Dr Isaac Jegede from Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, South Africa visited ICGEB Trieste, Italy to commence his research project as part of the ICGEB Special Historically Disadvantaged Institutes Programme.
This year, the ICGEB Special Programme with South African Historically Disadvantaged Institutions (HDIs), in partnership with the South African Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) awarded seven research grants, of which Dr Jegede’s is one.
Dr Jegede’s project is on the Impact of cART loaded DNA/Nanoparticle Conjugates on cardiovascular disease risk factor profiles, working in collaboration with Dr Serena Zacchigna, Cardiovascular Biology Group in Trieste, Italy.
From 25 November to 5 December 2024, the visit focused on capacity building, collaborative activities and training, including learning how to assess vascular dysfunction using high-end microscopic techniques. Commenting on his visit, Dr Jegede explains, ‘We have explored various immunolabelling techniques for assessing endothelial permeability, using immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy. We also used the opportunity to discuss future research collaborative activities, grant applications, training, workshops and skills transfer, as well as the joint supervision of postgraduate students.’
It has been a highly rewarding experience. I thank the ICGEB for this opportunity and Sefako Makgatho University Management for their support – Dr Isaac Jegede
The ICGEB HDI Programme, now within its second year, focuses on the need to support capacity development and build synergies with HDIs. The goal remains to promote collaboration, train young scientists as well as the development of research facilities at the HDIs.
