Employing institution: University of Lagos
Host institution: Imperial College London
Project title:
Functional analysis of methylation marks in prostate cancer using cell culture and animal models
Dr. Olayiwola Popoola has a background in Biomedical Science and a Ph.D. in Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis. His research interest is in the genomics of non-communicable diseases with a special interest in the oncogenomics of solid tumors. He is currently a Lecturer at the Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Nigeria. His future research will explore how genetic and epigenetic changes in tumor cells can modify prognosis and its potential utility as a diagnostic tool and personalized treatment.
AREF Fellowship research project
The burden of prostate cancer is worst in men of African descent and African men have shown higher mortality rates than their European counterparts. DNA methylation and mutation of genes involved in the DNA repair pathway has been proven in numerous malignancies, including prostate cancer but information on its clinical utility is scarce. ATM gene silencing has been associated with therapeutic sensitivity to ATR inhibitors. It is presently not clear if DNA methylation changes of the ATM gene could modify disease outcomes in patients with prostate cancer. Identification of pattern of mutation and DNA methylation marks at the promoter region of this gene could be explored for early diagnosis and risk stratification in prostate cancer. This fellowship will develop his capacity in the use of cell culture and laboratory animal models for experimentation in cancer research. Provide him the opportunity to build his proposal writing skills in preparation for grant applications afterward. The University of Lagos will provide me with laboratory space and the necessary environment to launch him into independent research.
Quote
“Early diagnosis of prostate cancer using a less invasive approach is crucial in reducing its mortality in Africa.”
Dr Olayiwola expects to start his fellowship in August 2024