Employing (Home) Organisation: University of the Witwatersrand
Project title: Training in 3-dimensional, surgically-relevant brain tumour models to deliver effective and affordable therapies
Dr Omoruyi specialises in Cellular Neuroscience and obtained his PhD from the University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa. He is currently a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Anatomical Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa. His research aims to understand the molecular and cellular events heralding the development of neurodegenerative diseases and brain tumours and to identify therapeutic targets and potential treatment options using novel synthesised small molecules and isolated natural products from medicinal plants.
Summary of Project Destination
Glioblastoma is the most aggressive type of brain cancer in adults. Treatment includes surgery followed by radiation and chemotherapy with temozolomide. Despite these treatments, most patients only live for about 10 to 15 months, and less than 5% survive more than five years. In Sub-Saharan Africa, many patients cannot access or afford surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. Additionally, most research into treatments for glioblastoma does not consider the biological nuance and socioeconomic needs of patients in African countries, as shown by our recently published systematic review. Thus, it is critical to better understand the biology of glioblastoma in African patients and develop effective and affordable treatments. Therefore, patient-derived glioma cells will be used to screen potential anti-cancer agents.
Summary of Fellowship Plan
During his fellowship, Dr Omoruyi will be hosted by Dr Ola Rominiyi, The Brain Tumour Charity Future Leader, Division of Neuroscience, University of Sheffield. He aims to acquire the relevant skills and training to develop a living biobank of patient-derived glioma models from the African population. This will promote an understanding of the unique characteristics of these tumours and identify potential drug targets. Beyond the fellowship, he will train young neuroscience and brain tumour research scientists to promote capacity building.
Quote
“Developing cutting-edge 3D glioma models from African patients could revolutionise the delivery of effective and affordable brain tumour treatments in Africa.”
Dr. Sylvester Omoruyi expects to start her fellowship in October 2025