About
Pfano Witness Maphari was born and raised in South Africa (Limpopo, Venda). She is currently pursuing her PhD in Biochemistry at the University of Johannesburg, following her academic journey that began with a BSc and Honours degree from the University of Venda. Her early research focused on elucidating the chemical similarities between fungal endophytes and medicinal plants (Bidens pilosa) using LC-MS and Molecular Networking approaches. During her MSc studies, Pfano utilised LC-MS-based metabolomics and molecular networking to investigate the chemical profiles of Asparagus species. Her research aimed to identify active compounds within these plants and understand their mechanisms of action against Malaria infection. This research advances our knowledge of plant chemistry and has potential implications for developing new therapeutic strategies against infectious diseases, contributing to Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being). Pfano’s MSc research laid the groundwork for her PhD studies, with her ultimate career goal being to develop effective and accessible treatments for malaria and other infectious diseases, thus advancing global health and sustainable development. This project highlights the potential of natural products in addressing complex health issues and underscores the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in scientific research. Throughout her academic career, Pfano has shown a strong commitment to scientific inquiry and interdisciplinary research, with a dedicated focus on advancing biochemistry and contributing to global health and sustainable development initiatives.
Research interests
- Biochemistry
- Natural products
- Plant metabolomics
- Molecular networking
- Machine learning
- Network pharmacology
- Transcriptomics
- Drug discovery
