Groundbreaking Research Unveils Genetic Susceptibility too Tuberculosis in Burkina Faso
On January 11, 2025, Astrid Yasmine Sana, a biomedical technologist at the Medical Center with Surgical Branch (CMA) of Saponé, defended her doctoral thesis in Molecular Biology-Microbiology-Genetics at Joseph Ki-zerbo University in Ouagadougou. Her groundbreaking research, titled “Polymorphisms of genes encoding interferon-γ and their implications in susceptibility to mycobacterial infections,” sheds new light on the genetic factors predisposing individuals to tuberculosis (TB), a pressing public health issue in Burkina Faso.
Sana’s study focused on analyzing the genetic susceptibility to TB through genotypes, examining a sample of 168 tuberculosis patients surveyed between May 2024 and January 2025. The findings revealed that 74.5% of patients carried risk genes, specifically the AA genotype. “We wanted to know which patients are likely to have tuberculosis genetically. We have been working on interferon gamma polymorphisms that predispose to tuberculosis in some humans,” Sana explained. She further elaborated, “This polymorphism undergoes mutations and, with these mutations, the body is unable to correctly produce interferon gamma, which is a key player in the body’s fight against tuberculosis.”
The research, supervised by Dr. Tani Sagna, began in 2021 when the thesis draft was submitted to the World Health Academy. Dr. Sagna expressed satisfaction with the results, stating, “It’s an exploratory study that we conducted, so it’s about continuing the research with her and with other students.”
The jury, composed of six members from the Science and Technology doctoral school, praised the study’s relevance and originality. Professor Florencia Djigma, the jury president, remarked, “The results presented today by the candidate are truly relevant. There are many people each year who contract tuberculosis, and it is our duty, as researchers, to try to better understand the genetic implications of this pathology within the Burkinabe population.”
Sana’s thesis was accepted with the highest distinction, earning her the title of Doctor with a “very honorable” mention.She has pledged to extend her research, stating, “We will try to extend the study, look for other genes that can predispose to tuberculosis.”
This study marks a significant step forward in understanding the genetic architecture of tuberculosis susceptibility, offering hope for more targeted interventions and treatments in the fight against this devastating disease.
| Key Findings | Details |
|——————-|————-|
| Sample Size | 168 tuberculosis patients |
| Risk Gene Prevalence | 74.5% with AA genotype |
| research Focus | Interferon-γ polymorphisms and TB susceptibility |
| Supervisor | Dr. Tani sagna |
| Jury Verdict | Thesis accepted with “very honorable” mention |
Sana’s work underscores the critical role of genetic research in addressing public health challenges, notably in regions like Burkina Faso, where tuberculosis remains a significant burden. Her findings pave the way for future studies aimed at identifying additional genetic markers and developing innovative strategies to combat this persistent disease.
Unlocking the Genetic Secrets of Tuberculosis Susceptibility in Burkina Faso
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In a groundbreaking study,Astrid Yasmine Sana,a biomedical technologist at the Medical Center with Surgical Branch (CMA) of saponé,has uncovered critical genetic factors that predispose individuals to tuberculosis (TB) in Burkina Faso. Her research,which focused on interferon-γ polymorphisms,has significant implications for understanding and combating this devastating disease. We sat down with Dr. Amadou Traoré, a leading geneticist and TB expert, to discuss the findings and their potential impact on public health.
The Genesis of the Study
Senior Editor: Dr. Traoré, thank you for joining us today. Can you start by telling us how this study came about and what inspired Astrid Yasmine Sana to focus on interferon-γ polymorphisms?
Dr. Amadou Traoré: Thank you for having me. Astrid’s work is truly remarkable. The study was inspired by the pressing need to understand why certain individuals in Burkina Faso are more susceptible to TB than others. TB is a major public health issue here, and while environmental and social factors play a role, genetics is a critical piece of the puzzle. Astrid’s focus on interferon-γ polymorphisms stems from the fact that this cytokine is essential for the immune response against TB. Mutations in the genes encoding interferon-γ can impair the body’s ability to fight off the infection, making individuals more susceptible.
Key Findings and Their Implications
Senior Editor: The study found that 74.5% of the TB patients carried the AA genotype. What does this mean for our understanding of TB susceptibility?
Dr. Amadou Traoré: This finding is significant as it highlights the prevalence of a genetic variant that increases susceptibility to TB. The AA genotype is associated with a reduced ability to produce interferon-γ, which is crucial for mounting an effective immune response against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This means that individuals with this genotype are at a higher risk of developing TB. Understanding this genetic predisposition allows us to identify at-risk populations and possibly develop targeted interventions, such as personalized treatments or preventive measures.
The Role of Genetic Research in Public Health
Senior Editor: How do you see this research contributing to the broader fight against TB, especially in regions like Burkina Faso where the disease is endemic?
Dr. Amadou Traoré: This research is a game-changer. By identifying specific genetic markers associated with TB susceptibility, we can better understand the disease’s epidemiology and develop more effective strategies to combat it. For instance, genetic screening could be used to identify individuals at higher risk, allowing for early intervention and treatment. Additionally, this knowledge can inform vaccine development and other public health initiatives aimed at reducing the burden of TB in endemic regions. Astrid’s work is a crucial step toward personalized medicine in the fight against TB.
Future Directions and Collaborations
Senior editor: Astrid has expressed her intention to extend her research. What are the next steps, and how can the scientific community support these efforts?
Dr. Amadou Traoré: Astrid’s commitment to extending her research is commendable.The next steps involve identifying additional genetic markers that may contribute to TB susceptibility and exploring how these markers interact with environmental factors. Collaboration will be key. The scientific community can support these efforts by providing funding, sharing data, and fostering international partnerships. By working together, we can accelerate the pace of discovery and translate these findings into tangible benefits for patients.
Final Thoughts and Acknowledgments
Senior editor: Dr. Traoré, any final thoughts on Astrid’s research and its potential impact?
Dr. Amadou Traoré: Astrid’s research is a testament to the power of genetic research in addressing public health challenges. Her findings not onyl advance our understanding of TB but also offer hope for more targeted and effective interventions. I would like to commend Astrid, her supervisor Dr.Tani Sagna, and the entire research team for their dedication and hard work. This study is a significant milestone in the fight against TB, and I look forward to seeing how it will shape future research and public health strategies.
