Sequencing & Serology

Sequencing

Our molecular biology and genomics laboratory is equipped with advanced

technologies for pathogen detection, characterization, and genomic analysis.

These capabilities support research on malaria, tuberculosis, antimicrobial

resistance, and other infectious diseases of public health importance.

DNA/RNA Extraction

We perform high-quality extraction of DNA and RNA from diverse sample

types, including whole blood, plasma, serum, tissues, microbial cultures,

vectors, and environmental samples. Our standardized extraction protocols

ensure high-quality nucleic acids suitable for downstream molecular and

sequencing applications.

PCR and Molecular Diagnostics

We employ conventional PCR, nested PCR, multiplex PCR, and quantitative

real-time PCR (qPCR) for the rapid and sensitive detection of infectious

pathogens. These techniques are used for pathogen identification, molecular

diagnosis, genetic characterization, and surveillance studies.

Next-Generation Sequencing

Our laboratory houses the Illumina NextSeq™ 1000, a high-throughput next-

generation sequencing platform that enables comprehensive genomic

analyses. The platform supports whole-genome sequencing, targeted

sequencing, amplicon sequencing, RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq), metagenomics,

and microbial genomic surveillance. These capabilities enable rapid generation

of high-quality genomic data for research, outbreak investigations, and

precision public health.

Pathogen Sequencing

We conduct genomic sequencing of pathogens, including Plasmodium species,

bacterial pathogens such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and other

microorganisms of clinical and public health importance. Sequencing is used to

investigate pathogen diversity, identify genetic mutations, monitor

antimicrobial resistance, track disease transmission, and support molecular

epidemiology.

Basic Bioinformatics Analysis

Our sequencing workflows are complemented by bioinformatics analyses,

including sequence quality assessment, genome assembly, read mapping,

sequence alignment, variant calling, phylogenetic analysis, and genomic data

interpretation. These analyses provide insights into pathogen evolution,

genetic diversity, and transmission dynamics.

Serology

Our serology laboratory investigates host immune responses to infectious

diseases using validated immunological assays that support clinical research,

epidemiological studies, and disease surveillance.

ELISA Antibody Testing

We perform Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assays (ELISA) for the detection

and quantification of pathogen-specific antibodies, antigens, cytokines, and

other biomarkers. These assays support vaccine evaluation, seroprevalence

studies, and immunological research.

Antigen/Antibody Detection

Our laboratory utilizes a range of immunological assays for the qualitative and

quantitative detection of pathogen antigens and antibodies. These methods

support infectious disease diagnosis, exposure assessment, surveillance, and

monitoring of immune status.

Immune Response Profiling in Pregnancy

We investigate maternal immune responses to infectious diseases, particularly

malaria and other infections affecting pregnancy. By profiling immune

biomarkers and antibody responses, we contribute to research aimed at

improving maternal and neonatal health outcomes.

Field Sample Processing

Our team has extensive experience in field-based sample collection and

laboratory processing. We ensure proper collection, transportation,

processing, storage, and quality control of clinical and environmental

specimens from hospitals, community-based studies, and surveillance

programs while maintaining specimen integrity for downstream analyses.

QuantiFERON®-TB Gold Plus Testing

We perform the QuantiFERON®-TB Gold Plus assay, an interferon-gamma

release assay (IGRA) used to assess immune responses to Mycobacterium

tuberculosis. This assay supports tuberculosis research, latent TB infection

studies, epidemiological investigations, and immune monitoring in high-risk

populations