Posted on May 06, 2021
100: A Publication Milestone by UPCM MD-PhD Trainees
Raniv D. Rojo (MD-PhD candidate)
A goal of every researcher is to contribute to scientific knowledge. There are few indicators of this accomplishment more upfront that the publication of a peer-reviewed scientific paper. It has been more than eleven years since the first students were admitted into the dual MD-PhD in Molecular Medicine program of the UP College of Medicine. The fruits of this long endeavor are starting to manifest. As of April 2021, a significant milestone has been reached with publication of the 100th peer-reviewed scientific paper co-authored by trainees and graduates of the program.
The country’s pioneering 8-year MD-PhD program aims to train aspiring physician-scientists for careers dedicated to the advancement of health through biomedical research. In addition to completing their medical courses, trainees take graduate courses including a variety of research engagements including a special research project and concluding with a PhD dissertation. Research output from these along with other independent initiatives have amassed a collection of articles published in local journals such Acta Medica Philippina and the Philippine Journal of Health Research and Development (PJHRD) as well as in international publications such as the American Journal of Physiology: Endocrinology and Metabolism and Scientific Reports.
The maiden article was published in 2014 by Dr. John Carlo B. Reyes et al. featuring their work on developing a novel molecular assay for the detection of Trichomonas vaginalis, the causative agent of trichomoniasis. From 2014 to 2017, successive articles have featured investigations on a variety of infectious diseases such as leptospirosis and schistosomiasis as well the therapeutic potential of natural products like taua-taua (Euphorbia hirta) and Philippine rice wine (tapuy).
Research articles exploring the genetics of diseases among Filipinos followed late in 2017 starting with the publication of unique polymorphisms in idiopathic neonatal hepatitis by the group of Dr. Fresthel Monica M. Climacosa and in extrahepatic biliary atresia by the group of Dr. Florence Giannina F. San Juan and Dr. Annavi Marie G. Villanueva.
Over the years, the types of research have diversified to include the in vitro and in silico molecular characterization of physiologic and pathologic phenomenon, epidemiologic and environmental surveillance employing molecular methods, as well as preclinical therapeutic investigations in animal models and human samples. Some trainees have gone on to explore interfaces with other fields of science such chemistry and engineering through nanomedicine and organ-on-chip technologies. Work on nanomaterial scaffolds for imaging and drug delivery has allowed Joy Vanessa D. Perez to publish in cross-field journals such as Medical Physics and Materialia.
MD-PhD trainees have not limited themselves to molecular medicine research. Increased interface with clinical mentors has also allowed more engagement in clinical research. Aedrian A. Abrilla has participated in evaluating the prevalence of urolithiasis among patients with gout in the Philippine General Hospital. Meanwhile, Ian Kim B. Tabios has authored papers featuring unique facets of family medicine practice in the Philippines. Meanwhile, some have to continue to work on passion projects. In addition to his prolific scientific output in preclinical gynecology research, Ourlad Alzeus G. Tantengco has participated in several works in ethnobotany particularly among Ayta communities.
The number of published scientific articles has increased steadily peaking in year 2020 while in the middle the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 33 articles was published including 5 papers related to COVID-19. Promisingly, after 4 months into the present year, 22 scientific articles have already been authored by MD-PhD trainees and recent graduates for the year 2022.
The MD-PhD program is supported by the Department of Science and Technology through the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development. This milestone is a testament to the willingness of the Filipino to engage in scientific endeavor in an environment that provides financial and infrastructure support, collegial encouragement, and mentorship. As more trainees enter the research phases of their training and as more collaborations are formed with local scientists, clinicians, as well as international partners, the diversity of research engagement and publication output can only expected to increase.