What we do
Genomics
We focus on embedding African genetics into the global drug development pipeline to improve treatment outcomes and reduce adverse drug reactions in African populations. By leveraging stem cells and genome engineering, we develop advanced preclinical tools. Additionally, we explore the microbiome and other omics layers to develop digital precision medicine solutions tailored to African health profiles.
Genomics
We focus on embedding African genetics into the global drug development pipeline to improve treatment outcomes and reduce adverse drug reactions in African populations. By leveraging stem cells and genome engineering, we develop advanced preclinical tools. Additionally, we explore the microbiome and other omics layers to develop digital precision medicine solutions tailored to African health profiles.
Genomics
We focus on embedding African genetics into the global drug development pipeline to improve treatment outcomes and reduce adverse drug reactions in African populations. By leveraging stem cells and genome engineering, we develop advanced preclinical tools. Additionally, we explore the microbiome and other omics layers to develop digital precision medicine solutions tailored to African health profiles.
Genomics
We focus on embedding African genetics into the global drug development pipeline to improve treatment outcomes and reduce adverse drug reactions in African populations. By leveraging stem cells and genome engineering, we develop advanced preclinical tools. Additionally, we explore the microbiome and other omics layers to develop digital precision medicine solutions tailored to African health profiles.
Contact information:
Highlights
The African Clinical Multiome Atlas Platform (Clin-MAP)
Clin-MAP is creating a pan-African integrated clinical multiome (genome, transcriptome, microbiome, and proteome) data repository to democratise African precision medicine efforts, foster sustainable research and development partnerships, and catalyse African health innovation. Read more.
A sliver of brown skin for a world of new medicines
The CSIR has collected skin cells from anonymous African donors to enable global scientists to develop medications better suited for patients of African descent. These skin cells will first be converted into stem cells and then into nearly any cell type required for early testing of therapies targeting various diseases. This initiative aims to create tools that incorporate African genetics, providing evidence-based scientific guidance for drug discovery and development tailored to African populations.
Unlocking the potential of genome engineering in Africa
Genome engineering holds lifesaving promise for Africa. However, most drug trials are still conducted in the Global North, meaning medicines are predominantly optimised for the populations tested – largely caucasians in Europe and North America. This creates a critical gap: limited insight into how these drugs perform in other demographics, especially people of African descent. Watch this video to see how innovative stem cell and genome engineering approaches are used to synthetically create liver-like cells that reflect the unique genetic profiles of Africans, paving the way for more precise and effective treatments.
Capabilities
Our facilities
