This research develops small-molecule treatments for chikungunya virus using a lock-and-key approach targeting viral proteins. A key challenge—molecular orientation (enantiomers)—was addressed with a new synthesis method producing over 95% effective molecules. The optimized compound, BDGR-651, shows promise as a future antiviral treatment for this debilitating disease.

Variants weaken current COVID vaccines because they target parts of the spike protein that mutate. This project uses nanoparticles displaying engineered versions of the conserved RBD region to steer the immune system toward making broadly protective antibodies. Computational design helps optimize immune targeting, potentially eliminating yearly boosters and protecting against future coronaviruses.

This research uses agent-based modelling (ABM) to simulate infectious disease spread in regions like Nigeria, enabling policymakers to predict outbreaks, test interventions, and allocate limited resources proactively. The low-cost modelling approach supports governments with constrained budgets and offers a sustainable, data-driven tool for preventing large-scale infections and improving global public health.

This study tracked viral load in saliva, throat, and nose samples collected daily from newly infected individuals. The findings show each sample type follows a distinct viral-load trajectory, with saliva and throat detecting infection earlier than nose. This has major implications for COVID test accuracy, sampling strategies, and future pandemic preparedness.

This research focuses on strengthening fragile mRNA molecules to create vaccines that are more stable, effective, and easier to distribute. By modifying mRNA structure to resist degradation, vaccines could be stored at higher temperatures and maintain potency, expanding access—especially in low-resource regions—and improving global readiness for future pandemics.

This research aims to solve the major weakness of mRNA vaccines—the need for constant cold storage—by packaging them inside ultra-stable protein “boxes” called encapsulins. These naturally robust containers protect mRNA in extreme environments. A working prototype now exists, offering the potential for globally distributable, freezer-free vaccines that remain effective anywhere.