Department of Biochemistry

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Biochemistry Staff

 

DR Stanley Mukanganyama (Chairman)

Dr. Stanley Mukanganyama joined the Biochemistry Department in 2001 as a full time lecturer. Previously he worked as a Teaching Assistant while studying for his D.Phil. (1992-1998) in the same Department. He is interested in research focused on Biomolecular Interactions Analyses. The research interests of his group focus on the interactions of chemicals, natural or synthetic, with cellular bio molecules such as proteins, DNA, RNA and lipids. Amongst the proteins involved are enzymes that metabolise xenobiotics, enzymes that are involved in the transport of drugs, as wells as enzymes that are involved in the protection against oxidative damage to biomolecules. Chief to our investigations are measurements of direct binding of chemical species with target proteins.

 

Contact Details

Phone:                     +263 774 863 465

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Courses Taught

Medical biochemistry, drug metabolism, protein structure and function

Research Interests

Biochemical Pharmacology

List of Publications

  1. Mukanganyama S., Masimirembwa CM., Naik YS., and HaslerPhenotyping of the glutathione S-transferase M1 polymorphism in Zimbabweans and the effects of chloroquine on blood glutathione S-transferase M1 and A.  Clinica Chimica Acta.  1997; 265:145-155.
  2. ii.Mukanganyama S., Widersten M, Naik YS, Mannervik B and Hasler JA. Inhibition of glutathione S-transferases by antimalarial drugs - Possible implications for circumventing anticancer drugThe International Journal of Cancer 2002; 97:700-705.
  3. iii.Hayeshi R., S. Mukanganyama, Hazra B., Abegaz B., and Hasler H (2004).  The interaction of selected natural products with human recombinant glutathionePhytotherapy Research. 18:877-883.
  4. iv.Hayeshi R., Masimirembwa C., Mukanganyama S., and UngellThe potential inhibitory effect of antiparasitic drugs and natural products on P-glycoprotein-mediated efflux.  European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences.  2006;29:70-81.
  5. v.Hayeshi R., Mutingwende I., Mavengere W., Masiyanise V., and Mukanganyama S.  The inhibition of human glutathione S-transferases activity by plant polyphenolic compounds ellagic acid andFood and Chemical Toxicology.  2007;45:286-95.
  6. vi.Victor Muleya, Rose Hayeshi, Hilary Ranson, Berhanu Abegaz, Merha-Tibeb Bezabih, Metuno Robert, Boneventure T Ngadjui, Francois Ngandeu, Stanley Mukanganyama. Modulation of Anopheles gambiae Epsilon glutathione transferase activity by plant natural products in vitro. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem. 2008 Jun ; (3):391-9 18569345 (P,S,E,B)
  7. vii.Theresa Chimponda and Stanley Mukanganyama.Antimycobacterial activities of selected medicinal plants from Zimbabwe against Mycobacterium aurum and Corynebacterium glutamicum. Tropical Biomedicine. 2010. 27:595-610.
  8. viii.Stanley Mukanganyama, Merhatibeb Bezabih, Metuno Robert , Boneventure T. Ngadjui, Gilbert F. W. Kapche, Francois Ngandeu and BerhanuThe evaluation of novel natural products as inhibitors of human glutathione transferase P1-1.  Journal of Enzyme Inhibition and Medicinal Chemistry. 2010.  DOI:10.3109/14756366.2010.526769.
  9. ix.Stanley Mukanganyama, Aku N. Ntumy, Fozia Maher, Mbaki Muzila, Kerstin Andrae-Screening for Anti-infective Properties of Selected Medicinal Plants from Botswana.  African Journal of Plant Science and Biotechnology. 2010. 5(Special Issue 1), 1-7.
  10. x.Stanley Mukanganyama, Simbiso C. Dumbura, Leseilane Mampuru, Anti-Proliferative Effects of Plant Extracts from Zimbabwean Medicinal Plants against Human Leukaemic CellThe African Journal of Plant Science and Biotechnology. 2011. In press

 

Details of Current Research

The Importance of Zimbabwean Medicinal Plants-In vitro validation of efficacy and safety: Zimbabwe is a rich source of plants that are used to treat many ailments. This project seeks to give a scientific basis to the plants already used for traditional purposes as well as probe for new anti-infective constituents so as to make new medicines. Plants were once a primary source of all the medicines in the world and they continue to provide human kind with new remedies. Out of the 5000 plant species growing in Zimbabwe, about 10% are used in traditional medicine. Well known examples of plant derived medicines include quinine (antimalarial), aspirin (for fever and pain), codeine (for pain) artemisinin (antimalarial in Coartem), taxol (anticancer) and vincristine (anticancer).  The effects of Zimbabwean medicinal plants on various infectious pathogens, including mycobacteria, fungi, cancer cells and bacteria are being investigated in the Department of Biochemistry. We identified several Combretum species plants with potential antifungal, antibacterial, antimycobacterial and anti-inflammatory activities that could be used as sources for the isolation of active compounds that may serve as lead compounds in development of phytomedicines. However, there is need for standardisation and quality control of traditional medicines and there is need to determine the cytoxicity of these compounds using cancer cell lines.

Principal Investigator:         Dr. S. Mukanganyama

Associate Investigator:       Dr. R. Hayeshi.

Students: This is an active project with 4 Masters postgraduate students on the project. Ms. Elaine Chirisa (M.Phil.- Antiviral/ anti-inflammatory agents); Ms. Theresa Chimponda (M.Phil.-Anticancer drug resistance); Ms. Rumbidzai Mangoyi (M.Phil.-Antifungal agents) and Ms. Tariro Chitemerere (M.Phil.-Antibacterial gents).

