On September 20, 2024, Basic Medical Science section of the Academy had  an enlightening webinar titled “Contribution of Basic Medical Sciences to the Practice, Growth and Innovation in Medicine: Biochemistry as a Case Study.” Our distinguished speaker, Prof. S.E. Atawodi, a renowned professor of Biochemistry, delivered an insightful presentation that captivated attendees and sparked meaningful discussions.

Prof. Atawodi began by emphasizing the crucial role of Basic Medical Sciences as the cornerstone of medical education. He skillfully illustrated how this foundation has been instrumental in driving innovation across various aspects of healthcare, including diagnostics, treatment methods, preventive medicine, and medical research. The professor provided a compelling historical overview of Biochemistry, tracing its evolution and highlighting its increasingly significant relationship with the medical field.

Throughout his presentation, Prof. Atawodi demonstrated how biochemical research has led to breakthroughs in understanding disease mechanisms, developing targeted therapies, and enhancing diagnostic techniques. A highlight of the talk was the discussion of Nobel Prize winners in the field of Biochemistry. Prof. Atawodi showcased how these groundbreaking discoveries have directly impacted medical practice and our understanding of human health, underscoring the profound influence of biochemical research on medical progress.

The webinar also emphasized the importance of collaboration between different areas of science and medicine. Participants noted how the integration of various disciplines has been crucial for advancing medical knowledge and developing innovative treatments. The versatility of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology was particularly highlighted as a bridge between basic science and clinical applications.

Adding to the richness of the discussion, Prof. Farombi, another esteemed participant, contributed by further elaborating on the versatility of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology in advanced medical breakthroughs. This additional perspective reinforced the central theme of the webinar and provided attendees with a broader view of the field’s impact.

The event was extremely well-received by attendees, who found it both educational and inspiring. Bernice Igwe commented, “Very educative, thank you for the insight,” while Abayomi Okanlawon expressed gratitude, saying, “Thank you sir for reminding us the importance of Basic Medical Sciences to the practice of medicine.” Catherine Olufunke Falade summed up the sentiment of many when she described the lecture as “a masterpiece that reminds us all of the importance of collaboration in all arms of science and medicine.”

This webinar underscored the importance of continued investment and focus on Basic Medical Sciences. As we look to the future of healthcare, it’s clear that fields like Biochemistry will play a pivotal role in shaping medical innovations and improving patient outcomes. The event not only provided valuable knowledge but also inspired attendees to consider the broader implications of basic science research in medical practice. It served as a reminder of the critical need for ongoing education and cross-disciplinary collaboration in the medical field.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Prof. Atawodi for sharing his expertise, to all the participants for their engaging questions and comments, and to everyone who contributed to making this webinar a success. The enthusiasm and positive feedback from attendees reinforce the value of such educational initiatives in bridging the gap between basic sciences and clinical practice.

As we reflect on the insights gained from this webinar, we’re excited about the future of medical science and the potential for further groundbreaking discoveries. Stay tuned for announcements about our upcoming webinars in this series, where we’ll continue to explore other facets of Basic Medical Sciences and their impact on modern medicine.