Nigerian Researcher Uses AI to Fight Deadly Superbug
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has warned of a looming crisis: antimicrobial resistance, which could cause ten million deaths annually by 2050. In response, Dr Gideon Gyebi, a Nigerian researcher, is using technology to tackle this global health challenge. His recent study focuses on Staphylococcus aureus, a bacteria behind many hospital-acquired infections and a symbol of antimicrobial resistance.
Dr Gyebi, with over 70 publications indexed in Scopus and Web of Science, and over a thousand citations, is exploring natural compounds called terpenoids. His research aims to block two major bacterial defence systems in Staphylococcus aureus: Penicillin-Binding Protein 2a (PBP2a) and Beta-Lactamase. By targeting both systems simultaneously, antibiotics have a higher chance of working effectively against the bacteria.
Dr Gyebi's study, 'Computational profiling of terpenoids for putative dual-target leads against Staphylococcus Aureus Penicillin-Binding Protein 2a and Beta-Lactamase', demonstrates how Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning, and molecular modelling can speed up drug discovery. The researcher, previously at University College London (UCL), advocates for integrating computational studies, AI, and biotechnology to redefine the global antibiotic discovery pipeline and provide faster solutions to the growing threat of drug-resistant infections.
Dr Gideon Gyebi's innovative approach to antibiotic discovery, focusing on Staphylococcus aureus and utilising advanced technologies, offers hope in the fight against antimicrobial resistance. His work highlights the potential of computational methods in accelerating the development of new antibiotics, a critical need in our increasingly drug-resistant world.
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