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04 December 2023 | Story LUNGA LUTHULI | Photo SUPPLIED
Milton Mogotsi
Charting unexplored territories: Milton Mogotsi, UFS PhD student, clinches victory in National 3MT Competition, unravelling infant enteric virome complexities, poised to revolutionise virology.

Milton Mogotsi, a PhD student at the University of the Free State (UFS), has secured a remarkable victory in the esteemed National 3 Minute Thesis competition (3MT), rising above formidable competition nationwide. This achievement follows Mogotsi’s earlier successes at faculty and institutional levels, where his presentations on the enteric virome of infants in the Free State stood out for their brilliance and significance.

The annual competition serves as a platform for postgraduate students to enhance their academic, presentation, and research communication skills by succinctly explaining their research to an intelligent but non-specialist audience within a concise 3-minute timeframe.

Reflecting on his initial reaction to the news, Mogotsi expressed a mix of shock and excitement. “I was genuinely shocked and excited when declared the winner,” he shared. This victory marked a significant milestone for Mogotsi, as a first-time participant, showcasing the excellence of both the UFS and the Faculty of Health Sciences.

Exploring uncharted territories

Mogotsi’s groundbreaking research delves into the unexplored domain of the enteric virome in infants, a subject inspired by his earlier master’s study in microbiology. “I was first introduced to this research during my master’s degree, and compelling findings motivated me to pursue further studies,” explained Mogotsi. Guided by his mentor, Prof Martin Nyaga, Mogotsi's doctoral journey unfolded into a profound exploration of the complexities of viruses colonising infants' guts and their implications on infant health.

Sharing key findings, Mogotsi highlighted that, despite detecting several disease-causing viruses in infants’ guts, none exhibited clinical symptoms. This emphasises the role of immunity and protective measures like breastfeeding. He also identified plant viruses, potentially transmitted through the environment or food sources, raising intriguing questions about infants’ exposure.

His pioneering use of viral metagenomics in unravelling the enteric virome’s complexity underscored its potential in understanding human health and disease. “Viral metagenomics has become a fundamental tool, shedding light on the composition of the infant’s enteric virome,” explained Mogotsi. 

Navigating challenges

Despite challenges, including disruptions due to COVID-19 and participant withdrawals, Mogotsi persevered, underscoring the importance of a longitudinal approach in comprehending the infant virome’s development over time. His success in the competition not only boosted his confidence but also expanded his networks, providing invaluable opportunities to present his findings internationally.

Mogotsi's advice to aspiring researchers mirrors his own journey: clarity of purpose, resilience in the face of challenges, fostering mentor relationships, and making the most of available resources. His groundbreaking work is poised to influence policy, guide vaccine strategies, and reshape our understanding of infant health.

As Mogotsi approaches the completion of his PhD, the future holds promising horizons for this trailblazing researcher, poised to leave an indelible mark on the world of virology and infant health.

News Archive

Science and goodwill meet drought-stricken communities
2016-03-02

Description: Disinfecting tankered water  Tags: Disinfecting water

“Everyone should contribute to the delivery of clean water to every individual,” says UFS researcher.

The drought in South Africa has impacted the country in many ways. Apart from its economic and environmental implications, the drought also has social implications, leaving some communities without water.

Since 21 January 2016, the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) is working together with the Department of Microbial, Biochemical, and Food Biotechnology at the University of the Free State. Dr Mariana Erasmus, post-doctoral fellow in the department, was appointed to lead a project for disinfecting tankered water supplied by the DWS to communities without water in the Qwaqwa area - which falls under the Maluti-a-Phufung Local Municipality.

She is working on the project with Robbie Erasmus from BioSense Solutions and Martin Bambo from DWS. A total of 53 trucks, 91 tanks, and 420 500 litres of water was disinfected so far, using sodium hypochlorite. “This is standard practice around the world,” Dr Erasmus said.

The work done by the UFS and DWS, who is monitoring the water quality as well as the process of water delivery, is very important. Disinfecting the trucks used to deliver water to drought-stricken communities decreases the formation of biofilm inside the tanks. “The biofilm could contain harmful bacteria such as E-coli. It is important to note that this is mostly the result of secondary pollution, since the water quality from the source where it was taken from, proved to be good. Drinking water with this harmful bacteria that has not been properly managed, can lead to health issues in humans when consumed,” Dr Erasmus said.

The Department of Microbial, Biochemical, and Food Biotechnology, interacting with the DWS on several water-related issues, volunteered to get involved in the project. They strongly believe that everyone should contribute to the delivery of clean water to every individual.

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