 

 

 

DR Cathrine Chidewe

Dr Chidewe is a researcher on underutilized crops and is currently working on an underutilized legume Bauhinia petersiana. The work involves analyzing nutrient and anti-nutrient compositions, bioactive compounds and availability of protein and iron in the legume.

 Contact Details

Phone :    +263772116283

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Research Interests

Nutritional biochemistry and analysis of bioactive compounds in plants

 

List of Publications

  1. i.Benhura, M.A.N. and Chidewe, C.  (2011).  Characterisation of the polysaccharide material that is isolated from the fruit of Cordia abyssinica. African Journal of Biochemistry Research,5(3),95-
  2. ii.Chidewe,C. and Chimatira,(2011).  Determination of the phytochemical constituents of some medicinal plants of Zimbabwe.  African Journal of Biotechnology, In Press.
  3. iii.Muchuweti, M., Kativhu, E., Mupure, C., Chidewe,C., Ndhlala, A. Benhura, M.A. N. (2007).  Phenolic composition and antioxidant properties of someAmerican Journal of Food Technology, 1-7. 
  4. iv.Dzingirai B., Muchuweti, M., Murenje, T., Chidewe,C., Benhura, M.A.N. and Chagonda, S. (2007). Phenolic content andperoxidation inhibition by methanolic extracts of two medicinal plants: Elionurus muticus and Hypoxis hemerocallidae.  African Journal of Biochemistry Research, 1(7), 137-141.
  5. v.Benhura, M. A. N. and Chidewe, C. K. (2005).  Rheological properties of a polysaccharide preparation from the fruit of Cordia abyssinica.  Journal of Applied Science in Southern Africa, 11 (1&2), 12-20.
  6. vi.Benhura, M. A. N. and Chidewe, C. K. (2004).  Emulsifying properties of polysaccharide preparation isolated from the fruit of Cordia abyssinica.  International Journal of Food Science and Technology, 39, 579-583
  7. vii.Benhura, M. A. N. and Chidewe, C. (2002).  Some properties of a polysaccharide preparation that is isolated from the fruit of Cordia abyssinica.  Food Chemistry, 76, 343-347
  8. viii.Benhura, M. A.and Katayi-Chidewe, C. (2000).  Preliminary study of the gelling properties of polysaccharide isolated from the fruit of Cordia abyssinica.  Gums and Stabilisers for the Food Industry, 10: 65-75.
  9. ix.Benhura, M. A. N. and Chidewe, C. K. (2000).  Viscosity and solubility properties of the polysaccharide isolated from the fruit of Cordia abyssinica.  AdvancesFood Science (CTML), 22:(5,6), 165-169.

 

Prof.Christopher James Chetsanga

Professor Chetsanga joined the Biochemistry Department in 1983 as a Senior Lecturer. Previously, he worked at the University of Michigan as a Full Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. He is interested in research focused on chemical carcinogenesis.  This involves an analysis of both DNA damage caused by chemical carcinogens and enzymology of the damage repair. Professor Chetsanga has retired from active research activities.

 

Contact Details

Phone:     +263 772 138 619

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Research Interests

Microbial ecology, nutrition composition of indigenous fruits, drug-drug interaction,

DNA damage and repair/Carcinogenesis.

 

List of Publications

  1. Chetsanga C.J; Poccia D L; Hill R J; and Doly P; (1970). Stage-related transcription in sea urchin embryos and theirCold Spring Harbour Symp. Quant, Biol. 35:629-635.
  2. ii.Chetsanga C J: Boyd V; Peterson L; and Rushlow K; (1975).  Single stranded regions in DNA of old mice. Nature 253:130.
  3. iii.Chetsanga C J; Novetsky J; and Dimino M J; (1976c).  Properties of rat liver mitochondrial RNAMolecular and Cellular Biochemistry 13:147-156.
  4. iv.Chetsanga C J; and Lindahl T; (1979).  Release of 7-methylguanine residues whose imidazole rings have been opened from damaged DNA by a DNA glycosylase from E.coli.  Nucleic Acid Research 6:3673-3684.
  5. v.Chetsanga C J; and Frenette G P; (1983).  Excision of aflatoxin B1-imidazole ring opened guanine from DNA by formamidopyrimidine- DNACarcinogenesis 4:997-1000.
  6. vi.Chetsanga C J; and Grigorian C; (1983).  A dose-response study on opening of the imidazole ring of adenine in DNA by ionisingInternational J.of Radiation Biol. 44:321-331.
  7. vii.Chetsanga C J and Mavunga I; (1986).  Mechanisms of Chemical Reclosure of Opened Imidazole Ring ofChemical-Biological Interactions 58:117-121.
  8. viii.Chetsanga C J; Pettersson B; Pettersson U; Gyllensten U; (1991).  Detection of human papilloma virus DNA by the polymerase chain reaction.  Intl. J. Gynecological Cancer, 1:209-213.
  9. ix.Chetsanga C J; Malmstrom P A; Gyllensten U; Moreno-Lopez J; Dintzer Z; and Pettersson U; (1992).  Low incidence of human papilloma virus type 16 DNA in bladder tumour detected by the polymerase chain reaction. Cancer 69: 1208-1211.
  10. x.Chetsanga C J, Nanotechnology in healthEmerging Technologies: Nanotechnology for Equitable Development.  Conference Organised by the University of California – Santa Barbara and Woodrow Wilson International Centre for Scholars.  Washington DC, USA.  November 4-6 2009.

