Makerere University Hospital yesterday made history by officially launching the Olink Proteomics Platform, the first of its kind in East and Central Africa.
The landmark event, presided over by Dr. Monica Musenero, Uganda’s Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, took place at the School of Public Health auditorium.
The platform positions Uganda as a pioneer in advanced biomarker research, offering unprecedented opportunities for early disease detection, improved treatment strategies, and long-term health monitoring across the African continent.
The launch attracted scientists, healthcare professionals, and policymakers eager to witness this groundbreaking development.
Revolutionizing HealthcareÂ
Proteomics, the large-scale study of proteins, is a critical frontier in medical research. Using Olink’s cutting-edge technology, the platform enables scientists to detect and analyze tiny molecules in blood and body fluids that act as early warning signs for a wide range of diseases.
According to Source Genomics, Olink’s Proximity Extension Assay (PEA) technology provides high-throughput, simultaneous analysis of proteins with exceptional specificity and sensitivity, requiring only minimal sample amounts. This capability is poised to transform the understanding and management of conditions such as:
Pre-eclampsia: A dangerous pregnancy-related condition involving high blood pressure.
Cancer: Enabling earlier detection and personalized treatment options.
HIV & Tuberculosis: Enhancing monitoring and therapeutic approaches.
Malaria: Improving diagnostics for one of Africa’s most persistent health challenges.
Cardiovascular Diseases: Identifying risk factors for heart-related conditions.
Diabetes: Supporting better management through biomarker insights.
Emerging & Re-emerging Infectious Diseases: Strengthening preparedness for future outbreaks.
Dr. Musenero, a veterinarian, microbiologist, and epidemiologist with a storied history of contributions to Uganda’s fight against Ebola and COVID-19, hailed the launch as a testament to the country’s commitment to science and technology.
“This platform marks a new era for Uganda and the region,” Dr. Musenero stated during the ceremony. “By harnessing proteomics, we are equipping our scientists to detect diseases earlier, tailor treatments more effectively, and ultimately improve health outcomes for our people and beyond.”
Makerere University, long a hub for research and innovation, has received significant support from the Ugandan government to advance such initiatives.
In the 2019/2020 financial year, the university secured Shs30 billion through the Research and Innovations Fund (RIF) to support high-impact projects, a legacy that continues to drive progress. The addition of the Olink Proteomics Platform aligns with Uganda’s Vision 2040, which emphasizes science-led economic and social transformation, and positions Makerere as a leading research and science institution in Africa.
Huge milestone
The launch of the Olink Proteomics Platform at Makerere University Hospital is a game-changer for East and Central Africa, where access to advanced diagnostic tools has historically been limited.
Prof Sarah Stock, the program director at Wellcome Leap’s In Utero who delivered the keynote address, said by enabling precise biomarker detection, the platform will support early interventions for diseases that disproportionately affect the region, such as malaria, HIV, and tuberculosis.
“It also opens doors for collaborative research, with potential to inform global health strategies and attract partnerships across the continent and beyond,” she said.
Other speakers expressed enthusiasm for the platform’s potential.
“This is a proud moment for Uganda and a significant leap toward research-driven healthcare,” said Dr Obondo Sande from the department of Immunology at the College of Health Sciences.
“We invite the global community to join us in this journey to advance health outcomes through innovation.”
