Recipient of several NRF scholarships, Dr Caitlin Ramnarain, graduated with a PhD.UKZN PhD Graduate Advances Research into Fungal Infections in Women
Dr Caitlin Ramnarain has graduated with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Medical Microbiology from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), marking a significant milestone in her academic journey and contributing valuable new insights into fungal infections affecting women’s health.
Supervised by Dr Refilwe Phemelo Molatlhegi and co-supervised by Professor Nathlee Abbai, her study, ‘Profiling of Vaginal Candida Isolates from South African Women: Exploring Potential Alternative Therapeutic Strategies’, investigated the prevalence, genetic characteristics, and treatment resistance patterns of Candida infections, with a strong focus on identifying more effective and affordable treatment options.
Candida infections, particularly those caused by Candida albicans (C. albicans), remain a common but increasingly complex public health concern due to rising antifungal resistance. Ramnarain’s research revealed that while C. albicans remains the dominant species, there is growing resistance to commonly used antifungal drugs such as fluconazole, raising concerns about treatment effectiveness in clinical settings.
Her work further identified genetic variations and overexpression of resistance-associated genes, including ERG11, which play a role in antifungal treatment failure. These molecular insights provide a deeper understanding of how Candida adapts and survives, particularly in vulnerable populations such as women of reproductive age.
Importantly, the study also explored innovative alternative treatment strategies. Ramnarain evaluated plant-based nanoemulsions derived from Ocimum tenuiflorum (Tulsi), Azadirachta indica (Neem) and Moringa oleifera, alongside probiotic-derived Lactobacillus supernatants. These natural compounds demonstrated promising antifungal and antibiofilm activity, suggesting potential as complementary or alternative therapies in the future.
“The findings contribute to improving how we diagnose and manage Candida infections,” Ramnarain explained. “By addressing antifungal resistance and exploring alternative therapies, we can support more effective and accessible treatment options, particularly for women in South Africa.”
Her research stands out for integrating phenotypic, genotypic and molecular approaches within a South African clinical context, offering a comprehensive view of infection patterns and resistance mechanisms. It also provides practical value by validating alternative therapeutic options that could ease the burden on conventional antifungal treatments.
Reflecting on her achievement, Ramnarain described completing her PhD as both fulfilling and humbling. “This journey has been one of resilience, growth, and perseverance. I feel deeply proud to have reached this milestone,” she said. “It also marks the beginning of a new chapter where I hope to contribute meaningfully to scientific research and improved health outcomes.”
Her academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Genetics and Microbiology, followed by an Honours in Medical Microbiology, where her passion for infectious diseases took root. A deeply personal experience at the age of nine, when she and her father were both diagnosed with tuberculosis, further shaped her commitment to medical research and understanding infectious diseases.
Ramnarain credits much of her success to her support system, particularly her late father, Mr Rakesh Ramnarain, who passed away during her PhD journey in 2024. “He was my biggest supporter and believed in me completely. Completing my PhD is a tribute to him,” she said. She also acknowledged the unwavering support of her mother, sister, and husband, who stood by her throughout her studies.
Her time at UKZN was marked by academic growth, mentorship, and achievement, including graduating cum laude at honours level, receiving multiple National Research Foundation (NRF) scholarships, and becoming a member of the Golden Key International Honour Society.
Despite the demands of her doctoral research, Ramnarain balanced her academic life with personal passions such as poetry, swimming, chess, and spending time with loved ones.
Words: MaryAnn Francis
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini