Dr.Donath Damian

Dr.Donath Damian


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

3Years (2024-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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10 February 2025 in Cancer Reports
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
DDDr.Donath Damian
Dr.Donath Damian
Background: Viral infections are established contributors to oncogenesis, leading to significant public health challenges. This systematic review aims to synthesize current knowledge on the mechanisms of viral cellular transformation and their association with various cancers.Recent findings: Studies reveal key mechanisms of oncogenesis, including direct viral integration into the host genome, expression of viral oncogenes, and indirect pathways such as chronic inflammation and immune evasion. Notably, Human Papillomavirus (HPV) was linked predominantly to cervical and oropharyngeal cancers, while Epstein–Barr Virus (EBV) was associated with lymphomas. Hepatitis B and C viruses were linked to liver cancer, highlighting the diverse impacts of viral infections on oncogenic processes.Conclusions: This review underscores the complexity of viral interactions with host cells and their implications for cancer development. Findings suggest that targeted interventions, such as vaccination and antiviral therapies, may play a crucial role in reducing the incidence of virus‐related cancers. Further research is needed to explore novel therapeutic strategies and the role of co‐factors in viral oncogenesis.

1 May 2025 in Viral Immunology
Verified
Journal Article
Closed access
DDDr.Donath Damian
Dr.Donath Damian
Tick-borne viruses are an increasing global health concern due to their significant impact on humans and animals, as well as their expanding geographic distribution. Notable viruses in this group include the tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV), Heartland virus (HRTV), and Powassan virus (POWV). This review evaluates their geographic spread, clinical effects, diagnostic challenges, treatment options, and research gaps. These viruses are increasingly spreading due to climate change and shifting tick habitats. The TBEV is moving into new areas of Europe and Asia, while the CCHFV is advancing into the Balkans and Caucasus. The HRTV has become more common in the United States, and the POWV is emerging in new regions of North America. Symptoms can vary from mild fever to severe neurological and hemorrhagic conditions. Diagnostic difficulties stem from inconsistent test accuracy, and treatment options are scarce, with only a few vaccines available. Tick-borne viruses represent a significant and expanding health threat, given their diverse clinical outcomes and diagnostic difficulties. Developing more accurate and accessible diagnostic tools is critical for early identification and treatment. Additionally, creating effective vaccines will be essential to reducing the overall burden of these viruses. With the increasing spread of tick-borne viruses, enhanced surveillance, ongoing research efforts, and strategic public health interventions are necessary to effectively control their impact and prevent further outbreaks.

16 February 2026 in Immunity, Inflammation and Disease
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
DDDr.Donath Damian
Dr.Donath Damian
Background: Malignant tumors pose a serious threat to human health and survival, with profound economic consequences worldwide. Human leukocyte antigens (HLAs), encoded by the human major histocompatibility complex, represent one of the most polymorphic genetic systems and play a vital role in immune regulation. This review summarizes the structural and functional characteristics of HLA molecules, their polymorphism and expression in tumor tissues, their involvement in tumor progression and immune responses, and their emerging applications in tumor immunotherapy. Methods: A thorough literature review was conducted focusing on HLA molecules, their genetic variability in tumor tissues, and their impact on tumor immunity and cellular proliferation. The potential clinical utility of targeting HLA molecules in tumor immunotherapy was also evaluated. Results: HLA polymorphisms and expression patterns have been closely associated with tumor initiation, progression, and immune modulation. These molecules influence tumor cell growth and regulate antitumor immune responses, either enhancing or suppressing immunity. HLA molecules are therefore critical in shaping the immune system's capacity to detect and eliminate cancer cells. Conclusion: This review underscores the pivotal role of HLA molecules in cancer immunology. A deeper understanding of HLA‐tumor interactions offers promising avenues for the development of HLA‐based immunotherapies, potentially improving clinical outcomes in cancer treatment.

