Prof. Dr. Matlou Mokgotho | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award
Lecturer at Sefako Makgatho Health Science University | South Africa
Prof. Dr. Matlou Mokgotho is a distinguished biochemist and academic leader with over two decades of experience in higher education, research, and community development. Currently a Senior Lecturer at Tshwane University of Technology, he has previously served as Professor and Head of Department of Biochemistry at the University of Limpopo. His expertise spans molecular biology, proteomics, bioenergetics, enzymology, and mammalian cell cultures. Beyond academia, Dr. Mokgotho has actively contributed to community health awareness initiatives, youth leadership, and ethical oversight in research and professional bodies. His leadership, research excellence, and dedication to mentorship continue to inspire future scientists in South Africa.
Publication Profile
Orcid
Education
Prof. Dr. Matlou Mokgotho holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Biochemistry from the University of Limpopo, conferred. He earned his Master of Science in Biochemistry his Bachelor of Science Honours in Biochemistry both from the University of the North. He also completed a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Microbiology at the same institution. His academic foundation was laid at Seshigo High School, where he obtained his Senior Certificate. This strong educational background provided him with the knowledge and skills to excel in biochemical sciences and academic leadership.
Experience
Prof. Dr. Matlou Mokgotho career spans roles from tutor to senior lecturer, professor, and department head. He began lecturing in Biochemistry at the University of the North before joining the University of Limpopo, where he advanced to Professor and Head of Department. His teaching portfolio covers biochemistry, molecular biology, proteomics, cell culture, and bioenergetics. He also served as CEO of Milestevens Development and Properties, showcasing leadership in management. Currently, he is Senior Lecturer at Tshwane University of Technology and a module critical reader at UNISA. His responsibilities include teaching, research coordination, and academic mentorship.
Awards and Honors
Prof. Dr. Matlou Mokgotho has been recognized for his academic, community, and leadership contributions. He received certificates for AIDS Awareness campaigns and laboratory assistance during his early career, highlighting his dedication to education and health promotion. His leadership in youth and church organizations earned him certificates of moral leadership and community service, while his active role in HIV/AIDS awareness workshops reflected his commitment to social impact. As a council member of the South African Dental Technician Council, he contributed to professional ethics and governance. These accolades underscore his commitment to advancing science, leadership, and community development.
Research Focus
Prof. Dr. Matlou Mokgotho research focuses on biochemistry, molecular biology, and proteomics, with a special interest in bioenergetics, protein structure-function relationships, and mammalian cell cultures. His work bridges fundamental and applied science, exploring enzymology, molecular mechanisms, and the applications of cell cultures in medical research. He has also contributed to developing experimental methodologies and training students in proposal writing, research principles, and dissertation development. His commitment to advancing biochemistry is reflected in his integration of teaching, research, and community engagement, with a strong emphasis on preparing students for careers in molecular science and addressing health challenges through biotechnological approaches.
Publication Top Notes
Identification of Bioactive Compounds in Warburgia salutaris Leaf Extracts and Their Pro-Apoptotic Effects on MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cells
Evaluation of the Potential Hypoglycaemic Properties of Mimusops zeyheri Sond. and Aloe marlothii A.Berger, Two Plants Used by Traditional Healers in South Africa
Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate and type 2 diabetes
Phytochemical Screening and Characterization of Volatile Compounds from Three Medicinal Plants with Reported Anticancer Properties Using GC-MS
Glucose transporter 4 translocation and glucose uptake by selected traditional medicinal preparations
Examining Acetone Extracts of Toona cilliata, Seriphium plumosum and Schkuhria pinnata on Hela Cervical Cancer Cells: Anticancer Potential
The Effect of Lithium on Inflammation-Associated Genes in Lipopolysaccharide-Activated Raw 264.7 Macrophages
Potential Antiglycation and Hypoglycaemic Effects of Toona ciliata M. Roem. and Schkuhria pinnata Lam. Thell. Crude Extracts in Differentiated C2C12 Cells
Potential Hypoglycaemic and Antiobesity Effects of Senna italica Leaf Acetone Extract
Sensing Technologies for Detection of Acetone in Human Breath for Diabetes Diagnosis and Monitoring
Defatting of acetone leaf extract of Acacia karroo (Hayne) enhances its hypoglycaemic potential
Antioxidant, Antiglycation, and Hypoglycaemic Effect of Seriphium plumosum Crude Plant Extracts
Antibacterial and Anti HIV 1 Reverse Transcriptase Activity of Selected Medicinal Plants from Phalaborwa, South Africa
Conclusion
Prof. Dr. Matlou Mokgotho’s distinguished academic journey, dedication to teaching and mentorship, leadership roles, and consistent contributions to biochemistry research make him a highly suitable nominee for the Best Researcher Award. His blend of research expertise, educational leadership, and community engagement reflects the qualities of an outstanding researcher whose work impacts both science and society. With further expansion of international collaborations and translational research outputs, his profile will continue to grow, solidifying his place among leading researchers in his field.