Research chair aims to take results from the laboratory to the community
South African researchers are increasingly looking for innovative ways to improve health outcomes, particularly as the country faces rising rates of obesity, diabetes and other metabolic diseases. A new research chair, the first for biochemistry at the North-West University (NWU), aims to make an impact on the lives of people suffering from metabolic ailments. 

Prof. Sithandiwe Mazibuko-Mbeje, deputy dean for quality assurance and postgraduate studies in the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, is the holder of the new Research Chair in Mycotoxins and Human Health. 

Mycotoxins are moulds and fungi commonly found in grains and other food crops and can pose a serious health threat.

“We need to understand how natural compounds can help counter the harmful health effects of mycotoxins and other environmental exposure,” says Prof. Sithandiwe, who believes science should not only advance knowledge but also make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. She says this is part of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 3) that aim to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for everyone at all ages. 

Research with impact: addressing a growing health challenge

The establishment of the research chair comes at a pivotal time as metabolic diseases continue to increase in South Africa, Prof. Sithandiwe says.

“Diseases such as diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular disease have become a major challenge. Many factors contribute to their development, including the food we eat, our lifestyles and environmental exposure.”

Her research focuses on natural compounds found in everyday foods and plants such as rooibos, broccoli, turmeric and moringa. She is excited about the promising results showing that some of these compounds can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress (an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body), which are linked to the progression of metabolic diseases.

She says the research chair will also expand ongoing work from laboratory-based studies to broader collaborations and human-centred research. “We want to understand how these compounds can benefit people in real-life settings and ultimately contribute to healthier communities. This will open opportunities for future innovations, including the development of nutraceutical products obtained from natural compounds, which will in turn address Development Goal 1 (alleviating poverty).”

According to Prof. Sithandiwe they are exploring ways to translate their research findings into products and interventions that can support human health while also creating new opportunities for society.

Developing the next generation of scientists

Beyond research, she is also passionate about capacity development by mentoring young researchers and strengthening postgraduate education.

“One of the reasons I joined the NWU was that it gave me the opportunity to work closely with students and contribute to the development of future experts from their first year at the NWU,” she says.

The research chair has a strong mandate, which is to train postgraduate students and postdoctoral fellows who can compete on an international level, strengthen national and international collaborations, and contribute to addressing key societal issues. 

Prof. Sithandiwe’s own journey into research was inspired by a personal experience. She became determined to understand diabetes better after her grandfather was diagnosed with it. “The experience sparked my interest in metabolic disease research. I wanted to help people like him and it ultimately shaped my career. It was the starting point that gave my professional life direction and sparked my determination to make a difference in society.” 

Today, her message to aspiring scientists is simple: “Always follow your passion. Remember, your background does not define you. Remain resilient and never stop dreaming.”