 

DR Farisai Chidzwondo

Dr Chidzwondo holds a DPhil in Science from the University of Zimbabwe. She is a plant molecular biologist with hands-on experience in gene sequencing, mutagenesis, expression and purification of proteins.  She also has wide-ranging experience with biochemical and immunological techniques including the raising of polyclonal antibodies.  Currently she is acquiring basic training in bioinformatics and biosafety.  She is interested in research focused on the isolation and characterization of lectins in wild plants for use in medical research and in developing diagnostic tools for the detection of bean diseases

 

Contact Details

Phone:     +263 712 808 998

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Research Interests

Plant lectins, control of gene expression, immunochemical techniques.

 

List of Publications

  1. Expression of the cDNA encoding the Pterocarpus angolensis (mukwa) seed lectin in Escherichia coli. Chidzwondo, F., De Greve, H., Van Driessche, E., Read, J.S., Sithole-Niang, I and Beeckmans, S.Journal of Applied Science in Southern Africa, in press
  2. ii.Potential commercialization of a microbial medium formulated from industrial food waste. Zvidzai, C., Muzhinji, N., Chidzvondo, F., Mundembe R. and Sithole-Niang, I. (2007).  African Journal of Microbiology Research 1 (6), 079-087.
  3. iii.Biochemical and molecular characterisation of the seed lectin found in Pterocarpus rotundifolius.  Marondedze, C., Chidzwondo, F., Sithole-Niang, I and Read, J.S. (2006). Journal of Applied Science in Southern Africa, 12 (1).
  4. iv.Mae 1 assay for scoring atrazine resistance is codon-usage dependent in legumes. Chidzwondo, F., Dietrich, A. and Sithole-Niang, I. (2000). Journal of Applied Science in Southern Africa, 6(1), 17-23.
  5. v.Stabilization of rat liver mitochondrial alanine aminotransferase with ethanol andMukorah, F., Razunguzwa, B. and Masola B. (1998) Cryobiology, 37 (4), 30-308.

 

Details of current research project

Bioprospecting for anti-HIV molecules in wild plants of Zimbabwe.

Some plant species only grow in the tropical and sub-tropical climate zones. These tropical plants, particularly those of wild flora, could contain lectins of unknown and potentially interesting carbohydrate specificities and/or stability properties that might find new applications in biochemical research, glycoconjugate analysis and in medicine.  This project, sponsored by the NEPAD Agency/SANBio-BioFISA, aims at producing microbicides that prevent transmission of HIV by binding viral glycoproteins.

 

 

Prof.Idah Sithole Niang(Associate Professor)

Professor Idah Sithole-Niang is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biochemistry, University of Zimbabwe, which she joined in 1992. She obtained a PhD in Biochemistry from Michigan State University where she specialized in molecular virology working with chicken and turkey herpesviruses developing subunit vaccines. Following her doctoral studies she pursued a post doctoral fellowship working on the genetics of photosynthesis in cyanobacteria. She teaches molecular biology to science and medical students.  She conducts research on the genetic improvement of cowpea, and on bacterial metagenomics. She maintains a very keen interest on Biotechnology and Biosafety issues and has written authoritative articles on both subjects.

 

Contact Details

Phone:                     +263 733 412 801

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Research Interests

Genetic improvement of cowpea. Metagenomics of extremophiles.

 

List of Publications

  1. Isfort, R.J., I. Sithole, H.J. Kung, and L.F.1986.  Molecular characterization of Marek's disease herpesvirus B antigen.  J. Virology 59:411-419.
  2. Sithole, I., L.F. Lee, and L.F.1988.  Synthesis and processing of the Marek's disease herpesvirus B antigen glycoprotein complex.  J. Virology 62: 4270-4279.
  3. Debus, R.J., B.A. Barry, I. Sithole, G.T. Babcock, and L.1988.  Directed mutagenesis indicates that the donor to P680+ in Photosystem II is tyr-161 of the D1 polypeptide.  Biochemistry 27:9071-9074.
  4. Smart, L.B., N.R. Bowlby, S.L. Anderson, I. Sithole, and L. McIntosh. 1994. Genetic manipulation of the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803: Development of strains lacking PSI for the analysis of mutations inPlant Physiology 104:349-354.
  5. Sithole-Niang, I, T. Nyathi, D. P. Maxwell andCandresse.  1996.  Sequence of the 3’ terminal region of a Zimbabwean isolate of cowpea aphid-borne mosaic virus (CABMV).  Archives of Virology 141: 935-943.
  6. Mlotshwa, S., I. Sithole-Niang, Ab van Kammen and J.2002. Cloning and sequence of the helper-component proteinase of a Zimbabwe isolate of cowpea aphid-borne mosaic virus.  Archives of Virology 147: 1043-1052.
  7. vii.Mlotshwa, S., J. Verver, I. Sithole-Niang, M. Prins, Ab van Kammen and J.2002.  Transgenic Plants Expressing HC-Pro Show Enhanced Virus Sensitivity While Silencing of the Transgene Results in Resistance.  Virus Genes 25 (1) 45-57.
  8. viii.Sithole-Niang, I., J. Cohen and P. Zambrano.Putting GMO technologies to work: Public research pipelines in selected African countries. African Journal of Biotechnology 3(11): 564-571.
  9. Eicher, C. K., Maredia, K. and Sithole-Niang, I. Biotechnology and the African farmer.  Food Policy 31 (6) 504-527.
  10. Mundembe, R., A. Matibiri and I. Sithole-Niang. 2009. Transgenic plants expressing the Cowpea aphid borne mosaic potyvirus coat protein gene predominantly convey the delayed symptom development phenotype. African Journal of Biotechnology Vol. 8 (12) 2682-2690.

