An important initiative in this regard is aimed at the determination of virological resistance profiles of HIV. Phylogenetic analysis shows a diverse epidemic with no clustering of resistance genes. As for TB, we have addressed the challenges associated with the transport of sputum samples from the clinic to the laboratory for further processing. A molecular transport medium, PrimeStore, was evaluated by Anova with promising results.
We have also contributed to the validation of several molecular tests for the detection of curable STIs (Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Trichomonas vaginalis and Mycoplasma genitalium) and are currently working on molecular epidemiology of these infections in South Africa through various molecular typing methods.