Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) lecturer Dr Mashudu Nemukula has earned his Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biochemistry at the university’s 2026 Spring Graduation Ceremony, marking a major milestone in his academic career and advancing research on diabetes and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
Dr Nemukula, a lecturer in Clinical Biochemistry and Healthcare Biotechnology in SMU’s Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, investigated the relationship between low-density lipoprotein (LDL) subclasses and the burden of atherosclerosis among black South African patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). His thesis was titled “LDL subclasses and atherosclerosis burden in black South African Type II diabetic patients at Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital”.
His research combined a systematic review and meta-analysis, a hospital-based cohort study, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based serum metabolomic and lipidomic profiling. The study sought to improve understanding of lipid abnormalities and the metabolic changes associated with diabetes, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular complications.
The findings highlighted the prevalence of lipid abnormalities among South Africans with hyperglycaemia and identified treatment non-adherence as an independent factor associated with elevated LDL cholesterol. The research also characterised a metabolic signature associated with T2DM among people of black South African ancestry, identifying changes in amino acid, energy and gut microbial metabolism that may inform future precision-medicine approaches.
“Achieving my PhD is more than an academic milestone; it is a testament to perseverance, faith, dedication, and God’s grace throughout my journey. As Philippians 4:13 reminds us, ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.’ This scripture reflects the strength and determination that carried me through the challenges and sacrifices of this journey. I hope this milestone inspires future scientists and contributes to meaningful research that improves healthcare in South Africa,” said Dr Nemukula
The study further examined disruptions in lipoprotein and LDL-cholesterol metabolism in relation to endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress, inflammation and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The study used aortic pulse wave velocity to assess vascular stiffness, providing additional insight into cardiovascular risk.
Dr Nemukula’s achievement builds on a career spanning more than a decade in higher education, laboratory demonstration, clinical research and academic administration. He has been a permanent lecturer at SMU since December 2021, where he coordinates undergraduate modules, teaches biochemistry and supervises or co-supervises Honours, master’s and Master of Medicine research projects.
He obtained his MSc in Biochemistry cum laude from SMU in 2019, following undergraduate studies in Biochemistry, Microbiology and Biochemistry-related disciplines at the University of Limpopo and the University of Venda. Between October 2024 and April 2025, he undertook an international research placement at the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology in New Delhi, India, focusing on NMR spectroscopy, metabolomics, and protein-DNA interaction techniques.
During his doctoral candidature, Dr Nemukula published four research articles, with a further manuscript under review, contributing to the growing body of knowledge on metabolic health and cardiovascular disease.
His achievement reflects SMU’s commitment to advancing scientific research, developing skilled health-sciences professionals and supporting evidence-based approaches to healthcare challenges. Through research, teaching, and postgraduate supervision, Dr Nemukula continues to contribute to the university’s academic mission and strengthen knowledge relevant to diabetes and cardiovascular health in South Africa.
By Tumelo Moila