Books/Chapters

  1. i.Murdock, L.L., Coulibaly, O., Higgins, T.J.V., Huesing, J.E., Ishiyaku, M and Sithole-Niang, I.Cowpea. Compendium of Transgenic Crop Plants: Transgenic Legume Grains and Forages.  Edited by Chittaranjan Kole and Timothy C. Hall.  Blackwell Publishing, Oxford, UK, 2008 pp23-56. ISBN 978-1-405-16924-0

 

Details of Current Research Projects

Research Project 1: 

Integrated Bioprospecting Platform, funded by NEPAD Agency/SANBio-BioFISA

  1. i.Microbicides for HIV infection: Dr. F. Chidzwondo & Prof. I. Sithole-Niang.
  2. ii.Bioprospecting from Extreme Environments: Prof. I. Sithole-Niang, Dr.

Alexander Zawaira and Dr. F. Chidzwondo. 

Collaborators

  1. Prof. Don Cowan, Institute for Microbial Biotechnology and Metagenomics, UWC, Cape Town

 

Research Project 2:

Integrated Crop Improvement Project funded by NEPAD Agency/SANBio-BioFISA

Group Team members:

  1. Prof. I. Sithole-Niang: Principal investigator
  2. Dr. F. Chidzwondo (Biochem, UZ) and Mrs. E. Ngadze (Crop Science, UZ)
  3. Mr. K. Simango and Mr. P. Matova, Breeders, Research & Specialist Services, Hre.
  4. Dr. L. Madzingaidzo, SIRDC, Hre
  5. Dr. P. Chimwamurombe, University of Namibia
  6. Dr. Yasmina Fakim, University of Mauritius
  7. Dr. Evans Kaimoyo, University of Zambia
  8. Dr. E. Chakauya, Biosciences, CSIR, SA

Collaborators

  1. Prof. Larry Murdock, Purdue University, W. Lafayette, Indian, USA
  2. Prof. T.J.V. Higgins, CSIRO, Canberra, Australia

URL links:

  1. www.aatf-africa.org
  2. www.awardfellowships.org
  3. http://programs.ifpri.org/pbs/
  4. www.rcz.co.zw

 

MR Abisha Kasiyamhuru

Mr Kasiyamhuru holds an MSc in Spectroscopic and Physical Methods of Chemical Analysis. He joined the teaching staff of Biochemistry department in 2009. Previously he has worked as a senior science technician in the Department. He is interested in research focused on the indigenous and exotic plant foods phenolics.

Contact Details

Phone:                     +263 733 963 574

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Research Interests

Plant foods phenolics and possible application as Nutraceuticals

 

List of Publications

  1. Muchuweti,M., Nyamukonda,L.,Chagonda,L.S, Ndlala,A.R, Mupure,C. and Kasiyamhuru, A., 2006. Total Phenolic Content and Antioxidant Activity in Selected Medicinal Plants of Zimbabwe. Journal of Food Science and Technology, 41 (supplement 1), 33-38.
  2. ii.Muchuweti, M., A Kasiyamhuru, MAN Benhura, B. Chipurura, P.Amuna, F. Zotor and W. Parawira, 2009. Assessment of the Nutritional Value of Wild Leafy Vegetables Consumed in the Buhera District of Zimbabwe: A preliminary Study, Acta Horticulture, 1, (806), 323-329)
  3. iii.Muchuweti,M.,Ndhlala, A. R. and Kasiyamhuru, A. 2006. Analysis of phenolic acids including tannins, gallotanins and flavonols in Uapaka kirkiana fruits. Food Chemistry, 94, 415-419.
  4. iv.Muchuweti,M., Ndhlala,A. R. and Kasiyamhuru, A. 2005. Estimation of the degree of polymerization of tannins during ripening of Uapaka kirkiana fruit. Journal of Science of Food and Agriculture, 85, 1647 – 1650.
  5. v.Muchuweti, M., Mupure, C., Ndhlala, A.R., and Kasiyamhuru, A., 2006. Characterization of Polyphenol oxidase from Uapaca kirkiana fruit. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, 86, 328- 332.
  6. vi.Muchuweti,M., Zenda, G., Ndhlala, A. R., and Abisha Kasiyamhuru, A., 2005. Organic acids, sugars and phenolic acids from Ziziphus Mauritiana Fruit. European Food Research and Technology, 221(3), 570- 574.
  7. vii.Muchuweti, M., Ndhlala and Kasiyamhuru, A. Effect of Different solvents on extraction of tannins from Uapaca kirkiana fruit. Accepted for publication. Journal of Applied Sciences in Southern Africa. To be published in Volume 11, issue 1, 2005.
  8. viii.Ndhlala,A.R, Kasiyamhuru, A., Mupure,C, Chitindingu,K, Benhura, M. and Muchuweti, M., 2007. Phenolic Composition of Flacuritia indica, Opuntia megacantha and Sclerocarya bierrea. Food Chemistry, 103, 82-87.
  9. ix.Ndhlala, A. R., Muchuweti,M., Mupure,C., Chitindingu, K., Murenje,T Kasiyamhuru,A. and Benhura, M.A. Phenolic content and profiles of selected wild fruits of Zimbabwe: Ximenia caffra, Artobotrys brachypetalus and Syzygium cordatum. Accepted, International Journal of Food and Technology.
  10. x.Ndhlala, A.R., Muchuweti,M., Mupure, C., Chitindingu. K., Murenje, T., Kasiyamhuru,A., and Benhura,M.A. Antioxidant properties of methanolic extracts from Diospyros mespiliformis (Jackal Berry), Flacourtia indicaplum), Uapaca kirkiana (Wild Loquat) and Ziziphus mauritiana (yellow berry) fruits. Accepted. International Journal of Food Science and Technology, 2006.

