malawi found extensive diversity in sequence types (STs), O‑antigens, and H‑antigens among strains causing invasive disease  . Genomes from 169 isolates passed quality control and revealed 71 distinct STs, including 11 previously unreported types; over half of STs were observed only once  . Among common lineages, ST69, ST131, ST10, and ST410 were most frequent, with ST410 highly enriched in cerebrospinal fluid samples suggesting invasive potential  .





Researchers also catalogued 63 O‑antigen types—none exceeding 10% prevalence—and 34 H‑types, with only a handful appearing in more than one year. Notably, serotypes O15, O25B, and O8 appeared most often but no type dominated across years  .





Using theoretical vaccine coverage models, the study shows that existing vaccine candidates like EXPEC4V or EXPEC9V would leave a large proportion of isolates unprotected. Crucially, the removal of O8 from some vaccine formulations could significantly reduce coverage in this setting  .





Additionally, high resistance rates were observed: over 90% of strains demonstrated resistance to co‑trimoxazole, and many were multidrug resistant; yet meropenem resistance remained rare. Only amikacin and carbapenems remained reliable options in severe cases  .





Implications for vaccine design in sub‑Saharan Africa: The extraordinary antigenic diversity among neonatal E. coli in Malawi presents a significant obstacle to one‑size‑fits‑all O‑antigen vaccines. The authors recommend vaccine strategies tailored to local serotype ecology and genetic surveillance integrated into design efforts.





Read more here.






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04
Aug
Date August 4, 2025
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Unlocking Africa’s Bioeconomy Through Genomics & Bioinformatics


A new study published by our partners, the AfricaBP Open Institute, showcases transformative efforts to harness biodiversity genomics and bioinformatics to drive a sustainable African bioeconomy.





The Africa BioGenome Project (AfricaBP) aims to sequence 105,000 non‑human genomes across Africa, spanning plants, animals, fungi, and protozoa, to support food security, conservation, and biotech innovation. To bridge capacity gaps, the AfricaBP Open Institute organized 31 hands‑on regional workshops in 2024 across five geographic regions, engaging participants from over 50 African countries. These sessions trained 401 African researchers in genome sequencing, gene editing, bioinformatics, molecular biology, ethics, and biobanking, strengthening local research infrastructure and skills.





A highlight case study: the proposed “1000 Moroccan Genome Project,” which illustrates economic returns from local genome sequencing. Analysis shows that a US$20 million investment over 10 years could yield US$40 million in discounted benefits and deliver a benefit–cost ratio (BCR) of 3.29—meaning every dollar invested returns more than three dollars in value—particularly across agriculture, R&D, education, and downstream sectors.





Key recommendations emerge: integrate biodiversity genomics and bioinformatics into national bioeconomy strategies, expand capacity‑building initiatives, build regional sequencing hubs, and foster ethical, inclusive data-sharing policies. Strategic investment in these domains positions African nations to capitalize on their unique biodiversity and reclaim ownership of genomic science—a powerful lever toward sustainable development and regional innovation rooted in African knowledge and priorities  .





In short, AfricaBP’s model provides a scalable path for leveraging genomic science to fuel a resilient, inclusive African bioeconomy driven by regional talent and locally generated data. Read more here.






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25
May
Date May 25, 2025
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Revealing Morocco’s Genetic Diversity for Better Healthcare


The Moroccan Genome Project (MGP) sequenced 109 Moroccan genomes, uncovering over 27 million genetic variants, including 1.4 million new ones. This research introduces the Moroccan Major Allele Reference Genome (MMARG), providing a more accurate representation of Moroccan genetic diversity compared to global references.





By identifying unique genetic variants, MGP aims to improve precision medicine, addressing healthcare disparities for Moroccans and North Africans, especially in diseases like kidney disease, heart conditions, and diabetes.





This initiative builds on Morocco's rich genetic history and aims to create a more comprehensive genomic reference for North Africa, paving the way for better healthcare and research in the region.





Learn more here






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10
Feb
Date February 10, 2025
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DNA Damage,Mutation and Cancer


DNA Damages Found to Last Unrepaired for Years, Leading to Mutations that Cause Cancer





This research brings our minds back to the fact that cells in our body can develop somatic mutations as a result of accumulated genetic errors in the genome. This is mostly caused by environmental exposures and other chemical reactions that occur in our cells.





This reveals that wrong copies of a genetic sequence can occur because of DNA Damage. However, there are repair mechanisms within our cells that usually recognize and mend the DNA damage quickly. by repair mechanisms in our cells. The sad part is that these DNA Damages can last unrepaired for years which brings about permanent mutations that lead to the development of various kinds of cancers.





This research reveals a better way science can think about mutations, and understand the development of various cancers. With a proper understanding of mutations leading to cancer, researchers can invent better strategies to slow or completely eradicate them.









Read the full research here.






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13
Jan
Date January 13, 2025
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Newborn Genome Screening: A Transformative Healthcare Intervention Strategy


Over the years, genome sequencing has improved healthcare in no small way. In recent times, researchers have found possible ways to identify potential genetic risks for thousands of diseases by simply analyzing a baby's DNA at birth.





Here are some benefits of newborn genome screening:






  • Early Disease Detection: Genome sequencing can detect genetic disorders before the symptoms appear, preventing serious health complications.




  • Personalized Care: This technology can help streamline medical care to each child's unique genetic makeup.





However, there are some important ethical considerations to be made such as privacy, consent, and the potential for unintended consequences.





As research progresses, genome sequencing holds the potential to revolutionize newborn care and improve the health and well-being of future generations.





Read more about newborn genome screening here.


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