I am a PhD candidate based at the Natural Products Institute, University of the West Indies, Mona, currently pursuing a PhD in Biotechnology. I form part of a research team led by Professor Delgoda who is the Director of the Institute. My research currently involves assessing the impact of various plant extracts on the viability of breast and prostate cancer cell lines using standardized established assays. Extracts with the most potent and selective impact on these cancer cells have been identified and their mechanism of action determined. This is being done with a view to develop potential leads for anticancer drugs for the most prevalent types of cancers affecting Jamaicans and people around the world.

Previously, in an attempt to understand the role of medicinal plants currently in use by cancer patients in Jamaica, a quantitative survey was conducted at the Oncology and Urology Departments at the University Hospital of the West Indies. This survey provided Information on the prevalence of medicinal plant use by cancer patients along with other useful data on preparation details, usage and patient perceptions, among others. Soursop (Annona muricata), was found to be the most commonly used plant. Extracts of different parts of this plant were then prepared and tested for efficacy against breast and prostate cancer cell lines to assess its impact on cell viability. 

My interests centre mainly around the participation in various outreach activities. I am a member of the Mona Association of Postgraduate Students as well as the Graduate Student Special Envoy Programme.

Select Journal Publications

1. Foster, K., Oyenihi, O., Rademan, S., Erhabor, J., Matsabisa, M., Barker, J., ... & Delgoda, R. (2020). Selective cytotoxic and anti-metastatic activity in DU-145 prostate cancer cells induced by Annona muricata L. bark extract and phytochemical, annonacin. BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies, 20(1), 1-15.
2. Foster, K., Younger, N., Aiken, W., Brady-West, D., & Delgoda, R. (2017). Reliance on medicinal plant therapy among cancer patients in Jamaica. Cancer Causes & Control, 28(11), 1349-1356.