Special greeting everyone!
As we recap on some wonderful experiences in 2025, the 3rd quarter of the year has been nothing short of amazing for TTL. Our lab has kept busy through participating in educational workshops, international conferences, and premier industry expos. Coming off the heels of the 2nd quarter, TTL members (Dr. Morena Tinte, Dr. Anza Ramabulana and Faith Phahlane) were privileged to have attended and co-facilitated the Advanced LC-MS-Based Plant Metabolomics Workshop co-hosted by the University of Venda (with Prof Edwin Madala), the Research Centre for Plant Metabolomics (RCPM) at the University of Johannesburg, the African Centre for Gene Technology (ACGT) and Diplomatics. Set in the scenic surroundings of Limpopo, the workshop brought together scientists, students, and experts exploring the chemical complexity of African medicinal plants. Participants engaged in practical sessions on extraction methods, LC-MS instrumentation, and metabolomic data analysis. The training not only built technical skills but also emphasized the vital role of metabolomics in preserving and validating South African indigenous knowledge. For researchers in natural products and African ethnomedicine, it was both an educational platform and a powerful call to action.
Continuing the momentum, TTL showcased its research at the 21st Annual International Conference of the Metabolomics Society (MetSoc 2025) in Prague (Czech Republic). Our PI delivered an oral presentation showcasing how computational metabolomics can be applied to explore South Africa’s diverse flora. Complementing his talk, TTL members Dr. Motseoa Lephatsi (postdoctoral research fellow), Ms. Kgalaletso Othibeng, and Ms. Akhona Myoli (both final year PhD candidates) presented innovative research emphasizing the role of computational metabolomics and artificial intelligence (AI) strategies in natural product studies for drug discovery. The conference also provided an opportunity for TTL to engage with collaborators, including the Justin van der Hooft computational metabolomics group.
As with many international conferences, side meetings related to Society activities were held, and our PI took part in sessions such as the International Affiliates meeting. For the TTL team, attending MetSoc 2025 was not only a chance to network, exchange ideas, and strengthen collaborations, but also to form lasting friendships with colleagues from across the globe. Beyond the scientific sessions, the team enjoyed exploring Prague, strolling across its historic bridges and castle, experiencing a trip that blended scientific discovery with an unforgettable cultural adventure.
In more local adventures, TTL visited the Analytica Lab Africa trade fair 2025 held at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand (SA). Being the continent’s largest trade fair, the event drew scientists, suppliers, and decision-makers from around the world to showcase cutting-edge advancements. The 2025 edition featured a wide array of exhibitors and technical sessions covering topics such as lab automation, sustainable laboratory solutions, advanced analytical instrumentation, and the integration of AI in diagnostics. During the fair, we were delighted to connect with Tondani Promise Ndou (TTL alumni) and our industry friends from Waters Corporation, Microsep (Pty) Ltd, Shimadzu South Africa (Pty) Ltd, Sartorius, and Multi Success Supplies (Pty) Ltd. The event’s vibrant atmosphere of innovation and collaboration left TTL further inspired and committed to scientific excellence, and eagerly looking forward to the next Analytical Lab Africa 2027.
Looking back, the third quarter of 2025 has been a journey filled with learning, collaboration, and inspiration. From the breathtaking landscapes of Limpopo to the lively streets of Prague, every experience has left TTL more connected, more inspired, and more determined to keep pushing boundaries in metabolomics research. These moments remind us that science is not only about discovery but also about community and shared passion. With this momentum, we step into the next quarter excited for what lies ahead.
Written by: Asanda Mavodze, Sinekamva Mnyamana, Lufuno Mabogo and Anela Keke.
Edited by: Akhona Myoli and Fidele Tugizimana