Korede Abdullah in Lagos
Nigerian scientist, Marvellous Oladeji is pioneering a new frontier in cancer treatment through his groundbreaking research at Purdue University, USA.
His work focuses on the development of synthetic molecules called cyclic dinucleotide STING (Stimulator of Interferon Genes) agonists, designed to activate the body’s innate immune system to fight cancer.
“By harnessing innate immunity, this approach could potentially overcome resistance seen in many patients undergoing conventional cancer therapies,” Oladeji explained.
Targeting the STING pathway—a biological system that detects abnormal DNA and triggers immune responses—Oladeji has engineered novel CDN analogs with enhanced stability and immune-activating properties.
These agents significantly boost the production of interferons, essential proteins in immune defense, and facilitate immune cell infiltration into tumors.
“This work addresses a major challenge in oncology: the limited effectiveness of existing treatments against solid tumours and in patients with low immune responsiveness,” he noted.
Oladeji’s research represents a step forward in global efforts to develop next-generation immunotherapies with long-lasting effects.
“By stimulating early immune recognition, the STING-based therapy could improve outcomes where current methods fall short,” he added.
His efforts also spotlight the expanding influence of African scientists in addressing global health challenges, especially in the rapidly evolving field of cancer research.