 

 

 Prof .Takafira Mduluza

Takafira Mduluza graduated from University of Zimbabwe with degrees in Applied Biology and Biochemistry and Master of Philosophy in Biochemical Immunology of parasitic infections. After an internship at Blair Research Institute, Ministry of Health and Child Welfare he studied for a PhD in biochemical immunology and parasitology in the Department of Infection and Immunity at the University of Glasgow, UK. His work was on Biochemical Immuno-epidemiology of schistosomiasis at humoral and cellular level. He began working on the immunology of schistosomiasis in 1992, as a member of the senior scientific staff at the Blair Research Laboratories (National Institute of Health Research) in Zimbabwe. In 1999, Takafira moved to the University of Zimbabwe as a Lecturer.

 Contact Details

Phone:                     +263 4 303 211, ext 1344

Fax:                        +263 4 308046

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Office:    Biochemistry Department, Room 101

 

Courses Taught

Biochemistry, Immunology, Epidemiology, Parasite Pathology.

 

Research Interests

Molecular Immunology, Immuno-epidemiology, Infectious disease, cellular immunity, Malaria, schistosomiasis, HIV/AIDS, Vaccines.

 

List of Publications

  1. 1.Imai N, Rujeni N, Nausch N, Bourke CD, Appleby LJ, Cowan G, Gwisai R, Midzi N, Cavanagh D, Mduluza T, Taylor D, Mutapi F. Exposure, infection, systemic cytokine levels and antibody responses in young children concurrently exposed to schistosomiasis and malaria.Parasitology. 2011 Aug 4:1-15. [Epub ahead of print] PMID: 21813042.
  2. 2.Midzi N, Mtapuri-Zinyowera S, Sangweme D, Paul NH, Makware G, Mapingure MP, Brouwer KC, Mudzori J, Hlerema G, Chadukura V, Mutapi F, Kumar N, Mduluza T. Efficacy of integrated school based de-worming and prompt malaria treatment on helminths -Plasmodium falciparum co-infections: A 33 months follow up study. BMC Int Health Hum Rights. 2011 Jun 22;11:9 PMID: 21696629
  3. 3.Midzi N, Mtapuri-Zinyowera S, Mapingure MP, Paul NH, Sangweme D, Hlerema G, Mutsaka MJ, Tongogara F, Makware G, Chadukura V, Brouwer KC, Mutapi F, Kumar N, Mduluza T. Knowledge attitudes and practices of grade three primary schoolchildren in relation to schistosomiasis, soil transmitted helminthiasis and malaria in Zimbabwe. BMC Infect Dis. 2011 Jun 13;11:169. PMID: 21668948
  4. 4.Mutapi F, Rujeni N, Bourke C, Mitchell K, Appleby L, Nausch N, Midzi N, Mduluza T. Schistosoma haematobium treatment in 1-5 year old children: safety and efficacy of the antihelminthic drug praziquantel. PLoS Negl Trop Dis. 2011 May;5(5):e1143. Epub 2011 May 17. PMID: 21610855
  5. 5.Mutapi F, Imai N, Nausch N, Bourke CD, Rujeni N, Mitchell KM, Midzi N, Woolhouse ME, Maizels RM, Mduluza T. Schistosome infection intensity is inversely related to auto-reactive antibody levels.
  6. 6.Arkestål K, Sibanda E, Thors C, Troye-Blomberg M, Mduluza T, Valenta R, Grönlund H, van Hage M. Impaired allergy diagnostics among parasite-infected patients caused by IgE antibodies to the carbohydrate epitope galactose-α1,3-galactose.J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2011 Mar 2. [Epub ahead of print] PMID: 21376382 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher].
  7. 7.Nausch N, Midzi N, Mduluza T, Maizels RM, Mutapi F. Regulatory and Activated T Cells in Human Schistosoma haematobium Infections.PLoS One. 2011 Feb 10;6(2):e16860. PMID: 21347311 [PubMed - in process] Free PMC Article
  8. 8.Mutapi F, Bourke C, Harcus Y, Midzi N, Mduluza T, Michael Turner C, Burchmore R, Maizels RM. Differential recognition patterns of Schistosoma haematobium adult worm antigens by the human antibodies IgA, IgE, IgG1 and IgG4.Parasite Immunol. 2010 Nov 5. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-3024.2010.01270.x. [Epub ahead of print]PMID: 21204849.
  9. 9.Mduluza T, Mutapi F, Ruwona T, Kaluka D, Midzi N, Ndhlovu PD. Similar cellular responses after treatment with either praziquantel or oxamniquine in Schistosoma mansoni infection.Malawi Med J. 2009 Dec;21(4):176-82.PMID: 21174933 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
  10. 10.Sangweme DT, Midzi N, Zinyowera-Mutapuri S, Mduluza T, Diener-West M, Kumar N. Impact of schistosome infection on Plasmodium falciparum Malariometric indices and immune correlates in school age children in Burma Valley, Zimbabwe.PLoS Negl Trop Dis. 2010 Nov 9;4(11):e882.PMID: 21085468 [PubMed - in process]
  11. 11.Milner T; Reilly L; Nausch N; Midzi N; Mduluza T; Maizels R; Mutapi F. Circulating cytokine levels and antibody responses to human Schistosoma haematobium: IL-5 and IL-10 levels depend upon age and infection status. Parasite immunology 2010;32(11-12):710-21
  12. 12.Kjetland EF, Hove RJ, Gomo E, Midzi N, Gwanzura L, Mason P, Friis H, Verweij JJ, Gundersen SG, Ndhlovu PD, Mduluza T, Van Lieshout L. Schistosomiasis PCR in vaginal lavage as an indicator of genital Schistosoma haematobium infection in rural Zimbabwean women.Am J Trop Med Hyg. 2009 Dec; 81(6):1050-5.PMID: 19996436.
  13. 13.Zinyama-Gutsire R, Gomo E, Kallestrup P, Erikstrup C, Ullum H, Butterworth AE, Munyati S, Mduluza T. Downregulation of MIP-1alpha/CCL3 with praziquantel treatment in Schistosoma haematobium and HIV-1 co-infected individuals in a rural community in Zimbabwe.BMC Infect Dis. 2009 Oct 23; 9:174.PMID: 19852800.
