EDCTP Alumni Network

Fostering excellence and collaboration in the next generation of researchers

All Profiles

Dr Charles Drago Kato

Call Career Development Fellowship (CDF)
Programme EDCTP2
Start Date 2019-01-01
End Date 2021-12-31
Project Code TMA2017CDF-1887
Status Active

Title

Clinical evaluation of Novel Plasma Biomarkers for Stage Diagnosis and Treatment efficacy monitoring Among Sleeping Sickness Patients in Uganda

Objectives

1. To identify plasma biomarkers associated with either early or late stage T. b. gambiense disease using proteomics methods and compare with those previously identified for T. b. rhodesiense. 2. To determine the potential of plasma biomarkers identified using proteomics methods in discriminating between early and late stage patients for both T. b. rhodesiense and T. b. gambiense sleeping sickness. 3. To initiate the setup of a biomarker research team and laboratory at Makerere University.

Host Organisation

Institution Country
Makerere University Uganda

Participants

Name Institution Country
Kato Charles Drago Makerere University Uganda
Enock Matovu Makerere University Uganda

Study Design

In this study, we propose to carry out a clinical validation of these novel plasma biomarkers as stage diagnostic markers. We shall conduct a retrospective study using archived samples from the trypanosomiasis biobank at Makerere University to assess disease staging potential. We shall select patient samples that were recruited at Lwala hospital (north Eastern Uganda) to represent Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense cases and Omugo (West Nile) to represent T. b. gambiense cases. We shall use proteomics methods to find out if markers identified for T. b. rhodesiense also apply to T. b. gambiense. Clinical validation of identified markers will involve analysis as a single biomarker and as a panel of 2 or more analytes to determine the best predictor of late stage disease. Successful biomarkers identified from this study will form a basis for translation into field based dipstick assays for disease staging and inform policy regarding disease staging. This will greatly improve on patient management through the abolition of the mandatory requirement of an invasive lumber puncture that is painful and a discomfort to the patients. Furthermore, successful execution of this project will build capacity at Makerere University by offering critical skills to junior researchers to establish as research leaders. This work will also aid the creation or strengthening of existing networks and foster teams leading into joint grant writing to combat neglected tropical diseases.

Sites

Kampala, Uganda

Students Supervised

Type Name Title University Start Date End Date
PhD Angella Musewa Epidemiology and molecular characterization of Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae infections in swine and humans in Uganda Nairobi University 2019 2022
MSc Cissy Namuleme Levels of Oxidative stress and Frequency of Cytokine gene polymorphisms among Sickle cell disease patients in Mulago hospital, Uganda Makerere University 2020 2021
MSc Immaculate Assiimwe IDENTIFICATION AND CLINICAL VALIDATION OF NOVEL STAGE DIAGNOSTIC BIOMARKERS FOR Trypanosoma brucei gambiense Makerere University 2019 2021
MSc Kesiime Christine THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF INTERLEUKIN (IL10) AND IL6 IN THE MANAGEMENT OF LATE STAGE TRYPANOSOMA BRUCEI RHODESIAN HUMAN AFRICAN TRYPANOSOMIASIS Makerere University 2020 2021

Results & Outcomes

Ongoing

Current Organisation

Makerere University

Current Job Title

Lecturer

Awards

2020 Establishment of a Biomarker research facility to first track the development of COVID19 novel diagnostics and treatment alternatives in Uganda

Students Supervised

Type Name Title University Start Date End Date
PhD Musewa Angella Epidemiology and Molecular Characterization of Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae infections in pigs and humans in three selected districts, Uganda University of Nairobi 2019 2022
MSc Julius Nsubuga Plasma cytokines profiles associated with responses in Plasmodium falciparum and T brucei rhodesiense trypanosome co-infections in Uganda Makerere University 2018 2020
MSc Cissy Namuleme Levels of Oxidative stress and Frequency of Cytokine gene polymorphisms among Sickle cell disease patients in Mulago hospital, Uganda Makerere University 2019 2022

Memberships

Role Committee/board Start Date End Date
Editor Special Journals Publisher 2020 2025

Education

Institution Degree Year
Makerere University, Uganda PhD 2016-01-14
Makerere University, Uganda MSc 2009-01-05
University of London, United Kingdom 2011-08-05

Areas Of Specialisation

Neglected Infectious Diseases (NID)

