Dr. Brian Flepisi

Brian Flepisi is a South African researcher whose work spans neuro-oncology, neurodegeneration, HIV-associated complications, and pharmacological sciences. His research integrates cellular and molecular approaches with public health perspectives, with a strong focus on brain pathology and systemic comorbidities in vulnerable populations. He has contributed to both experimental and clinical-oriented scholarship, bridging laboratory findings with therapeutic and regulatory implications.

A central theme of his work examines how glioblastoma and breast cancer cells disrupt brain endothelial integrity and blood–brain barrier function, particularly under normoxic and hypoxic conditions. Through in vitro models, he has advanced understanding of mitochondrial dysfunction, tight junction modulation, and tumour–endothelial interactions, offering insights relevant to metastasis and tumour progression.

His publications also address HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders, chronic kidney disease in people living with HIV, and pharmacological management of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, he has explored artificial intelligence in drug development and regulatory science, reflecting a multidisciplinary strength in translational research, therapeutic strategy, and health systems relevance within the South African context.