Chibuzo Nwokafor, a first-class Microbiology graduate, graduated with distinction in MSc Biotechnology from the University of the West of Scotland, United Kingdom. He is currently a researcher in Microbiology Department at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, United States. In this interview by Kingsley Alumona, he speaks about his work in antimicrobial therapy and resistance, among other issues.
How were you able to secure foreign postgraduate education after earning your bachelor’s degree in Microbiology in Nigeria, considering the high level of achievement required for such programmes?
Securing opportunities for foreign postgraduate education was a result of a combination of strong academic performance, extensive research experience, and practical training. Graduating as the top student in my department with a first-class degree and being in the top 1 per cent of my class, provided a solid academic foundation.
My hands-on experience at the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC), where I gained practical skills in microbiology research and molecular biology techniques, further strengthened my profile. Conducting independent research projects, such as ethanol production from rice husks and studying the probiotic potential of lactic acid bacteria, coupled with presenting my findings at national symposia, highlighted my research capabilities.
This strong academic and research background, combined with my dedication to microbial manipulation for drug production, helped me stand out in international scholarship and admission applications for postgraduate studies abroad.
So far, how would you describe your journey and experience in microbial and antimicrobial resistance research?
My journey in microbial and antimicrobial resistance research has been both challenging and rewarding. It has involved continuous learning and problem-solving, providing me with daily insights into microbial pathogenesis and its impact on human health.
Conducting first-hand research in this field, especially in leading-edge research facilities, has deepened my understanding of antimicrobial resistance and its complexities. This experience has been invaluable, shaping my approach to addressing these significant global health issues.
Your focus research areas are plant extract and antimicrobial therapy. Why did you decide to major in these areas?
My decision to focus on plant extracts and antimicrobial therapy was influenced by personal experiences and the pressing global health challenge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). During my undergraduate studies, I researched the antimicrobial properties of plant extracts and was intrigued by the potent activity of readily available plants. Witnessing the impact of AMR in Nigeria, with significant mortality rates, motivated me to explore accessible and effective solutions.
I believe that plant-based extracts offer a promising avenue for developing new antimicrobial therapies that are both effective and affordable, particularly in resource-constrained settings. My goal is to harness nature’s power to contribute to the fight against AMR and improve health outcomes in my community and beyond.
Some of your scholarly published papers are on antimicrobial activities. How effective are these plant extracts compared to conventional drugs in the treatment of infectious diseases?
Plant extracts show considerable promise in antimicrobial research, though their effectiveness compared to conventional drugs varies. These natural compounds often have multiple mechanisms of action due to their complex composition, allowing them to target a broad range of pathogens. However, their potency can be lower than conventional antibiotics, sometimes requiring higher doses for comparable effects.
For instance, extracts from Neem and Moringa demonstrate significant antimicrobial activity, but their effectiveness can fluctuate based on the plant species, extract preparation, and targeted pathogen. The diverse nature of plant extracts might help slow the development of resistance and, when combined with conventional antibiotics, could enhance overall treatment efficacy.
Some of your works deal with the application of moringa and ginger extracts in the treatment of bacteria and pathogenic organisms. From the findings of these works, how potent are these two plant extracts in fighting microorganisms?
Moringa and ginger extracts have demonstrated promising antimicrobial properties. Moringa, rich in bioactive compounds, effectively inhibits both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.
Ginger, with its active compounds gingerol and shogaol, exhibits broad-spectrum activity against bacteria such as Salmonella, Staphylococcus, and E. coli. While their potency is generally lower than standard antibiotics, these extracts offer valuable potential as complementary treatments, reducing antibiotic resistance and offering fewer side effects.
Combining these extracts with antibiotics may enhance their effectiveness, making them a valuable addition to infection management.
What can you tell us about the use of plant-based extracts in the treatment of cancer?
Plant-based extracts hold significant promise in cancer research due to their potential to inhibit cancer cell growth, induce cell death, and interfere with tumour progression. Bioactive compounds like flavonoids and polyphenols found in these extracts have demonstrated anticancer properties.