  14. 14.Ndebele P, Mfutso-Bengo J, Mduluza T. Compensating clinical trial participants from limited resource settings in internationally sponsored clinical trials: a proposal. Malawi Med J. 2008 Jun; 20(2):42-5.
  15. 15.Mtapuri-Zinyowera S, Midzi N, Muchaneta-Kubara EC, Simbini T, Mduluza T. Impact of solar radiation in disinfecting drinking water contaminated with Giardia duodenalis and Entamoeba histolytica ⁄dispar at a point-of-use water treatment. J. Appl. Microbiology 2009 (106): 847-852
  16. 16.Kjetland EF, Kurewa EN, Ndhlovu PD, Midzi N, Gwanzura L, Mason PR, Gomo E, Sandvik L, Mduluza T, Friis H, Gundersen SG. Female genital schistosomiasis - a differential diagnosis to sexually transmitted disease: genital itch and vaginal discharge as indicators of genital Schistosoma haematobium morbidity in a cross-sectional study in endemic rural Zimbabwe. Trop Med Int Health. 2008 Dec; 13(12):1509-
  17. 17.Reilly LJ, Magkrioti C, Cavanagh DR, Mduluza T, Mutapi F. Effect of treating Schistosoma haematobium infection on Plasmodium falciparum-specific antibody responses. BMC Infect Dis. 2008 Nov 17;8(1):
  18. 18.Midzi N, Butterworth AE, Mduluza T, Munyati S, Deelder AM, van Dam GJ. Use of circulating cathodic antigen strips for the diagnosis of urinary schistosomiasis. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg. 2009 Jan; 103(1):45-51.
  19. 19.Midzi N, Sangweme D, Zinyowera S, Mapingure MP, Brouwer KC, Munatsi A, KumarN, Mutapi F, Mudzore J, Woelk G, Mduluza T. The burden of polyparasitism among primary school children in rural and farming areas in Zimbabwe. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg. 2008 Oct; 102(10):1039-45.
  20. 20.Kjetland EF, Ndhlovu PD, Kurewa EN, Midzi N, Gomo E, Mduluza T, Friis H, Gundersen SG. Prevention of gynecologic contact bleeding and genital sandy patches by childhood anti-schistosomal treatment.Am J Trop Med Hyg. 2008 Jul; 79(1):79-83.
  21. 21.Mutapi F, Burchmore R, Mduluza T, Midzi N, Turner CM, Maizels RM. Age-Related and Infection Intensity-Related Shifts in Antibody Recognition of Defined Protein Antigens in a Schistosome-Exposed Population. J Infect Dis. 2008 Jul 15; 198(2):167-75. 
  22. 22.Midzi N, Sangweme D, Zinyowera S, Mapingure MP, Brouwer KC, KumarN, Mutapi F, Woelk G, Mduluza T. Efficacy and side effects of praziquantel treatment against Schistosoma haematobium infection among primary school children in Zimbabwe. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg. 2008 Aug;102 (8):759-66.
  23. 23.Mutapi F, Winborn G, Midzi N, Taylor M, Mduluza T, Maizels RM. Cytokine responses to Schistosoma haematobium in a Zimbabwean population: contrasting profiles for IFN-gamma, IL-4, IL-5 and IL-10 with age. BMC Infect Dis. 2007 Nov 28; 7:139.
  24. 24.Samie A, Obi CL, Bessong PO, Houpt E, Stroup S, Njayou M, Sabeta C, Mduluza T, Guerrant RL.Entamoeba histolytica: Genetic diversity of African strains based on the polymorphism of the serine-rich protein gene. Exp Parasitol. 2008 Mar; 118(3):354-61. Epub 2007 Sep 29.
  25. 25.Mutapi F, Roussilhon C, Mduluza T, Druilhe P.Anti-malaria humoral responses in children exposed to Plasmodium falciparum and Schistosoma haematobium. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz. 2007 Jun;10 2(3):405-9.
  26. 26.Mlambo G, Mutambu SL, Mduluza T, Soko W, Mbedzi J, Chivenga J, Lanar DE, Singh S, Carucci D, Gemperli A, Kumar N. Antibody responses to Plasmodium falciparum vaccine candidate antigens in three areas distinct with respect to altitude. Acta Trop. 2006 Nov; 100(1-2):70-
  27. 27.Ndhlovu PD, Mduluza T, Kjetland EF, Midzi N, Nyanga L, Gundersen SG, Friis H, Gomo E. Prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis and HIV in females living in a rural community of Zimbabwe: does age matter? Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg. 2007 May; 101(5):433-
  28. 28.Samie Amidou, Njayou Mounjohou, Bessong O Pascal, Obi C Larry, Mouchili Fatima, Tuikue Ndam Nicaise Georges, Sabeta Claude Taurai & Mduluza Takafira. Use of an immuno-peroxidase staining method for the detection of Entamoeba histolytica in stool samples in endemic areas. J. Trop. Microbiol. Biotechnol. 2006: 2:10-18.
  29. 29.Francisca Mutapi, Takafira Mduluza, Natalia Gomez-Escobar, William B. Gregory, Cecilia Fernandez, Nicholas Midzi, Rick M. Maizels. Immuno-epidemiology of human Schistosoma haematobium infection: Preferential IgG3 antibody responsiveness to a recombinant antigen dependent on age and parasite burden. BMC Infectious Diseases 2006, 6:96
  30. 30.Kjetland EF, Mduluza T, Ndhlovu PD, Gomo E, Gwanzura L, Midzi N, Mason PR, Friis H, Gundersen SG. Genital schistosomiasis in women: a clinical 12-month in vivo study following treatment with praziquantel. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg. 2006 Aug; 100(8):740-52.
  31. 31.Mduluza T, Mutapi F, Ndhlovu PD. Schistosomiasis: The Immunology of Exposure and Infection. In: Progress in Immunology Research. Editor:  Veskler BA, Nova Science Publishers, ISBN 1-59454-380-1, 2005: 159 – 206.
