Dr. Zandiswa Gulube

Zandiswa Gulube is a researcher in oral microbiology and infectious diseases, with a strong focus on pathogens affecting vulnerable populations in Southern Africa. Her work bridges clinical microbiology and ethnopharmacology, examining microbial diversity, virulence mechanisms, and host–pathogen interactions, particularly in the context of HIV-associated infections and oral health.

Her research explores the molecular epidemiology of Candida albicans and hepatitis B virus, alongside investigations into Streptococcus mutans and other oral pathogens. Through genotyping, phylogenetic analysis, and virulence profiling, she has advanced understanding of strain diversity, persistence, and microevolution, highlighting implications for drug resistance and disease progression.

A notable strength of her scholarship lies in evaluating medicinal plants such as Dodonaea viscosa, Punica granatum, Uvaria chamae, and Mezoneuron benthamianum for anti-biofilm and anti-virulence properties. By demonstrating their capacity to inhibit adherence, acid production, and gene expression linked to pathogenicity, her work supports the development of alternative or adjunctive therapies for oral infections.