Grants

Establishment of a Biomarker research facility to first track the development of COVID19 novel diagnostics and treatment alternatives in Uganda
Grant Code:
PRESIDE10.9.202
Source of funding:
Government of Uganda
Amount:
450000
Role:
Principal Investigator
Start Date:
2020-01-01
End Date:
2022-01-01

Publications

Enzyme activity in the Nile perch gut: Implications to Nile perch culture
Authors:
Date:
2013-01-01
Journal:
International Journal of Fisheries and Aquaculture
Content:
Antibacterial Activity of Lactobacillus spp and Lactococcus spp Isolated from Various Parts of Pebbly Fish, Alestes baremoze
Authors:
Date:
Journal:
Content:
The role of cytokines in the pathogenesis and staging of Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense sleeping sickness
Authors:
Kato, C.D.
Matovu, E.
Mugasa, C.M.
Nanteza, A.
Alibu, V.P.
Date:
2016-01-01
Journal:
Allergy, Asthma and Clinical Immunology
Content:
Clinical profiles, disease outcome and co-morbidities among T. b. rhodesiense sleeping sickness patients in Uganda
Authors:
Date:
2015-01-01
Journal:
PloS one
Content:
Xenic cultivation and Genotyping of pathogenic Free-living Amoeba from public water supply sources in Uganda
Authors:
Date:
Journal:
Content:
Nanotechnological solutions for controlling transmission and emergence of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, future prospects, and challenges: a systematic review
Authors:
Ssekatawa, K.
Byarugaba, D.K.
Kato, C.D.
Ejobi, F.
Tweyongyere, R.
Lubwama, M.
Kirabira, J.B.
Wampande, E.M.
Date:
2020-01-01
Journal:
Journal of Nanoparticle Research
Content:
A multicentre, randomised, non-inferiority clinical trial comparing a nifurtimoxeflornithine combination to standard eflornithine monotherapy for late stage Trypanosoma brucei gambiense human African trypanosomiasis in Uganda
Authors:
Date:
2018-02-22
Journal:
Parasites and Vectors
Content:
A Descriptive-Multivariate Analysis of Community Knowledge, Confidence, and Trust in COVID-19 Clinical Trials among Healthcare Workers in Uganda
Authors:
Keneth Iceland Kasozi , author
Anne LAUDISOIT , author
Lawrence, Obado Osuwat , author
Gaber Batiha , author
Naif E. Al Omairi , author
Eric Aigbogun , author
Herbert Izo Ninsiima , author
ibe usman , author
Lisa DeTora , author
Ewan Thomas MacLeod , author
Halima Nalugo , author
Francis P. Crawley , author
Barbara Bierer , author
Daniel Chans Mwandah , author
Charles Drago Kato , author
Kenedy Kiyimba , author
Emmanuel Tiyo Ayikobua , author
Lillian Linda , author
Kevin Matama , author
Shui Ching Nelly Mak , author
David Onanyang , author
Theophilus Pius , author
David Paul Nalumenya , author
Robinson Ssebuufu , author
Nina Olivia Rugambwa , author
Grace Henry Musoke , author
Kevin Bardosh , author
Juma John Ochieng , author
Juma John Ochieng , author
Fred Ssempijja , author
Gabriel Tumwine , author
Khalid J. Alzahrani , author
Susan Christina Welburn , author
Date:
2021-03-01
Journal:
Vaccines
Content:
The role of cytokines in the pathogenesis and staging of Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense sleeping sickness
Authors:
Date:
2016-01-01
Journal:
Allergy, Asthma & Clinical Immunology
Content:
Isolation and identification of potential probiotic bacteria on surfaces of Oreochromis niloticus and Clarias gariepinus from around Kampala, Uganda
Authors:
Date:
2016-01-01
Journal:
African Journal of Microbiology Research
Content:
Nephroprotective Effect of Phoenix reclinata Total Crude Root Extract on Tenofovir Induced Kidney Damage in Wistar Albino Rats
Authors:
Date:
2017-07-07
Journal:
Journal of Pharmaceutical Research International
Content:
Prevalence of pathogenic free-living amoeba and other protozoa in natural and communal piped tap water from Queen Elizabeth protected area, Uganda
Authors:
Sente, C.
Erume, J.
Naigaga, I.
Mulindwa, J.
Ochwo, S.
Magambo, P.K.
Namara, B.G.
Kato, C.D.
Sebyatika, G.
Muwonge, K.
Ocaido, M.
Date:
2016-01-01
Journal:
Infectious Diseases of Poverty
Content:
Multiple persistent organic pollutants in mothers' breastmilk: Implications for infant dietary exposure and maternal thyroid hormone homeostasis in Uganda, East Africa
Authors:
Matovu, H.
Li, Z.-M.
Henkelmann, B.
Bernhöft, S.
De Angelis, M.
Schramm, K.-W.
Sillanpää, M.
Kato, C.D.
Ssebugere, P.
Date:
2021-01-01
Journal:
Science of the Total Environment
Content:
Characterization and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Patterns of Isolates from Ward Fomites
Authors:
Date:
Journal:
Content:
Xenic cultivation and Genotyping of pathogenic Free-living Amoeba from public water supply sources in Uganda