  32. 32.Samie A, Mduluza T, Sabeta CT, Njayou M, Bessong PO, Obi CL. Detecting and Differentiation of Entamoeba histolytica and Entamoeba dispar from clinical samples by PCR and Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay. J. Trop. Microbiol. Biotechnol. 2005; 1:1-7.
  33. 33.Kjetland EF, Ndhlovu PD, Gomo E, Mduluza T, Midzi N, Gwanzura L, Mason PR, Sandvik L, Friis H, Gundersen SG. Association between genital schistosomiasis and HIV in rural Zimbabwean women. AIDS. 2006 Feb 28; 20(4):593-600.
  34. 34.Mutapi F, Burchmore R, Mduluza T, Foucher A, Harcus Y, Nicoll G, Midzi N, Turner CM, Maizels RM. Praziquantel treatment of individuals exposed to Schistosoma haematobium enhances serological recognition of defined parasite antigens. J Infect Dis. 2005 Sep 15; 192(6):1108-18.
  35. 35.Kjetland EF, Ndhlovu PD, Mduluza T, Gomo E, Gwanzura L, Mason PR, Kurewa EN, Midzi N, Friis H, Gundersen SG. Simple clinical manifestations of genital Schistosoma haematobium infection in rural Zimbabwean women. Am J Trop Med Hyg. 2005 Mar;72(3):311-9.
  36. 36.Kjetland EF, Gwanzura L, Ndhlovu PD, Mduluza T, Gomo E, Mason PR, Midzi N, Friis H, Gundersen SG. Herpes simplex virus type 2 prevalence of epidemic proportions in rural Zimbabwean women: association with other sexually transmitted infections. Arch Gynecol Obstet. 2005 Jun;272(1):67-73.
  37. 37.Mutapi F, Mduluza T, Roddam AW. Cluster analysis of schistosome-specific antibody responses partitions the population into distinct epidemiological groups. Immunol Lett. 2005 Jan 31;96(2):231-40.
  38. 38.Baay MF, Kjetland EF, Ndhlovu PD, Deschoolmeester V, Mduluza T, Gomo E, Friis H, Midzi N, Gwanzura L, Mason PR, Vermorken JB, Gundersen SG. Human papillomavirus in a rural community in Zimbabwe: the impact of HIV co-infection on HPV genotype distribution. J Med Virol. 2004 Jul; 73(3):481-5.
  39. 39.Midzi N, Ndhlovu PD, Nyanga L, Kjetland EF, Reimert CM, Vennervald BJ, Gomo E, Mudenge G, Friis H, Gundersen SG, Mduluza T. Assessment of eosinophil cationic protein as a possible diagnostic marker for female genital schistosomiasis in women living in a Schistosoma haematobium endemic area. Parasite Immunol. 2003 Nov-Dec; 25(11-12):581-8.
  40. 40.Mutapi F, Hagan P, Woolhouse ME, Mduluza T, Ndhlovu PD. Chemotherapy-induced, age-related changes in antischistosome antibody responses. Parasite Immunol. 2003 Feb; 25(2):87-97.
  41. 41.Mutapi F, Mduluza T, Ndhlovu PD. The effect of treatment on the age-antibody relationship in children infected with Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma haematobium. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz. 2002; 97 Suppl 1:173-80.
  42. 42.Mduluza T, Ndhlovu PD, Midzi N, Scott JT, Mutapi F, Mary C, Couissinier-Paris P, Turner CM, Chandiwana SK, Woolhouse ME, Dessein AJ, Hagan P. Contrasting cellular responses in Schistosoma haematobium infected and exposed individuals from areas of high and low transmission in Zimbabwe. Immunol Lett. 2003 Sep 8; 88(3):249-56.
  43. 43.Mduluza T, Ndhlovu PD, Madziwa TM, Midzi N, Zinyama R, Turner CM, Chandiwana SK, Nyazema N, Hagan P. The impact of repeated treatment with praziquantel of schistosomiasis in children under six years of age living in an endemic area for Schistosoma haematobium infection. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz. 2001; 96 Suppl:157-64.
  44. 44.Mduluza T, Ndhlovu PD, Midzi N, Mary C, Paris CP, Turner CM, Chandiwana SK, Woolhouse ME, Dessein AJ, Hagan P. T cell clones from Schistosoma haematobium infected and exposed individuals lacking distinct cytokine profiles for Th1/Th2 polarisation. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz. 2001; 96 Suppl:89-101.
  45. 45.Scott JT, Turner C, Mutapi F, Woolhouse ME, Chandiwana SK, Mduluza T, Ndhlovu PD, Hagan P. Dissociation of interleukin-4 and interleukin-5 production following treatment for Schistosoma haematobium infection in humans. Parasite Immunol. 2000 Jul; 22(7):341-8.
  46. 46.Mutapi F, Ndhlovu PD, Hagan P, Spicer JT, Mduluza T, Turner CM, Chandiwana SK, Woolhouse ME. Chemotherapy accelerates the development of acquired immune responses to Schistosoma haematobium infection. J Infect Dis. 1998 Jul; 178(1):289-93.
  47. 47.Mduluza, T., Ndhlovu, P.D; Midzi, N; Zinyama, R, Turner, C.M.R; Chandiwana, S.K; Woolhouse, M.E.J & Hagan, P. Antibody profiles of 6 years old children living in Schistosoma haematobium endemic area and subjected to repeated praziquantel treatment. Proceedings of the IXth International Congress of Parasitology. ICOPA IX, (1998): 931-939.
  48. 48.Friis H, Ndhlovu P, Mduluza T, Kaondera K, Sandstrom B, Michaelsen KF, Vennervald BJ, Christensen NO. The impact of zinc supplementation on growth and body composition: a randomized, controlled trial among rural Zimbabwean schoolchildren. Eur J Clin Nutr. 1997 Jan; 51(1):38-45.
  49. 49.Friis H, Ndhlovu P, Mduluza T, Kaondera K, Sandstrom B, Michaelsen KF, Vennervald BJ, Christensen NO. The impact of zinc supplementation on Schistosoma mansoni reinfection rate and intensities: a randomized, controlled trial among rural Zimbabwean schoolchildren. Eur J Clin Nutr. 1997 Jan; 51(1):33-7.
  50. 50.Friis H, Ndhlovu P, Mduluza T, Kaondera K, Franke D, Vennervald BJ, Christensen NO, Doehring E. Ultrasonographic organometry: liver and spleen dimensions among children in Zimbabwe. Trop Med Int Health. 1996 Apr; 1(2):183-90.

