[LINDAU, GERMANY, SciDev.Net] Microbiologist Maria Andrea Laetitia Huët developed a love of nature as a child growing up on the island of Mauritius. Now she is using her curiosity for the natural world to find an innovative solution to a neglected tropical disease.
Using sugarcane bagasse — a fibrous by-product that is left after extracting juice from sugarcane — the young researcher is working on a hydrogel patch to treat cutaneous leishmaniasis, a devastating disease caused by the bites of sandflies.
According to the World Health Organization, leishmaniasis affects some of the world’s poorest people and is associated with malnutrition, population displacement, poor housing, and a weak immune system. Close to 1 million new cases occur worldwide each year.
Cutaneous leishmaniasis, the most common form, causes skin lesions, such as ulcers, on the body, which can leave life-long, often stigmatising, scars.
Huët, who was recognised by the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women In Science Young Talent programme last year, was one of more than 600 young scientists invited to participate in the 74th Lindau Nobel Laurate meetings in Lindau, Germany earlier this month.
She spoke to SciDev.Net there about her research journey.
When did you realise you wanted to be a scientist — what inspired you?
Growing up, I was a huge fan of the National Geographic Channel. Watching documentaries about nature, science, and human biology sparked a deep curiosity in me from a very young age. No one in my family pursued a career in the life sciences, so my interest was self-driven and nurtured by school experiences and supportive teachers who encouraged my scientific curiosity.
What led you to your research on leishmaniasis and what does it involve?
I completed my Bachelor of Science (Hons) in biotechnology at the University of Mauritius. I then pursued a Master of Science by Research at Monash University, Malaysia, where I worked on the Malaysian Microbiome Project, focusing on the gut microbiome and antifungal resistance.
My PhD research at the Centre for Biomedical and Biomaterials Research, University of Mauritius, focuses on addressing cutaneous leishmaniasis using sugarcane bagasse, an agricultural waste product. I am developing innovative and bioactive wound dressings that aim to expedite healing and reduce secondary infections.
This work bridges sustainability and healthcare, addressing critical gaps while aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals for health and well-being and climate action, and the WHO’s 2030 Roadmap for Neglected Tropical Diseases.
Where did the idea of using sugarcane waste come from?
Mauritius produces tonnes of sugarcane waste each year, and at the Centre for Biomedical and Biomaterials Research, where I work, we aim to upcycle agricultural waste for biomedical applications. The idea of using sugarcane waste to create biodegradable hydrogels for wound healing that could eliminate bacteria came from this drive to add value to locally available resources.
How does the hydrogel patch work?
Just like a Band-Aid. The hydrogel, made from sugarcane waste-derived biopolymers, acts like the healing “white gauze” part. It’s placed on a textile support (which can be exchanged), much like how gauze is held in place by a Band-Aid strip. The hydrogel provides a moist environment, helps to absorb wound exudates, and actively promotes healing. It’s loaded with natural bioactive compounds that have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, which can be especially useful for chronic or infected wounds, such as in cutaneous leishmaniasis.
The sugarcane waste is processed to extract natural polymers, which are then modified to form the hydrogel matrix. So, it’s both the raw material and the therapeutic agent, contributing to the patch’s biodegradability and healing properties.
Why did you decide to work on this project?
I decided to work on this project because leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease that is spreading rapidly [in some regions], partly due to the effects of global warming. It remains a major regional health issue in the African continent — spreading worldwide as well – yet it receives limited attention and resources. This aligns with the urgent call for action highlighted in the WHO’s roadmap for neglected tropical diseases, which emphasises the need for innovative solutions.
How soon do you estimate commercialisation, with a local company or another partner?
The estimated time for commercialisation depends on the outcomes of ongoing in vivo testing [testing on living organisms]. If the results are promising, we are hopeful that it could move toward commercialisation within the next few years. Our goal is to produce the tool locally in Mauritius, in partnership with a local company and other collaborators, with initial deployment across Africa.
Do you see yourself as a model for young women living in low- and middle-income countries considering a career in science? Do you have any advice for them?
I don’t see myself as a role model just yet, but I aspire to become one. I believe it’s important for young women, especially from the global South, to see others like them being successful in science.
My advice is to seek mentors, stay curious, and always believe that your unique perspective is your strength.
What did you learn from participating as a young scientist at the 74th Nobel Laurate Meeting, held in Lindau, Germany earlier this month?
The Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting was a transformative experience. Engaging with Nobel Laureates and young scientists from around the world broadened my perspective on global scientific collaboration. I was especially inspired by discussions around sustainability. It reminded me that science is also about responsibility, communication, and community.
This piece was produced by SciDev.Net’s Global desk.