PAULESI at Inqaba Biotec West Africa for Molecular Biology Workshop
The molecular biology training at Inqaba Biotec West Africa, Ibadan, Oyo State (April 3-7, 2023) played an important role in understanding molecular practices that focus on the studies of biological activity at cellular and molecular levels. The workshop training involved various studies on the properties of DNA, RNA, proteins, plus other molecular operations such as pipetting, extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis and sequencing.
The importance of this workshop lies in its ability to provide a deep understanding of the fundamental processes that occur in human, animal and plant living organisms. Understanding this can lead to the development of new treatments for diseases, infections, viruses, the discovery of new drugs, and the improvement of agricultural practices.
Having good knowledge in molecular biology can provide insights into the molecular mechanisms of diseases, developing new therapies and diagnostic tools, and improving agricultural productivity. Also, by developing new drugs that target specific molecules involved in disease can be used to develop highly sensitive and specific diagnostic tools that can detect diseases at an early stage. For example, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) can be used to detect the presence of infectious agents, such as viruses and bacteria, in clinical samples. These advancements can contribute to improving the quality of life, promoting economic development, and reducing healthcare costs.
As an institute, we seek to evolve into an institution of excellence in life and earth sciences, developing human capacity to constitute the bedrock for an African pool of higher education and research. This training is therefore part of the process, and the acquired skills will be deployed towards improving our research and enhancing the skills of our students across various programs, leading to significant discoveries for the benefit of humanity and to better development.