For example, Taxol from the Pacific yew tree and Vincristine and Vinblastine from the Madagascar periwinkle are used in chemotherapy. Plant extracts also offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, crucial for cancer prevention. Compounds such as curcumin, resveratrol, and EGCG can disrupt cancer cell signalling pathways, inhibiting metastasis and angiogenesis. Often, these compounds work synergistically with conventional treatments, potentially reducing side effects and improving outcomes.
Some healthcare professionals express scepticism or caution regarding the use of herbal remedies in treating diseases. As a researcher specialising in plant-based antimicrobials, what guidance would you offer to patients who are considering or currently using herbal medicines for treatment?
As a researcher specialising in plant-based antimicrobials, I acknowledge both the potential benefits and the concerns surrounding herbal remedies. I advise patients to maintain open communication with their healthcare providers about any herbal treatments they are using or considering. This transparency allows for the identification of potential interactions and ensures comprehensive care. Patients should also rely on scientific evidence when choosing herbal remedies, prioritising products supported by clinical trials and peer-reviewed research.
Additionally, selecting reputable sources for herbal products and adhering to recommended dosages are essential for safety and efficacy. While herbal remedies can be valuable, they should complement, not replace, conventional treatments. Patients should always consult healthcare professionals before starting new therapies.
What is antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and, when and how does the condition set in in patients using antimicrobial medications?
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when microorganisms evolve to resist the effects of medications that once effectively killed or inhibited them. This resistance can develop due to factors such as suboptimal doses of antimicrobials, incomplete treatment regimens, overuse, or misuse of antibiotics. AMR can also arise from the use of antimicrobials in agriculture or inadequate infection control in healthcare settings. As a result, infections become more challenging to treat, leading to prolonged illness and increased mortality. Addressing AMR requires careful management and prevention strategies to maintain the effectiveness of antimicrobial treatments.
In the event antimicrobial resistance sets in in a patient, how could it be reversed, controlled, or managed?
Managing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) involves several strategies, though reversing it entirely is complex. If AMR is suspected, healthcare providers may switch to more potent, last-resort antibiotics, guided by susceptibility testing. Using multiple antibiotics simultaneously can help overcome resistance by targeting the pathogen from different angles. Adhering to strict infection control measures, such as isolating patients and enhancing hygiene practices, is crucial to preventing the spread of resistant strains.
Reducing unnecessary antibiotic use is key to slowing AMR development, and healthcare providers should prescribe antibiotics judiciously. Supporting the development of new antimicrobial agents, vaccines, and alternative treatments, such as bacteriophages, is essential in combating resistant pathogens.
Monkeypox (Mpox) virus is spreading across some African countries and may have reached Nigeria. What advice do you have for the Nigerian government on how to effectively manage this infectious disease?
To manage the potential spread of Monkeypox effectively, the Nigerian government should enhance disease surveillance and contact tracing. Public education campaigns are essential to inform the public about Mpox transmission, symptoms, and preventive measures. While there is no specific treatment for Mpox, supportive care can alleviate symptoms. The government should consider targeted vaccination strategies for high-risk groups, including healthcare workers and close contacts of confirmed cases.
Investing in research to better understand Mpox epidemiology, transmission, and treatment options in Nigeria is crucial. Supporting the development and availability of effective vaccines and therapeutics will also be important in controlling the disease.
When you are not engaged in research, how do you relax and unwind? Additionally, what aspects of social life in your field or professional community do you find engage in?
Outside of my research, I find relaxation and fulfillment in giving back to the community through volunteering, mentoring students, and participating in public health initiatives. These activities help me stay connected with people and contribute meaningfully to society, while also providing a balance to my professional work.
The university’s social life fascinates me because it offers opportunities to engage with a diverse community, collaborate on various projects, and participate in activities that enrich both my personal and professional development.
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