The College of Medicine, University of Lagos (CMUL) has reiterated its dedication to strengthening capacity development in molecular diagnostics to enhance healthcare delivery. This commitment was expressed during a workshop titled "Transforming Clinical Diagnostics with Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Technology: From Microbiome Analysis to HPV Genotyping," held at the Idi-Araba campus in Lagos recently.
Workshop Highlights and Practical Applications
Participants explored the practical applications of PCR in microbiome profiling, the significance of anaerobic microbial signatures in human diseases, HPV genotyping for cervical cancer screening, and strategies for integrating molecular diagnostic techniques into routine clinical practice. Two keynote presentations were delivered virtually: "How Molecular Testing Can Improve Vaginal Microbiome Evaluation in Women's Health" and "The Impact of Male Urogenital Tract Microbiota on Fertility." These were presented by Prof. Ekaterina Voroshilina, Doctor of Medical Science and Head of the Department of Medical Microbiology and Laboratory Diagnostics at Ural State Medical University, Russia.
Collaboration and Diverse Participation
The event was facilitated by Prof. Francisca Nwaokorie of the Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Health Professions, CMUL, and organized through a collaboration between 21st Biotech Solution, Nigeria, and DNA Technology, Russia. It attracted a diverse audience including gynecologists, pediatricians, periodontologists, fertility specialists, clinicians, medical laboratory scientists, researchers, and academics from fields such as molecular biology, oncology, dentistry, neuroscience, surgery, and dermatology.
Facility Tour and Future Commitment
The workshop focused on the growing role of PCR technology in advancing clinical diagnostics. Participants toured the newly commissioned Global Parkinson's Genetics Program (GP2) – CMUL Molecular Laboratory at the University of Lagos Centre for Neurological Sciences Research and Training (CENSRT). This event underscored CMUL's commitment to promoting cutting-edge research and fostering international collaborations.
