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Kipkemboi Micah LAGAT,

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Staff Information
PERSONAL DETAILS
Designation
Tutorial Fellow, Biochemistry
Department
Pre-Clinicals
Address
lagatmicah@kabarak.ac.ke
SUMMARY

Micah Lagat is an exceptional researcher and educator in the field of biochemistry, driven by an insatiable curiosity to unravel the mysteries of the molecular world. With a particular focus on the interactions and diversity of aflatoxigenic and non-aflatoxigenic Aspergillus species, Micah's groundbreaking contributions have revolutionized our understanding of these fungal organisms and their impact on human health.

Micah embarked on his academic journey in 2012 when he enrolled at Egerton University, Kenya, for his Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry. Fuelled by an unwavering passion for scientific exploration, he immersed himself in the study of biochemistry and molecular biology, rapidly emerging as a standout student. In 2015, Micah graduated, armed with a solid foundation in the fundamental principles of his field.

Determined to venture further into the depths of biochemistry, Micah pursued a Master's degree at Egerton University under the esteemed guidance of Prof. Meshack A. Obonyo. His master's thesis, titled "Diversity and Interactions between Aflatoxigenic and Non-Aflatoxigenic Aspergillus Species from Makueni County in Kenya," unleashed a wave of transformative discoveries. By untangling the intricate relationships and variations among Aspergillus species prevalent in the region, Micah shed light on the modulation of aflatoxin production and the enigmatic disparities observed when employing different techniques to determine aflatoxigenicity.

Micah's exceptional research findings led to the publication of several articles in renowned scientific journals even at the Masters level. Notable publications from his Masters research include:

  1. "Development of an ELISA-based method for testing aflatoxigenicity and aflatoxigenic variability among Aspergillus species in culture." This article presented a groundbreaking approach to assess the aflatoxin-producing capabilities of different Aspergillus species using an ELISA-based method.
  2. "Modulation of Aflatoxin Production by Interaction of Aspergillus Species from Eastern Kenya." This publication highlighted the influence of species interactions on aflatoxin production, unveiling a complex interplay between Aspergillus species prevalent in the Eastern Kenya region.
  3. "Genetic and chemical methods of ascertaining aflatoxigenicity give discordant results: A Case of Aspergillus species from Eastern Kenya." This paper explored the discrepancies observed when employing various genetic and chemical techniques to determine the aflatoxigenicity of Aspergillus species.

Inspired by his Masters research success, Micah's journey continued with an exciting venture into malaria research. His outstanding potential was recognized, leading to the award of a $2,000 grant by Kabarak University. This grant propelled him into the captivating realm of malaria investigation, where he explored the "Genetic Diversity of MSP1 and MSP2 Antigens and Associated Multiplicity of Infections (MOIs) among Symptomatic Individuals in Western Kenya." The culmination of this endeavor was the publication of a groundbreaking paper titled "Antimalarial Usage and Associated Symptoms Among Malaria Patients Seeking Treatment at Makongeni Health Centre, Homa Bay County, Kenya."

Micah Lagat's dynamic research portfolio exemplifies his unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge. His multidisciplinary approach, combining the realms of biochemistry and medical fields such as malaria research, inspires awe and admiration among peers and students alike. As an educator, Micah ignites a spark in the hearts of aspiring scientists, nurturing their thirst for knowledge and encouraging them to embark on their own remarkable journeys.

Micah's passion for scientific exploration knows no bounds, and his dedication to teaching and mentoring is an embodiment of his profound belief in the transformative power of education. Through his tireless efforts, Micah has cemented his position as a respected figure in the scientific community, shaping the future of biochemistry and healthcare.

Google Scholar
https://scholar.google.de/citations?hl=en&user=d8rZkVwAAAAJ
ResearchGate
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Micah-Lagat-2
FIELDS OF SPECIALIZATION
  • Molecular Interactions: Investigating the intricate interactions between biomolecules and their functional implications in cellular processes.
  • Biochemical Pathways: Exploring the intricate networks of metabolic pathways and their regulation, with a focus on understanding their role in health and disease.
  • Fungal Ecology: Studying the diversity and interactions of fungal species in different ecological contexts, particularly focusing on their impact on human health and food safety.
  • Aflatoxin Research: Investigating the production, variability, and modulation of aflatoxins by Aspergillus species, with the aim of developing effective prevention and control strategies.
  • Diagnostic Methods: Developing and optimizing diagnostic techniques, such as ELISA-based assays, to accurately assess aflatoxin production and aflatoxigenicity in Aspergillus cultures.
  • Genetic Analysis: Utilizing genetic methods to understand the genetic variability and relationships between different Aspergillus species, enabling a deeper understanding of their potential implications.
  • Food Safety: Contributing to the field of food safety by exploring the presence and impact of mycotoxins, such as aflatoxins, in food and agricultural commodities, and proposing mitigation strategies.
  • Scientific Communication: Sharing research findings through publications and presentations to disseminate knowledge and contribute to the scientific community.
  • Teaching and Mentoring: Engaging in teaching and mentoring activities to inspire and educate the next generation of biochemists, fostering a passion for scientific exploration and research.
  • Collaborative Research: Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to address complex scientific questions and develop innovative solutions to challenges in biochemistry and related fields.
WORK EXPERIENCE

