A groundbreaking study at the University of Ghana (UG) could significantly enhance the world’s ability to prepare for future viral pandemics.

Led by Maame Ekua Acquah, a PhD candidate at the West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), the research investigates how human genes – specifically those viruses exploit to enter cells – determine the severity of infection.

The project, dubbed ‘Unlocking Pandemic Prevention,’ aims to identify genetic factors that make some individuals more susceptible to severe illness than others when exposed to the same virus. If successful, it could provide a crucial blueprint for predicting vulnerability before outbreaks occur and aid in targeted public health responses.

Central to Mrs. Acquah’s work is the Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2), a protein on the surface of many cells that serves as a gateway for viruses like SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19. “My work aims to understand how human genes shape the evolution of viruses like COVID-19 and why, under similar exposure, some individuals become severely ill while others experience mild or no symptoms,” she told Newcenta.

The research, which began three years ago and is expected to conclude in July 2026, involves analyzing biological samples collected from 1243 individuals in the Greater Accra and Central Regions of Ghana. This deliberate choice allows for comparing gene-virus interactions between urban and peri-urban populations, and exploring whether socioeconomic and environmental factors play a role.

According to Mrs. Acquah, sampling was carried out through community engagement and health outreach programs to foster trust and broaden participation. “This approach helped strengthen trust and expand participation,” she explained.

Confirmation of significant genetic or behavioural differences in ACE2 expression could lead to new ways of predicting individuals at higher risk during viral outbreaks. This information will be vital for public health planning, enabling health systems to prioritize vulnerable groups, pre-position resources, and tailor treatment methods at the onset of a pandemic.

The research has already garnered international recognition, with Mrs. Acquah being named among the 30 recipients of the 2025 L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Sub-Saharan Africa Awards. The awards – open to 25 PhD candidates and 5 postdoctoral researchers from 18 African countries and selected from over 550 applications – recognize exceptional women scientists.

“For me, the award is both a privilege and a responsibility. It motivates me to share my findings widely and make science accessible,” Mrs. Acquah said.

The L’Oréal-UNESCO Awards come during a period of increased female representation in African science. UNESCO data shows Kenya’s female participation in research rose from 25.7% in 2013 to 38.4% in 2023, while Namibia and South Africa now have over half of their higher education graduates identifying as women.

However, challenges persist. Women still account for only one-third of researchers across the continent. The annual Young Talents Awards provide €10,000 grants to PhD researchers and €15,000 to postdoctoral fellows, along with training in leadership, communication, and career development, and connection to a network of over 4700 women researchers.

Mrs. Acquah’s research has the potential to be a key contribution from this cohort. By mapping these genetic variations, her findings could inform the development of more agile, targeted, and equitable emergency response systems.

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the devastating consequences of unpreparedness. A predictive tool based on genetic predisposition, alongside traditional risk factors, could revolutionize triage, vaccine distribution, and early warning systems throughout Africa and globally.

As the world braces for future pandemics, research like Mrs. Acquah’s offers a potential pathway to saving millions of lives and solidifies Ghana’s position as a hub for world-class scientific innovation.

Image Source: MYJOYONLINE