11 February 2026 in Health Science Reports
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
DDDr.Donath Damian
Dr.Donath Damian
Background: Mosquito‐borne viruses represent a significant public health concern globally, with rising incidence rates leading to increased morbidity and mortality. This review aims to synthesize current knowledge regarding mosquito‐borne viruses, focusing on their geographic distribution, clinical impact, diagnostic challenges, treatment options, and existing research gaps. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple electronic databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library. Studies published from January 2000 to the present were included, focusing on peer‐reviewed articles related to mosquito‐borne viruses. Data extraction and synthesis followed a structured methodology, assessing both the quality of included studies and the themes relevant to mosquito‐borne viruses. Results: The review revealed significant geographic expansion of mosquito‐borne viruses, facilitated by climate change and urbanization, affecting regions previously considered low risk. Clinical manifestations varied widely, with vulnerable populations, such as children and the elderly, being at higher risk for severe outcomes. Diagnostic methods, while improving, faced limitations in sensitivity and specificity. Treatment primarily focused on symptomatic relief, with limited antiviral options currently available. Notable gaps in research were identified, particularly in the development of effective vaccines and rapid diagnostic tools. Conclusions: The findings underscore the urgent need for integrated public health strategies to combat mosquito‐borne viruses. Enhancing surveillance systems, improving diagnostic capabilities, expanding treatment options, and fostering vaccine development are critical steps. Addressing the identified research gaps will help mitigate the impacts of mosquito‐borne viruses on global health.

1 January 2025 in Journal of Diabetes Research
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
JMJustine Mlonga
Justine Mlonga
DDDr.Donath Damian
Dr.Donath Damian
Introduction: Type 2 diabetes mellitus poses global health challenges due to insulin resistance and hyperglycaemia. Understanding demographic characteristics and lipid profiles among diabetic patients is crucial for effective management and risk reduction. This study analyzes demographic distribution, gender representation, and lipid profile variations among Type 2 diabetes patients at the Mbeya Zonal Referral Hospital, aiming at informing tailored interventions to improve outcomes and mitigate cardiovascular risks associated with dyslipidemia. Methods: This retrospective study analyzed data from 311 Type 2 diabetes patients at the Mbeya Zonal Referral Hospital. Demographic data including age and gender were recorded, and lipid profiles (triglycerides, high‐density lipoprotein, and low‐density lipoprotein) were assessed using standard clinical measurements. Statistical analyses determined frequency distributions of age groups, gender proportions, and lipid profile categories. Associations between lipid profiles and demographic factors were also examined. Results: The study cohort predominantly consisted of patients aged 60–69 years (35.05%), with females slightly outnumbering males (54.02% vs. 45.98%). Triglyceride levels ≥ 150 mg/dL were observed in 43% of patients, primarily in older age groups. While 72% of patients had high − density lipoprotein levels ≥ 35 mg/dL, this percentage declined with age. Low − density lipoprotein levels ≥ 130 mg/dL were prevalent in 41.77% of patients, indicating a notable proportion with elevated low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol. Higher levels of high‐density lipoprotein were associated with better glycemic control, as indicated by lower glycated hemoglobin levels (< 6.5%), although the relationship between high‐density lipoprotein and cardiovascular outcomes remains unclear. Conclusion: This study reveals significant demographic and lipid profile variations among Type 2 diabetes patients at the Mbeya Zonal Referral Hospital, influenced by aging. Tailored management strategies considering age‐ and gender‐specific trends in lipid profiles could optimize glycemic control and reduce cardiovascular risks associated with Type 2 diabetes, thereby enhancing overall patient outcomes and quality of life.

18 December 2025 in Viral Immunology
Verified
Journal Article
Closed access
DDDr.Donath Damian
Dr.Donath Damian
The rapid evolution of viral pathogens presents significant challenges for global health, as traditional methods for virus detection often fail to identify novel or genetically diverse viruses. The emergence and reemergence of viral pathogens necessitate more advanced and inclusive diagnostic approaches. This review aims to explore the role of metagenomics in overcoming the limitations of traditional viral detection methods and to assess its impact on the discovery, characterization, and surveillance of viral pathogens. A comprehensive review of recent studies employing metagenomic approaches to viral detection was conducted. High-throughput sequencing technologies and bioinformatics tools were highlighted as key components in enabling broad-spectrum viral identification and characterization. Metagenomic approaches have successfully identified novel pathogens, including new arboviruses and reemerging strains of known viruses. These techniques provide a more complete understanding of viral diversity and dynamics, surpassing the limitations of targeted assays and culturing methods. Key findings emphasize the capability of metagenomics to detect viruses previously undetected by conventional methods, improving the scope of surveillance. Metagenomics offers transformative advantages for viral surveillance and outbreak management. It enhances early detection, allows for better-informed responses to viral threats, and contributes to more effective strategies for managing emerging and reemerging viral pathogens. Integration of metagenomic techniques into public health practices is crucial for combating the evolving landscape of viral diseases.