May 2022- to date: School of Pharmacy, Kabarak University, Tutorial Fellow, Biochemistry

September 2019- May 2022: School of Pharmacy, Kabarak University, Technologist and Part-Time Lecturer

May 2018- Jan 2019: Biotechnology Laboratory, Confucius Institute (Nanjing Agricultural University, China) in collaboration with Egerton University

Role: Graduate Research Student

Mentors:

  1. Dr. B. Ondigo, Ph. D
  2. Prof. M. A. Obonyo, Ph. D
  3. Dr. H. M. Makonde, Ph. D

Research Titles: Mitigation of Aflatoxin Contamination in the Food Chain through Genetic Assessment of Putative Biological Agents Associated with Aspergillus species

Jan 2017- Sept 2018: Egerton University

Role: Graduate Research Student

Mentors:

  1. Prof. M. A. Obonyo, Ph. D
  2. Dr. H. M. Makonde, Ph. D
  3. Dr. Faith Toroitich, Ph. D

Project Title: Aflatoxin Management and Control in Kenya (Funded by Grand Challenges Canada)

LIST OF PUBLICATIONS

Lagat, M., Suge, T., & Kagia, R. (2023). Antimalarial Usage and Associated Symptoms Among Malaria Patients Seeking Treatment at Makongeni Health Centre, Homa Bay County, Kenya. African Journal of Medical Biosciences, 1(1).

Lagat, M. K., Toroitich, F. J., Makonde, H. M., & Obonyo, M. A. (2021). Genetic and chemical methods of ascertaining aflatoxigenicity give discordant results: A Case of Aspergillus species from Eastern Kenya.

Lagat, M. K., Toroitich, F. J., Obonyo, A., & Makonde, H. (2019). Modulation of Aflatoxin Production by Interaction of Aspergillus Species from Eastern Kenya. Journal of Environmental Science, Toxicology and Food Technology.

Lagat, M. K., Toroitich, F. J., & Obonyo, M. A. (2020). Development of an ELISA-based method for testing aflatoxigenicity and aflatoxigenic variability among Aspergillus species in culture. Scientific African, 7, e00266.

Murithi, M. K., Ogeto, T. K., Walekhwa, M. N., Njunge, R. K., Lagat, M. K., & Malago, Z. L. (2020). Oral contraceptives and intrauterine devices as risk factors for breast and cervical cancers: a systematic review. International Journal of Research in Medical Sciences, 8(6), 1.

TEACHING AREAS
  • Biochemical Principles: Comprehensive coverage of the fundamental principles of biochemistry, including biomolecules, enzyme kinetics, metabolism, and molecular interactions.
  • Biochemical Techniques: Proficient instruction on laboratory techniques commonly used in biochemistry research, such as protein purification, chromatography, spectroscopy, and molecular biology methods.
  • Metabolic Biochemistry: In-depth exploration of metabolic pathways, energy production, and regulation, with a focus on their relevance to human health and disease.
  • Protein Structure and Function: Thorough understanding of protein structure, folding, and dynamics, along with their functional roles in cellular processes and disease mechanisms.
  • Enzymology: Expertise in the study of enzymes, their catalytic mechanisms, kinetics, and regulation, providing insights into their significance in biochemical pathways.
  • Molecular Genetics: Proficient instruction on the molecular basis of genetics, gene expression, DNA replication, transcription, translation, and genetic engineering techniques.
  • Cellular Signaling: Detailed exploration of intracellular communication mechanisms, signal transduction pathways, and their implications in cellular processes and diseases.
  • Bioinformatics: Thorough knowledge of computational tools and databases used in bioinformatics, including sequence analysis, protein structure prediction, and genomic data mining.
  • Medical Biochemistry: Application of biochemical principles and techniques in understanding the molecular basis of diseases, diagnostic biomarkers, and therapeutic interventions.
  • Structural Biology: Comprehensive coverage of protein and nucleic acid structures, molecular modeling, X-ray crystallography, and other structural determination methods.
  • Medical Microbiology: Thorough understanding of microbial pathogens, their identification, and their role in infectious diseases.
  • Biomedical Research Methods: Instruction on experimental design, data analysis, and research methodologies relevant to the medical field.

Our Moral Code

As members of Kabarak University family, we purpose at all times and in all places, to set apart in one’s heart, Jesus as Lord. (1 Peter 3:15)