On May 11, 2024, the West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens concluded the second phase of its "Combatting Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR): Genome Sequencing and Bioinformatics" workshop series.
Following the first edition's success in mid-February, this comprehensive workshop integrated both 'wet' lab (experimental) and 'dry' lab (computational) workflows to equip participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to combat the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance.
The two-week intensive workshop commenced on April 29, 2024, and attracted diverse participants, including early to mid-career researchers, students, and postdoctoral fellows working in AMR-related fields. These participants were united by a common goal: to advance the fight against antimicrobial resistance through cutting-edge genomic and bioinformatics techniques.
The workshop facilitators were Prof. Samuel Kwofie Kojo, Dr. Lucas Amenga-Etego, Dr. Collins Misita Morang'a, Dr. Bah Saikou Y, Dr. Abiola Isawunmi, Dr. Samuel Duodu, Mrs. Kukua Bandoh, Ms. Joyce Mwongeli Ngoi, Mr. Vincent Appiah, Mr. Francis Dabangg, Ms. Dzidzor Yawa Ayeke, Ms.Maame Esi Mpere, and Mr. Cyril Kuma.
To kick off the workshop, Prof. Lydia Mosi, Deputy Director in Charge of Administration at WACCBIP, extended a warm welcome to the participants. She offered an insightful overview of WACCBIP's activities and outlined the expectations for the workshop.
Throughout the workshop, participants were immersed in a series of engaging topics and hands-on experiences, including:
Mechanisms of AMR: Participants explored the biological mechanisms that enable bacteria and other pathogens to resist antimicrobial treatments, providing a foundational understanding of the problem.
Genome Sequencing/Bioinformatics and Data Analysis: The basics of genome sequencing were covered, along with the computational techniques used to analyse sequencing data.
Introduction to Sequencing: Fundamental principles and various methods of DNA sequencing were introduced.
DNA Quantification: Techniques for accurately measuring DNA concentration and purity were demonstrated.
Library Preparation: Detailed steps for preparing DNA samples for sequencing, including:
DNA Dilution/Normalization: Ensuring uniform DNA concentration across samples.
DNA Tagmentation: Fragmenting DNA and adding sequencing adapters.
Post-Tagmentation Clean-up: Removing unwanted fragments and contaminants.
Tagmented DNA Amplification: Amplifying the fragmented DNA for sequencing.
Library Clean-up: Final steps to purify and prepare DNA libraries for sequencing.
Library QC, Dilution/Normalization, and Pooling: Techniques to ensure the quality of sequencing libraries, followed by normalization and pooling.
Sequencing on the MiSeq Platform: Hands-on training with Illumina MiSeq sequencing system, allowing participants to perform actual sequencing runs.
Bioinformatics and Data QC: Fundamentals of bioinformatics, including tools and techniques for ensuring data quality and integrity.
At the end of the workshop, participants engaged in project work, applying their newly acquired skills to address real-world problems. These projects culminated in presentations, allowing participants to share their findings and receive feedback. The workshop provided participants with a robust and comprehensive understanding of genome sequencing and bioinformatics emphasizing on relevance to AMR.
Supported by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), this workshop has ignited a ripple effect aimed at bolstering and expanding AMR genomics capacity across Africa. After the workshop, participants were presented with certificates of participation, symbolizing their commitment to advancing the front of AMR research and public health efforts whilst advancing their own careers.
