Professor Collet Dandara

Pharmacogenomics, Drug Metabolism and Cancer Research Group

Affiliations

  1. Full Member, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine
  2. Wellcome Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Africa (CIDRI-Africa)

  3. Platform for Pharmacogenomics Research and Translation Research Unit

Key Expertise Key Expertise

Genomic & Precision Medicine

Main Research Focus

The SAMRC/UCT Platform for Pharmacogenomics Research and Translation (PREMED) The Pharmacogenomics and Drug Metabolism Group, which hosts the SAMRC/UCT Platform for Pharmacogenomics Research and Translation, investigates how inherited genetic variation influences drug response, with a primary focus on African populations. Given the immense and unique genetic diversity across the continent, the group characterizes African genomes to identify variants responsible for differences in drug efficacy and safety. This work is esential because African genetic profiles are often distinct from the global populations historically used in clinical research.


Research Objectives & Focus: The core mission is to understand the genetic basis of drug variability and adverse drug reactions (ADRs). By identifying these factors, the research facilitates a shift from "trial-and error" prescribing to personalized medicine, where dosages and treatments are tailored to the individual. Addressing the high disease burden in Africa, current research programs focus on the pharmacogenomics of:
• HIV/AIDS: Antiretroviral therapies (e.g., efavirenz, nevirapine).
• Cardiovascular Health: Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin) and statins.
• Hypertension: Various anti-hypertensive agents.
• Oncology: Chemotherapeutic drugs, specifically for breast cancer.
 

Bridging Traditional and Modern Medicine: Recognizing the widespread integration of traditional medicine, the group also investigates the pharmacogenomics of herbal compounds and their potential interactions with conventional drugs. Clinical and Policy Impact: Ultimately, this work aims to translate genomic evidence into clinical practice and public health policy. By establishing a robust framework for safe and effective drug use, the group is advancing the implementation of precision medicine across the African continent.

Most Significant Paper Authored in 2025

NOS3 rs3918188C>A is associated with susceptibility to resistant hypertension while CES1 genetic variation was not associated with resistant hypertension among South Africans. 

Katsukunya, J. N., Naicker, R., Soko, N. D., Blom, D., Sinxadi, P., Chimusa, E. R., Rayner, B., Jones, E., & Dandara, C. (2025).

This is pivotal work which is confirming that African populations harbour some specific genetic variants that affect susceptibility to diseases and response to treatment. In this case, we show that the gene NOS3 could be an important player in the susceptinbility of African patients to resistant hypertension. The first author is a PhD student, and all the senior author is the PI of the group.