Dr Olaolu, who graduated with the first doctorate in human physiology at Nelson Mandela University on 15 April, already holds a doctorate and master's degree in veterinary medicine from Ahmadu Bello University, Nigeria.
His research findings suggested that the drug Iloprost, known to control inflammation in the body, such as those caused by Trypanosoma brucei (the parasite responsible for diseases like sleeping sickness), could be an effective treatment in protecting the brain.
The drug reduces the number of parasites present, improves brain function, and influences the genes that play a role in memory, learning, and protecting brain cells.
In addition, it also helps balance immune responses to prevent excessive inflammation.
The 33-year-old doctor, a researcher based in Vom, Jos, Plateau state in Nigeria, works at the country’s National Research Institute, where they combat infectious diseases in animals and also develop effective vaccines and therapeutic interventions to control and eliminate these.
Dr Olaolu’s human physiology doctoral study focused on how infections, can affect brain functions and particularly cognitive abilities; it explored the connection between the immune system and the brain, and how immune responses during infection can impact cognitive abilities, such as memory and learning.
This research holds promise for new treatments that could prevent memory loss or neurological challenges linked to trypanosome infection. It also opens the door for potential therapies for other brain-related conditions associated with immune system dysfunction, he said.
“My decision to study Physiology, despite my background in Veterinary Medicine, was driven by a deeper purpose. I have more than four years of hands-on experience working on Trypanosomiasis, a zoonotic disease that affects both animals and humans.
"Witnessing the extreme impact this disease has on human lives, often with limited access to effective treatment, sparked a strong desire in me to contribute more directly to human health solutions”, Dr Olaolu said.
In line with the One Health approach, which emphasises the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, he saw a clear need for professionals, like him, to bridge the gap between veterinary science and human medicine.
“Studying physiology allowed me to focus on the human biological aspects of the disease, particularly how Trypanosome infections affect the brain and immune system, and to explore potential therapeutic interventions”, he said.
Dr Olaolu chose to pursue his doctorate at Mandela University in South Africa because of the University's strong research environment and its commitment to addressing health challenges that affect both local and global communities.
He praised his outstanding supervisors Dr Duyilemi Chris Ajonijebu and Professors Hajierah Davids and Gill Dealtry, for their support and mentorship to expand his research and complete his PhD journey.
From left Prof Davids, Drs Olaolu and Ajonijebu, and Prof Dealtry.
“Through this work, I have contributed to the broader goal of safeguarding animal health, improving livestock productivity, and indirectly enhancing public health — especially in the context of zoonotic diseases that can affect both animals and humans,” Dr Olaolu said.
He spent two months altogether in Gqeberha at the University due to the inability to get the pathogen (necessary for the research) across borders (due to COVID-19 restrictions) and a delay in visa approval, so it was not only smooth sailing.
Looking ahead, Dr Olaolu is passionate about transitioning into academia, where he hopes to share his knowledge and practical experience with the next generation of scientists and as well continue research infectious diseases.
“I believe that mentoring and educating students is a powerful way to sustain progress in the field, inspire innovation, and build capacity for future research and development. My goal is to foster critical thinking and a strong scientific foundation in students, for them to become solution-driven professionals, who can address emerging global health challenges.
“One particularly interesting aspect of my PhD journey was the interdisciplinary nature of the research. Coming from a veterinary background, delving deeply into human physiology and neuroimmunology was both challenging and eye-opening. I was exposed to advanced molecular techniques, epigenetics, and the complexity of host-pathogen interactions from a new perspective”, he said.
Another enriching part was the opportunity to work under the guidance of passionate and experienced supervisors, whose mentorship not only shaped his scientific thinking but also encouraged him to ask deeper, translational questions that bridge animal and human health.
“Additionally, being part of an international academic environment at Mandela University expanded my worldview. I collaborated with researchers from diverse backgrounds and learned the value of global teamwork in addressing health challenges that know no borders.
"Beyond the lab, I also had the chance to present my work at conferences, engage in outreach programmes, and develop leadership and communication skills that will serve me in both academic and public health spheres.
"Altogether, my PhD journey was more than just research—it was a holistic growth experience both personally and professionally."