Centre for Human Virology & Genomics

Centre for Human Virology and Genomics (CHVG) is an ISO 15189 accredited laboratory. Yellow fever and Lassa fever are endemic diseases which have been recently associated with high levels of morbidity and mortality in Nigeria. Diagnosis of these diseases have been quite challenging due to limited access to diagnostics. This compelled us to develop two kits namely: NIMR Yellow Fever Virus RT-q PCR Kit and NIMR Lassa Fever Virus RT-q PCR Kit. The kits have been successfully validated are in use. Recently, we also developed an Mpox RT-q PCR Kit to help in the diagnosis and management of Monkeypox (Mpox) disease that caused a recent global emergency. We have other innovations in the pipeline at CHVG.

In the spirit of providing social corporate responsibility, in 2023 we expanded our test menu to include hepatitis surface antibody (HbsAb). Also, we are making it more convenient for travelers by expanding our test menu to include Varicella, Rubella, Measles, Mumps and other assays needed for immigration purposes.

RESEARCH ACTIVITIES

CHVG has three research groups; Viral surveillance, Population Genomics and Cancer (POPGEC) and Blood Genetics and Transfusion Research groups.

The Viral Surveillance Group seeks to understand the ecology of viruses associated with viral haemorrhagic fever and their hosts in order to develop effective public health strategy for their control in Nigeria. This group also conducts research into other viruses of public health importance. The research focus of this group include:

1. Characterization of viruses associated with VHFs, provide information on main reservoirs of infection in VHF-prone areas and train a crop of young scientists in support of the National Control Program.
2. Conduct surveillance and molecular characterization of major viruses of public health importance including Mpox virus.
3. Development and validation of PCR assays (conventional and real time) and serology assays (antigen, and antibody based) for active surveillance. Contact: rosemaryaudu@nimr.gov.ng or josephshaibu@gmail.com

The Population Genomics & Cancer (POPGEC) Group focuses on utilizing molecular and genomic technologies for various research, relevant to improve human health. POPGEC’s current research themes include:
1. Population Genomics and Epidemiology.

2. Cancer and Genotoxicity.
3. Diagnostic Assays Development Programme.
4. Bioinformatics and Computational Biology contact: popgec2020@gmail.com or ck.onwuamah@nimr.gov.ng

The Blood Genetics & Transfusion Research Group (BGTR) focus on

1. Developing algorithm to improve voluntary blood donation and blood safety, for significant reduction in transmission of diseases through blood transfusion in Nigeria.
2. Translating research and product development in transfusion medicine into new diagnostic tools
3. Identifying genes which define immune response to pathogens and blood disorders therefore, discovering new target genes for therapeutic approach.
4. Implementation of Digital Epidemiology and Telehealth in disease surveillance

Contact: bloodgen2020@gmail.com, blood.gen@nimr.gov.ng or os.amoo@nimr.gov.ng

We conduct all our research and service activities in line with quality management system (QMS), as CHVG continues to advance in laboratory systems quality implementation.

The CHVG has state of the art equipment, and many more equipment have being added to the list. We welcome researchers who wants to collaborate with us, just send an email to  chvg.micro@nimr.gov.ng or os.amoo@nimr.gov.ng

TRAININGS OFFER AT CHVG

• Quality Management System Training: As a certified and accredited laboratory, CHVG offers to the public several years of both theoretical and practical knowledge and experience gained on Quality Management System (QMS), to different individuals and laboratories who seek to improve their service delivery and become accredited.

• Molecular and Genetic Techniques of infectious diseases Training: At our highly equipped and constantly evolving molecular labs, the basics of molecular techniques available (manual and automated) will be covered. This will be supported with practical sessions. The experience will be enriching due to the varied research activities occurring at the laboratory constantly. A tour of NIMR Central laboratory facility (which houses a next generation sequencer) will be conducted.

NOTABLE COMMEMORATION DAYS IN 2023