How Mujidat Shittu’s Early Research Sparked a Journey into Cancer Drug Discovery

By Tosin Clegg

In the laboratories of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), a young scientist, Mujidat Titilola Shittu, began charting her course toward groundbreaking discoveries in cancer biology and drug design. Her curiosity for molecular interactions and her dedication to solving medical problems through natural products quickly set her apart as a promising researcher in biochemistry.

During her studies at FUNAAB, Shittu led a major project titled “In silico studies of the phyto constituent of Azadirachta indica against AKT, in vivo gene expression validation in hepatocellular carcinoma induced Wistar rats.” Her focus was on how plant derived compounds could inhibit protein kinase B (Akt), a critical enzyme involved in liver cancer progression.

Through a combination of computational and laboratory experiments, she explored the therapeutic potential of Azadirachta indica (commonly known as neem). Her research revealed that terpenoids extracted from the plant could serve as potent inhibitors of Akt, reducing cancer cell proliferation in animal models. The study gave her recognition and strengthened her belief in combining biochemistry with computational approaches for meaningful scientific breakthroughs.

Building on this foundation, Mujidat joined a team of researchers at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, to investigate the anticancer properties of Cannabis sativa in hepatocellular carcinoma models. The project, titled “Cannabis sativa demonstrates anti hepatocellular carcinoma potentials in animal model: in silico and in vivo studies of the involvement of Akt,” offered new insight into how cannabinoids such as Δ9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol could regulate cancer related genes through the Akt signaling pathway.

Her contribution to the study was significant. She helped establish the procedures for extracting and concentrating phytoconstituents from Cannabis sativa using rotary evaporation, and conducted molecular docking to identify bioactive compounds with strong affinity for the Akt 2 catalytic domain. Her ability to combine computational modeling with precise lab work made her a key member of the research team.

Mujidat also conducted RT qPCR assays to analyze pro and anti apoptotic gene expressions in treated Wistar rats. Her data showed that C. sativa extract downregulated oncogenic markers such as Akt, VEGF, and COX 2, while upregulating tumor suppressor genes including p53 and p21. These results demonstrated that Cannabis sativa could inhibit cancer progression through molecular regulation of Akt signaling.

Her growing interest in in silico modeling and molecular docking deepened her understanding of how small molecules interact with target proteins. Mujidat became proficient in computational tools like PyMOL, AutoDock Vina, and Molecular Operating Environment (MOE), which she used to predict and visualize molecular interactions.

While many at her level were still developing basic laboratory skills, Mujidat was already blending computational simulations with experimental validations. This unique ability placed her at the crossroads of chemistry, biology, and pharmacology, reflecting her vision for integrating technology into natural product research and drug discovery.

Her mentors often described her as “a detail oriented researcher who understands both the science and the story behind the data.” Her precision and innovative approach earned her respect among peers and positioned her for advanced research opportunities in biomedical science.

Beyond her scientific skill, what stood out most about Mujidat was her passion for applying research to real health challenges. Her studies on Azadirachta indica and Cannabis sativa were not just academic exercises; they reflected her deep conviction that nature holds the key to developing safer and more effective cancer therapies.

After these projects, her curiosity expanded into enzymology, molecular signaling, and assay development. She began exploring the roles of small molecules and enzymes in metabolic and disease processes, setting the stage for her future in advanced biochemical research.

Her training at the Institute of Public Analysts of Nigeria (IPAN) further refined her technical and analytical abilities. There, she learned the importance of precision and ethical standards while analyzing food, drug, and environmental samples—skills that continue to define her work today.