Building REsearch Capacity on Oral cancer genomics and bioinformatics in sub-SaharaN Africa Project

Data on population based genetic profiling of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is sparse, and several populations, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, are under-represented. This is due to very limited genetic research capacity among oral oncologists in sub-Saharan Africa. This project aims to develop this capacity through an exploratory study in Nigeria and an online (two-day) conference involving oral pathologists, oral physicians, oral surgeons and bioinformaticians in sub-Saharan Africa. The exploratory study will conduct a whole exome sequencing and conduct copy number variation (CNV) of five Nigerian OSCC samples and compare the CNVs identified in the cohort with publicly available genome library data of 3 other nationalities (Caucasian, Indian, Brazilian). The exploratory findings will be presented in the online conference and a strong collaborative network of oral oncologists and bioinformaticians will be created to develop a robust bid for a larger research project.

Below are the aims of this project:
a. To conduct an exploratory study which involves the whole exome sequencing and copy number variation of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) in a Nigerian cohort and compare the findings with the CNVs in publicly available genome library data of 3 other nationalities (Caucasian, Indian, Brazilian)
b. To disseminate the findings obtained from aim “a” through an online international conference.
c. To form a strong collaborative network to nurture and develop grant-worthy and novel ideas on oral oncology, genomic and bioinformatic research in sub-Saharan Africa