Authors:
Date:
Journal:
Content:
Fluoroquinolone resistant bacterial isolates from the urinary tract among patients attending hospitals in bushenyi district, uganda
Authors:
Odoki, M.
Aliero, A.A.
Tibyangye, J.
Maniga, J.N.
Eilu, E.
Ntulume, I.
Wampande, E.
Kato, C.D.
Agwu, E.
Bazira, J.
Date:
2020-01-01
Journal:
Pan African Medical Journal
Content:
Analysis of the MUII-plus mentorship programme: reflections of Fellows’ experiences and lessons for other programmes
Authors:
Irene Andia Biraro , author
Emmanuella Driciru , author
Rehema Namaganda , author
Fiona Luboga , author
Charles Kato Drago , author
Anne Wajja , author
Brenda Okech , author
Mary Gorrethy N. Mboowa , author
Raymond Muganyizi , author
Moses Kizza , author
Stephen Cose , author
Victoria Diana Bukirwa , author
Damalie Nakanjako , author
Alison M. Elliott , author
Date:
2021-03-16
Journal:
AAS Open Research
Content:
Prevalence of Bacterial Urinary Tract Infections and Associated Factors among Patients Attending Hospitals in Bushenyi District, Uganda
Authors:
Date:
2019-02-17
Journal:
International Journal of Microbiology
Content:
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the major causes of morbidity and comorbidities in patients with underlying conditions, and it accounts for the majority of the reasons for hospital visit globally. Sound knowledge of factors associated with UTI may allow timely intervention that can easily bring the disease under control. This study was designed to determine the prevalence of UTI by isolating and characterizing the different bacterial etiological agents and to evaluate the factors associated with UTI. In this cross-sectional study, a total of 267, clean catch midstream urine (MSU) samples were collected aseptically and analyzed using standard microbiology methods. Data for the factors associated with UTI were obtained by use of questionnaires and standard laboratory tests for selected underlying conditions. The study revealed 86/267 (32.2%) UTI prevalence among patients attending hospitals in Bushenyi District, Uganda. Escherichia coli was the most prevalent bacterial uropathogen with 36/86 (41.9%) followed by Staphylococcus aureus 27/86 (31.4%), Klebsiella pneumoniae 10/86 (11.6%), Klebsiella oxytoca 6/86 (7.0%), Proteus mirabilis 3/86 (3.5%), Enterococcus faecalis 3/86 (3.5%), and Proteus vulgaris 1/86 (1.2%). This study has demonstrated that age ≤19 years, female gender, married individuals, genitourinary tract abnormalities, diabetes, hospitalization, indwelling catheter <6 days, and indwelling catheter >6 days had statistically significant relationships (p<0.05) with UTI. Screening for UTI in hospitalized patients, female gender, married individuals, genitourinary tract abnormalities, indwelling catheter, and diabetics should be adopted.
Scanning electron microscopy of the gastrointestinal tract of Nile perch (Lates niloticus, Linneaus, 1758),MicroscopĂ­a electrĂłnica de barrido del tracto gastrointestinal de la perca del Nilo (Lates niloticus, Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors:
Namulawa, V.T.
Kato, C.D.
Nyatia, E.
Rutaisire, J.
Britz, P.
Date:
2013-01-01
Journal:
International Journal of Morphology
Content:
Clinical profiles, disease outcome and co- Morbidities among T.b. rhodesiense sleeping sickness patients in uganda
Authors:
Kato, C.D.
Nanteza, A.
Mugasa, C.
Edyelu, A.
Matovu, E.
Alibu, V.P.
Date:
2015-01-01
Journal:
PLoS ONE
Content:
Occurrence and genetic characterisation of Acanthamoeba spp. from environmental and domestic water sources in Queen Elizabeth Protected Area, Uganda
Authors:
Sente, C.
Erume, J.
Naigaga, I.
Magambo, P.K.
Ochwo, S.
Mulindwa, J.
Namara, B.G.
Kato, C.D.
Sebyatika, G.
Muwonge, K.
Ocaido, M.
Date:
2016-01-01
Journal:
Parasites and Vectors
Content:
Optimisation of template preparation and laboratory evaluation of the Loopamp™ Trypanosoma brucei kit for detection of parasite DNA in blood
Authors:
Matovu, E.
Katiti, D.
Kitibwa, A.
Kazibwe, A.
Kato, C.D.
Biéler, S.
Ndung'u, J.M.
Date:
2020-01-01
Journal:
Experimental Parasitology
Content:
Plasma cytokine profiles associated with rhodesiense sleeping sickness and falciparum malaria co-infection in North Eastern Uganda
Authors:
Date:
2019-12-01
Journal:
Allergy, Asthma & Clinical Immunology
Content:
Prevalence of pathogenic Klebsiella pneumoniae based on PCR capsular typing harbouring carbapenemases encoding genes in Uganda tertiary hospitals
Authors:
Ssekatawa, K.
Byarugaba, D.K.
Nakavuma, J.L.
Kato, C.D.
Ejobi, F.
Tweyongyere, R.
Eddie, W.M.
Date:
