Dr. Melissa Nel
Neurogenetics & Neuromuscular Disorders Researcher, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Cape Town.
The Neurogenomics Lab at the University of Cape Town is on a mission to unlock the genetic signatures of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in South Africa. While most genetic studies of ALS/MND have been carried out in Europe and North America, Africa’s incredible genetic diversity has remained largely untapped. This underrepresentation leaves a critical gap in how we understand ALS/MND across different populations.
That’s where the Neurogenomics team steps in. Using DNA from blood samples, we perform cutting-edge genome sequencing to identify genetic changes that may contribute to ALS/MND. Each discovery deepens our understanding of ALS/MND biology, paving the way for better counselling and, in time, new treatment opportunities for people living with ALS/MND and families.
But it’s not just about research papers and lab work; the team is also passionate about people. By working directly with South African patients and healthcare providers, and by training the next generation of scientists and genetic counsellors, the lab is helping to make sure that advances in genomic medicine directly benefit people living with ALS/MND in Africa.
In short: the Neurogenomics Lab is turning DNA into insights and putting Africa on the map in the global fight against ALS/MND – one genome at a time!
If you are interested in following our story or a potential collaboration, give us a follow-on LinkedIn by searching for “Neurogenomics Lab.”