Author: DrChika

Dr. Chika Ejikeugwu (Ph.D., 2017, UNIZIK, Nigeria) is a distinguished microbiologist, researcher, and educator with an impressive international profile. He is a Fellow of the renowned Alexander von Humboldt (AvH) Stiftung in Germany and currently holds a Research Fellowship at the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ) in Leipzig, Germany. His ongoing research within the soilRESIST project investigates the effects of antibiotic mixtures on soil microbiomes, addressing critical challenges in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and environmental microbiology. Dr. Ejikeugwu is the visionary founder and developer of Africa's leading microbiology platform, www.MicrobiologyClass.net, a widely recognized and trusted knowledge hub that supports students, professionals, and researchers across the continent and beyond. This platform has become a cornerstone in advancing microbiology education and research in Africa. Throughout his career, Dr. Ejikeugwu has held prestigious research positions globally. He was awarded the prestigious Alexander von Humboldt (AvH) Fellowship for Experienced Researchers in 2023 and is currently conducting research on AMR in soil ecosystems at the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ) in Leipzig, Germany, as a Senior Humboldt Research Fellow. Previously, he held a DAAD Postdoctoral Fellowship at the Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing (BAM) in Berlin, Germany, in 2021, and a MIF Postdoctoral Fellowship at Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan, in 2018. His groundbreaking work in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) earned him the esteemed Young Investigator Award on AMR from Institut Mérieux, France, in 2021. Additionally, he is a recipient of the NIH CAMRA grant for AMR research, with his project focusing on antimicrobial resistance in poultry environments. Dr. Ejikeugwu is a dynamic member of the Global Young Academy (GYA), Germany, and holds memberships in several prominent professional organizations, including Applied Microbiology International (AMI), the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (ESCMID), the Nigerian Society for Microbiology (NSM), and the American Society for Microbiology (ASM). He earned his doctorate in Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Biotechnology and serves as a Senior Lecturer and Researcher at Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), Nigeria. In this role, he is deeply committed to mentoring undergraduate and postgraduate students, fostering their academic development, and nurturing the next generation of microbiologists. Driven by a passion for teaching, cutting-edge research, and community development, Dr. Ejikeugwu continues to make significant contributions to the global microbiology landscape.

BLOTTING TECHNIQUE

Blotting is used in molecular biology to transfer nucleic acids and proteins from gel to a membrane for identification and analysis. Developed in the 1970s, it combines electrophoresis and immunological methods. There are three main types: Southern (DNA), Northern (RNA), and Western (proteins), each allowing detection and measurement of specific molecules.

SOUTHERN BLOTTING TECHNIQUE

Southern blotting, developed by Sir Edward M. Southern in 1975, is a molecular technique used to detect specific DNA sequences. It involves transferring DNA from a gel to a nitrocellulose membrane, followed by hybridization with radiolabeled probes. This method is pivotal in DNA analysis, forensic science, and paternity testing.

STREPTOCOCCUS PNEUMONIAE

Streptococcus pneumoniae, prevalent in the human upper respiratory tract, causes various infections including pneumonia, often in vulnerable individuals. Its virulence is linked to its polysaccharide capsule, interfering with phagocytosis. Early detection and treatment with appropriate antibiotics and preventive vaccination are vital, especially for high-risk groups like the elderly and immunocompromised individuals.

SHIGELLA DYSENTERIAE

Shigella dysenteriae is a Gram-negative, non-motile bacterium causing bacillary dysentery. It’s transmitted primarily through the fecal-oral route, requiring a low dose to initiate infection. Symptoms include bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramps. Diagnosis involves stool cultures, and treatment may include antibiotics for severe cases. Prevention focuses on hygiene and clean water.

TREPONEMA PALLIDUM

Treponema pallidum, a Gram-negative spirochaete, causes syphilis, a contagious STD spread through direct contact, including mother-to-child transmission. The disease progresses through primary, secondary, and tertiary stages without treatment, potentially causing severe complications. Laboratory diagnosis relies on serological tests, as the bacterium cannot be cultured in vitro. Prevention includes safe sexual practices and treating infected individuals.

Helicobacter pylori

Helicobacter pylori is a spiral-shaped bacterium causing peptic and gastric ulcers, linked to stomach cancer. It survives stomach acidity by producing urease, creating an alkaline environment. Spread via fecal-oral route, it induces inflammation in the gastric mucosa. Diagnosis involves invasive and non-invasive tests, treatment includes antibiotics and protein-pump inhibitors. Prevention focuses on hygiene.

SALMONELLA (S. TYPHI)

Salmonella Typhi, a Gram-negative rod, causes typhoid fever in humans, transmitted through contaminated food and water. Non-typhoid strains, like S. Typhimurium, cause gastrointestinal infections. Infections primarily spread via the fecal-oral route, and effective prevention includes good hygiene, proper food handling, and clean water. Treatment involves antibiotics and hydration.

RICKETTSIA PROWAZEKII

Rickettsia prowazekii is an obligate intracellular parasite causing epidemic typhus, primarily transmitted via lice bites. Symptoms include vasculitis, thrombosis, and systemic infections. Diagnosis involves serological tests and cell culture. Treatment includes chloramphenicol and tetracyclines; prevention focuses on vector control and hygiene. RMSF and Q fever are related rickettsial diseases.

STREPTOCOCCUS PYOGENES

Streptococcus pyogenes, a Group A Streptococcus, is a Gram-positive bacterium causing pharyngitis and various streptococcal diseases like scarlet fever, cellulitis, and necrotizing fasciitis. It produces numerous virulence factors including streptolysins and exotoxins. Diagnosis involves cultural, microscopic, and serological tests. Treatment includes antibiotics like penicillin, and no vaccines exist currently.

STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS

Staphylococcus aureus, a Gram-positive bacterium, is often found in the nose and skin of humans. It causes various infections including pneumonia, gastroenteritis, and toxic shock syndrome, aided by its production of toxins and enzymes. Resistant strains like MRSA are prevalent. Prevention relies on hygiene practices, as vaccines are unavailable.

PROTEUS MIRABILIS

Proteus mirabilis is a Gram-negative, motile, non-capsulated, facultative anaerobic, non-lactose fermenting and pleomorphic bacillus in […]

Monkeypox (Mpox) infection

Mpox, caused by the monkeypox virus, is a viral infection with symptoms like rash, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. Transmitted through contact with infected individuals, animals, or materials, it can be severe, especially for immunocompromised individuals. Preventive measures include vaccination and avoiding physical contact. Diagnosis involves PCR testing, and treatment includes supportive care.