Research - Prof Veron Ramsuran

Advancing Precision Approaches to Infectious Diseases

Infectious diseases remain among the most significant public health challenges globally, particularly in Africa where the burden of diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis (TB), COVID-19, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and neglected tropical diseases remains high. Professor Veron Ramsuran’s research aims to understand why individuals and populations respond differently to infection, treatment, and disease progression.

His work combines genomics, immunology, epidemiology, and precision medicine to investigate the biological mechanisms that influence susceptibility to infection, immune responses, and clinical outcomes. A major focus of the programme is understanding how human genetic variation shapes host-pathogen interactions and contributes to differences in disease risk and treatment response.

The programme has made significant contributions to HIV research, including the identification of genetic and immunological factors associated with natural HIV control, disease progression, and HIV cure strategies. Research also extends to tuberculosis, where studies explore genetic determinants of susceptibility and treatment outcomes, as well as COVID-19, where host genetic factors influencing disease severity have been investigated.

By integrating cutting-edge genomic technologies with clinical and population-based research, this programme seeks to improve disease prevention, optimise therapeutic interventions, and support the development of precision medicine approaches for infectious diseases affecting African populations.

Improving Maternal Health Through Genomics and Immunology

Maternal health remains a critical global health priority, with pregnancy-related complications contributing significantly to maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Professor Ramsuran’s research in maternal and reproductive health focuses on understanding the biological mechanisms underlying adverse pregnancy outcomes, particularly within African populations and in settings with a high burden of infectious diseases.

The programme investigates how genetic, immunological, and inflammatory pathways contribute to conditions such as preeclampsia and other pregnancy-related complications. Particular emphasis is placed on understanding the complex relationship between HIV infection, antiretroviral therapy, and maternal health outcomes.

Through the study of immune biomarkers, cytokine responses, and host genetic factors, the research aims to identify biological indicators that can improve risk prediction, early diagnosis, and clinical management of pregnancy complications. This work contributes to the growing field of precision maternal health, where personalised approaches can be used to improve outcomes for both mothers and infants.

The ultimate goal is to translate scientific discoveries into interventions that reduce maternal morbidity and mortality while improving reproductive health outcomes across diverse populations.

Genomics to Transform Cancer Care Harnessing

Cancer is an increasingly important public health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where access to precision oncology remains limited. Professor Ramsuran’s cancer research programme applies genomic technologies to better understand the molecular mechanisms driving cancer development, progression, and treatment response.

The programme focuses on identifying genetic and molecular factors that influence tumour behaviour and chemotherapy outcomes. Current research includes studies of osteosarcoma, with particular emphasis on understanding gene expression profiles associated with treatment response and multidrug resistance.

A key objective is to address the underrepresentation of African populations in cancer genomics research. By generating population-specific genomic data, the programme aims to improve understanding of cancer biology within African populations and support the development of more equitable precision medicine strategies.

Through the integration of genomics, bioinformatics, and translational research, this programme seeks to identify biomarkers that can guide personalised treatment decisions, improve patient outcomes, and contribute to the future of precision oncology.

Understanding Human Genetic Diversity to Improve Health

Genomics and human biology form the foundation of Professor Ramsuran’s research programme. This interdisciplinary field explores how genetic variation influences human health, disease susceptibility, immune responses, and treatment outcomes across diverse populations.

The programme combines expertise in human immunogenetics, epigenetics, pharmacogenomics, population genetics, and precision medicine to address fundamental questions about human biology and disease. A central focus is understanding how variation within the human genome contributes to differences in disease risk and therapeutic response, particularly among African populations that remain underrepresented in global genomic studies.

Research within this programme investigates the role of immune-related genes, regulatory genomic regions, and population-specific genetic diversity in shaping health outcomes. The programme also examines how genomic information can be translated into clinical and public health applications that improve disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

By leveraging advanced genomic technologies and large-scale population studies, this work contributes to the development of more inclusive and effective precision medicine approaches. Ultimately, the programme aims to ensure that genomic discoveries benefit diverse populations and contribute to improved healthcare outcomes both in Africa and globally.