Integrated Molecular Physiology Research Initiative
About the Research Group
The Integrated Molecular Physiology Research Initiative (IMPRI) applies advanced molecular and integrative physiology techniques to bridge the translational gap between basic scientific discovery and clinical application. IMPRI’s overarching goal is to improve understanding of the molecular mechanisms underpinning non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and to translate these findings into innovative, context-relevant therapeutic and diagnostic strategies.
A distinctive feature of IMPRI’s work is the integration of cutting-edge technologies such as mass spectrometry imaging and multi-omics techniques, enabling high-resolution mapping of molecular changes and drug distribution within biological samples. These approaches support a deeper understanding of disease progression and therapeutic targeting, particularly in the context of precision and translational medicine.
IMPRI’s research is centred on two major contributors to the global public health burden, neurological and mental-health-related disorders, and cardiometabolic diseases. Within these themes, particular emphasis is placed on the role of inflammation as an underlying mechanism driving disease pathophysiology, including neuroinflammation in depression and systemic inflammation in cardiovascular dysfunction. Through collaborations, IMPRI provides the molecular expertise and strategic direction in several projecting in infectious disease and cancer.
These broad research themes are further divided into focused projects that investigate both mechanistic pathways and therapeutic interventions across multiple physiological systems.
IMPRI may offer project opportunities in the following areas:
- Mechanistic evaluation of novel and repurposed treatments for depression, including the role of neuroinflammation and preclinical disease models.
- Investigation of cardiometabolic disorders, including hypertension, vascular dysfunction, and metabolic disease, with a focus on inflammatory and molecular drivers.
- Exploration of the interplay between inflammation, oxidative stress, metabolism, and lifestyle factors in determining NCD risk.
- Application of spatial molecular techniques (e.g. mass spectrometry imaging) to study tissue-specific biochemical changes and drug distribution in both neurological and cardiometabolic contexts.
- Evaluation of anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective interventions, including pharmacological agents and natural compounds.
Staff Involved
Professor Aletta Millen (Director) (Aletta.Millen@wits.ac.za)
Professor Sooraj Baijnath (Co-Director)
Professor Fredric Michel
Dr Yigael Powrie
Ms Radhini Veerappan
Ms Andre Lubbe
Ms Kealeboga Fako
Ms Refentshe Nthlane