Webinar 10: February 10th, 12.00-13.00 (SAST); 11.00-12.00 (CET)

First talk:- Genetic and environmental factors of neurodevelopmental disorders in Sub-Saharan Africa  

Speaker: Dr. Annette Uwineza

Abstract: Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), a diverse group of conditions affecting cognitive, behavioral, and social development, are highly heterogeneous, with both genetic and environmental factors playing critical roles in their occurrence. In Sub-Saharan Africa, the burden of NDDs is exacerbated by limited access to diagnostic tools, healthcare services, and public awareness.While global research has identified various genetic variants associated with NDDs, their relevance to African populations remains underexplored due to the underrepresentation of these populations in genomic studies. Additionally, environmental factors such as maternal infections, malnutrition, perinatal complications, and exposure to neurotoxins disproportionately contribute to the prevalence and severity of NDDs in the region.Our project, funded by the ARISE initiative, aims to identify the genomic underpinnings of NDDs using next-generation sequencing (NGS) techniques in patients with intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorders, and microcephaly. Additionally, we screened for infectious diseases and evaluate potential environmental risk factors associated with NDDs using a validated Environmental Assessment Tool (EAT) in a cohort of 400 Rwandan children.This topic will highlight the genetic and environmental contributions to NDDs within Sub-Saharan Africa, emphasizing the urgent need for region-specific genomic research and culturally adapted interventions. By integrating genetic insights with efforts to mitigate environmental risks, stakeholders can address diagnostic and therapeutic gaps more effectively, paving the way for personalized and equitable care for affected individuals and their families.

Second talk:- HIV drug resistance in people receiving dolutegravir-based ART in Africa

Speaker: Dr. Richard Lessells

Abstract: Since 2018, in HIV treatment programmes across the world there has been a widescale transition to dolutegravir-based ART. There are now increasing reports of dolutegravir resistance in people receiving ART. In this talk, I will present some of the emerging data from Africa and discuss the implications for HIV programmes.

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