27 September 2023 Volume :11 Issue :51

Harnessing Natural Sources to Treat Viral Diseases

Dr Akwasi Boadu graduated with a doctoral degree in Pharmaceutical Chemistry.

‘I have learned a great deal that I intend to use to enhance my skills and contribute to the betterment of society. My vision is to establish pharmaceutical manufacturing companies specialising in medicines derived from natural sources, offering an alternative to conventional medications.’

These were the words of Dr Akwasi Boadu who graduated with a PhD in Pharmaceutical Chemistry. Boadu, who is the Director of Wesbury College of Science in Ghana, conducted a comprehensive study titled Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Analysis of Leaf Extracts of Spondias Mombin Linn as Potential Antiviral Agents under the guidance of Professors Rajshekhar Karpoormath and Manimbulu Nlooto. 

Spondias Mombin is a fruit tree that is grown in a number of African countries. Boadu’s findings indicated that leaf extracts from the tree could pave the way for further research on the treatment of viral diseases. The compounds found in the leaf extracts were identified as potential therapeutic agents against SARS-CoV-2, Ebola, Marburg, and Rhinovirus that pose significant health challenges. 

Reflecting on the significance of his research, Boadu noted, ‘My work has direct implications for the treatment of re-emerging and emerging viral diseases. It provides a scientific basis for potential improvements and policy changes regarding the use of herbal extracts, particularly within the African continent.’ 

Ground-breaking aspects of his investigation included the discovery of two novel compounds in Spondias Mombin leaf extracts, namely 6-methyl heptyl pentadecanoate and 6-methyl heptyl 15-(1,2,3,4,4a,8a-hexahydronaphthalen-1-yl) pentadecanoate. 

The most significant challenge Boadu faced was the complete lockdown of campuses and laboratories during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. He also struggled to balance the demands of his research which involved spending an hour-and-a-half each day travelling to and from the laboratory with caring for his three young children, as his wife, a nurse, worked long hours away from home. However, he noted that he overcame these and other hurdles through unwavering determination. 

Words: Nombuso Dlamini

Photograph: Albert Hirasen

author : .
author email : .