2021-01-01
Journal:
Antimicrobial Resistance and Infection Control
Content:
Prevalence of Dermatophytosis and Antifungal Activity of Ethanolic Crude Leaf Extract of Tetradenia riparia against Dermatophytes Isolated from Patients Attending Kampala International University Teaching Hospital, Uganda
Authors:
Kakande, T.
Batunge, Y.
Eilu, E.
Shabohurira, A.
Abimana, J.
Akinola, S.A.
Muhwezi, R.
Sunusi Adam, A.
Kemuma Onkoba, S.
Almustapha Aliero, A.
Atuheire, C.
Kato, C.D.
Ntulume, I.
Date:
2019-01-01
Journal:
Dermatology Research and Practice
Content:
Developmental changes in intestinal brush border enzyme activity in wild, juvenile Nile perch Lates niloticus (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors:
Date:
2014-01-01
Journal:
International Journal of Fisheries and Aquaculture
Content:
Is there a difference in prevalence of helminths between households using ecological sanitation and those using traditional pit latrines? A latrine based cross sectional comparative study in Malawi
Authors:
Date:
2017-06-09
Journal:
BMC Research Notes
Content:
Knowledge, perceptions and effects of Ebola virus disease outbreak on the pig value chain in the agro-pastoralist district of Luwero, Central Uganda
Authors:
Birungi, D.
Tumwine, G.
Kato, C.D.
Ssekamatte, T.
Ocaido, M.
Majalija, S.
Date:
2021-01-01
Journal:
BMC Infectious Diseases
Content:
Prevalence and Detection of qac Genes from Disinfectant-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Isolated from Salon Tools in Ishaka Town, Bushenyi District of Uganda
Authors:
Gahongayire, S.
Almustapha Aliero, A.
Drago Kato, C.
Namatovu, A.
Date:
2020-01-01
Journal:
Canadian Journal of Infectious Diseases and Medical Microbiology
Content:
Comparison of rose bengal plate test, serum agglutination test, and indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in brucellosis detection for human and goat samples
Authors:
Date:
2018-07-01
Journal:
International Journal of One Health
Content:
Histomorphological Description of the Digestive System of Pebbly Fish, Alestes baremoze (Joannis, 1835)
Authors:
Date:
2017-07-17
Journal:
The Scientific World Journal
Content:
Interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-10 are up regulated in late stage Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense sleeping sickness
Authors:
Kato, C.D.
Alibu, V.P.
Nanteza, A.
Mugasa, C.M.
Matovu, E.
Date:
2015-01-01
Journal:
PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases
Content:
Bacteriological and physicochemical qualities of traditionally dry-salted Pebbly fish (Alestes baremoze) sold in different markets of West Nile Region, Uganda
Authors:
Date:
2016-01-01
Journal:
African Journal of Microbiology Research
Content:
Hepatitis B Infection and Immunity among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Clinics in Health Centers of Mbarara Municipality, Southwestern Uganda
Authors:
Date:
2019-01-01
Journal:
Advances in Infectious Diseases
Content:
Risk estimates for children and pregnant women exposed to mercury-contaminated Oreochromis niloticus and Lates niloticus in Lake Albert Uganda
Authors:
Date:
2016-01-01
Journal:
Cogent Food & Agriculture
Content:
Histochemistry and Ph Characterization of the Gastrointestinal Tract of Nile Perch Lates niloticus
Authors:
Date:
2014-01-01
Journal:
World
Content:
Seroprevalence of brucellosis and risk factors associated with its seropositivity in cattle, goats and humans in Iganga District, Uganda
Authors:
Date:
2019-01-01
Journal:
Pan African Medical Journal
Content:
Field Evaluation of LED Fluorescence Microscopy for Demonstration of <i>Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense</i> in Patient Blood
Authors:
Date:
2019-01-01
Journal:
Microscopy Research
Content:
Histomorphological description of the digestive system of Nile perch (L. niloticus)
Authors:
Date:
2011-01-01
Journal:
Int. J. Morphol
Content:
Transmission electron microscopy of the gastrointestinal tract of nile perch lates niloticus,Uso de microscopĂ­a electrĂłnica de transmisiĂłn para visualizar el tracto gastrointestinal de la perca del nilo Lates niloticus
Authors:
Namulawa, V.T.
Kato, C.D.
Nyatia, E.
Rutaisire, J.
Britz, P.J.
Date:
2015-01-01
Journal:
International Journal of Morphology
Content:
Scanning electron microscopy of the gastrointestinal tract of nile perch (Lates niloticus, Linneaus, 1758)
Authors:
Date:
2013-01-01
Journal:
Int. J. Morphol
Content:
Prevalence of pathogenic free-living amoeba and other protozoa in natural and communal piped tap water from Queen Elizabeth protected area, Uganda
Authors:
Date:
2016-01-01
Journal:
Infectious Diseases of Poverty
Content:
Population genetic structure and temporal stability among Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense isolates in Uganda
Authors:
Date:
2016-01-01
Journal:
Parasites & vectors
Content:
Mercury concentration in muscle, bellyfat and liver from Oreochromis niloticus and Lates niloticus consumed in Lake Albert fishing communities in Uganda
Authors:
Date:
2016-01-01
Journal:
Cogent Food & Agriculture
Content:
Intestine histology, nutrient digestibility and body composition of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fed on diets with both cotton and sunflower seed cakes
Authors:
Date:
2014-01-01
Journal:
African Journal of Biotechnology
Content:
Population genetic structure and temporal stability among Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense isolates in Uganda
Authors:
Kato, C.D.
Alibu, V.P.
Nanteza, A.
Mugasa, C.M.
Matovu, E.
Date:
2016-01-01
Journal:
Parasites and Vectors
Content:
Relationship between Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense genetic diversity and clinical spectrum among sleeping sickness patients in Uganda.
Authors:
Date:
Journal:
Content:
Occurrence and genetic characterisation of Acanthamoeba spp. from environmental and domestic water sources in Queen Elizabeth Protected Area, Uganda
Authors:
Date:
2016-01-01
Journal:
Parasites & vectors
Content:
Transmission Electron Microscopy of the Gastrointestinal Tract of Nile Perch Lates niloticus
Authors:
Date:
2015-01-01
Journal:
Int. J. Morphol
Content:
IMMUNOMODULATORY ACTIVITY OF THE CHENOPODIUM OPULIFOLIUM TOTAL CRUDE EXTRACT IN WISTER ALBINO RATS
Authors:
Date:
2018-02-23
Journal:
African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines
Content:
Interleukin IL-6 and IL-10 are up regulated in late stage trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense sleeping sickness
Authors:
Date:
2015-01-01
Journal:
Plos NTD
Content:
New Putative Antimicrobial Candidates: In silico Design of Fish-Derived Antibacterial Peptide-Motifs
Authors:
Okella, H.
Georrge, J.J.
Ochwo, S.
Ndekezi, C.
Koffi, K.T.
Aber, J.
Ajayi, C.O.
Fofana, F.G.
Ikiriza, H.
Mtewa, A.G.
Nkamwesiga, J.
Bassogog, C.B.B.
Kato, C.D.
Ogwang, P.E.
Date:
2020-01-01
Journal:
Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology
Content:
Analysis of the MUII-plus mentorship programme: reflections of Fellows’ experiences and lessons for other programmes [version 1; peer review: 1 approved, 1 approved with reservations]
Authors:
Irene Andia Biraro , author
Emmanuella Driciru , author
Rehema Namaganda , author
Fiona Luboga , author
Charles Kato Drago , author
Anne Wajja , author
Brenda Okech , author
Mary Gorrethy N. Mboowa , author
Raymond Muganyizi , author
Moses Kizza , author
Stephen Cose , author
Victoria Diana Bukirwa , author
Damalie Nakanjako , author
Alison M. Elliott , author
Date:
2020-08-10
Journal:
Content:
Comparison of HIV drug resistance profiles across HIV-1 subtypes A and D for patients receiving a tenofovir-based and zidovudine-based first line regimens in Uganda
Authors:
Date:
2020-12-01
Journal:
AIDS Research and Therapy
Content:
Thyroid hormones increase stomach goblet cell numbers and mucin expression during indomethacin induced ulcer healing in Wistar rats
Authors:
Namulema, J.
Nansunga, M.
Kato, C.D.
Kalange, M.
Olaleye, S.B.
Date:
2018-01-01
Journal:
Thyroid Research
Content:
Sociocultural factors associated with fish consumption in Lake Albert fishing community: Guidelines for lead and mercury
Authors:
Date:
2017-03-13
Journal:
Cogent Environmental Science
Content:
Plasma Neuron-Specific Enolase is not a reliable biomarker for staging Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense sleeping sickness patients
Authors:
Charles D. Kato , author
Dorothy Twesigye , author
Vincent P. Alibu , author
Ann Nanteza , author
Julius Nsubuga , author
Claire M. Mugasa , author
Enock Matovu , author
Date:
2022-12-01
Journal:
BMC Research Notes
Content:
Cytokine profiles among patients co-infected with Plasmodium falciparum malaria and soil borne helminths attending Kampala International University Teaching Hospital, in Uganda
Authors:
Date:
2018-12-01
Journal:
Allergy, Asthma & Clinical Immunology
Content:
Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Nasal Colonization among Healthcare Workers at Kampala International University Teaching Hospital, Southwestern Uganda
Authors:
Abimana, J.B.
Kato, C.D.
Bazira, J.
Date:
2019-01-01
Journal:
Canadian Journal of Infectious Diseases and Medical Microbiology
Content:

Projects

Clinical evaluation of Novel Plasma Biomarkers for Stage Diagnosis Among Sleeping Sickness Patients
Fellow:
Charles Drago Kato
Collaborators:
Name Country Institution
Kato Charles Drago Uganda Makerere University
Enock Matovu Uganda Makerere University
Objectives:
1. To identify plasma biomarkers associated with either early or late stage T. b. gambiense disease using proteomics methods and compare with those previously identified for T. b. rhodesiense. 2. To determine the potential of plasma biomarkers identified using proteomics methods in discriminating between early and late stage patients for both T. b. rhodesiense and T. b. gambiense sleeping sickness. 3. To initiate the setup of a biomarker research team and laboratory at Makerere University.
Sites:
Kampala, Uganda
Study Design:
In this study, we propose to carry out a clinical validation of these novel plasma biomarkers as stage diagnostic markers. We shall conduct a retrospective study using archived samples from the trypanosomiasis biobank at Makerere University to assess disease staging potential. We shall selectpatient samples that were recruited at Lwala hospital (north Eastern Uganda) to represent Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense cases and Omugo (West Nile) to represent T. b. gambiense cases. We shall use proteomics methods to find out if markers identified for T. b. rhodesiense also apply to T. b. gambiense. Clinical validation of identified markers will involve analysis as a single biomarker and as a panel of 2 or more analytes to determine the best predictor of late stage disease. Successful biomarkers identified from this study will form a basis for translation into field based dipstick assays for disease staging and inform policy regarding disease staging. This will greatly improve on patient management through the abolition of the mandatory requirement of an invasive lumber puncture that is painful and a discomfort to the patients. Furthermore, successful execution of this project will build capacity at Makerere University by offering critical skills to junior researchers to establish as research leaders. This work will also aid the creation or strengthening of existing networks and foster teams leading into joint grant writing to combat neglected tropical diseases.
Subjects:
Archived human samples
Outcomes:
Stage specific markers identified one MSc student trained laboratory capacity improved
Start Date:
2018-07-01
End Date:
2021-12-31

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