Yasien Sayed

Professor Yasien Sayed is a faculty member at the University of the Witwatersrand, affiliated with the School of Molecular and Cell Biology. He holds a PhD from the same institution and is actively engaged in research in structural biology and molecular enzymology, particularly focusing on HIV-1 protease and related antiviral mechanisms.

• Position: Professor
• Institution: University of the Witwatersrand
• School: School of Molecular and Cell Biology
• Email: Yasien.Sayed@wits.ac.za
• ORCiD: 0000-0002-1781-2115

Education:

• BSc (Hons), University of the Witwatersrand
• PhD, University of the Witwatersrand

His research interests center on the structural and functional characterization of proteins, particularly HIV-1 protease subtype C, using techniques such as X-ray crystallography, isothermal titration calorimetry, fluorescence spectroscopy, and molecular dynamics simulations. He investigates enzyme kinetics, drug resistance mechanisms, and protein-ligand interactions. His work has expanded to include studies on SARS-CoV-2 proteins, including the main protease (Mpro) and spike protein. He also explores protein overexpression, purification, and biophysical characterization of enzymes such as glutathione transferases.

The analysis of his recent publications (2020–2025) reveals a consistent focus on HIV-1 protease dynamics, drug resistance in African subtypes, structural insights into antiviral inhibitors, and computational modeling of protein behavior. He frequently employs integrative approaches combining experimental and in silico methods. His work on hemoglobin from various species and small-molecule crystal structures indicates a broader interest in structural biochemistry and supramolecular chemistry.

Scientific Contributions:

• Over 50 peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals including Journal of Biological Chemistry, Biochemical Journal, Viruses, and Acta Crystallographica.
• Extensive research on HIV-1 subtype C, relevant to the Southern African epidemic.
• Contributions to understanding flap and hinge dynamics in HIV protease, crucial for inhibitor design.
• Structural studies on parasitic enzymes and host-pathogen interactions.

Professor Sayed has not listed any formal advisees, grants, or awards in the provided text, but his prolific publication record suggests active supervision of students and involvement in funded research. He has no indication of part-time status, retirement, or former staff designation, confirming his role as a full-time, active professor.