 

Book Editing and Chapters:

A Gateway to Biomedical Research in Africa. Editor: Mduluza T, Nova Science Publications: ISBN: 1-60121-444-4.

 

Chapter:

Mduluza T, Mutapi F, Ndhlovu PD. Schistosomiasis: The Immunology of Exposure and Infection. In: Progress in Immunology Research. Editor:  Veskler BA, Nova Science Publishers, ISBN 1-59454-380-1, 2005: 159 – 206

Details of Current Research

Our work concentrates on the immunological consequences of parasitic infection in endemic populations and immuno-epidemiological studies of the relationship between defined immune responses and acquisition of clinically protective immunity. Our aim is to characterize the effector mechanisms of both innate and acquired immunity to parasites, to understand how these mechanisms are induced and how they are regulated in order to promote parasite clearance without inducing immunopathology. We also conduct research oriented to the development and evaluation of anti-parasite vaccines. Current projects include understand how these mechanisms are induced and how they are regulated in order to promote parasite clearance without inducing immunopathology.

 

List of projects:

  1. Observing the evolution of neutralizing antibodies during early and acute HIV-1C infections.
  2. Development and contribution of neutralizing antibodies in PMTCT.
  3. Standardization and evaluation of different malaria vaccine candidates by ELISA.
  4. The immuno-epidemiological consequences of Plasmodium falciprum and HIV co-infection and the immune-epidemiological and molecular biology of Plasmodium falciparum and Schistosoma haematobium co-infection.
  5. Female genital schistosomiasis treatment with praziquantel and its association with HIV infection.
  6. Parasitic worms and health in rural, farming and peri-urban Zimbabwean school children.
  7. vii.Mechanisms of cytokine regulation, especially the balance between pro-inflammatory cytokine such as IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha and anti-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-10, IL-4 and TGF-beta.
  8. viii.Influence of schistosomiasis infection on viral replication disease progression and immune activation in human immunodeficiency virus-1C (HIV-1C) infected individuals.

 

Operational Research:

Professor Mduluza also leads a multidisciplinary operational research programme in Zimbabwe towards the control of schistosomiasis, soil transmitted helminths and malaria; studying the relationship between intensity of parasitic transmission and burden of disease. Our particular research interest here is the relationship between transmission intensity, acquisition of protective immunity and the immunological basis of severe parasitic infection.