Francis Yoshimoto, Assistant Professor at the University of Texas, San Antonio, got recognized and cited twice by WHO for his work on COVID-19.
Francis Yoshimoto teaches chemistry at UTSA and got published in The Protein Journal titled “The Proteins of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus‑2 (SARS-CoV‑2 or n‑COV19), the Cause of COVID‑19.”
This is a proud moment for the University, as their professor will now play a major role in the development of vaccines and understanding this virus more clearly.
Details About The Research
The plan of action professor Francis applied was to analyze and compare various protein sequences between SARS CoV-1 and SARS CoV-2., the virus strain which caused a SARS outbreak in 2003, to the novel coronavirus.
The research dives deep into, the obvious similarities between both of them. For instance, it states that the genome of SARS CoV-2 is similar to the genome of the coronavirus that caused the SARS epidemic in 2003.
Drawing results from the comparison will give researchers a clear picture of what we’re dealing with.
According to the professor, understanding the proteins present in these viruses will enable a more rational approach to understand its mysterious nature. At the same time, it will be helpful in designing a more effective antiviral drug.
Initially, the research received prominent recognition in the “Protein Journal”. The Protein Journal is considered one of the most sought-after documents when it comes to understanding the coronavirus.
Later, Yoshimoto’s covid research earned him two citations by the World Health Organization. It is one of the highest levels of respect and recognition, a scientist can receive for his work.
“I wasn’t expecting to be cited by the WHO, and I am glad that my research was able to make a positive impact,” Yoshimoto said.
The Motivation Behind The Research
Last year, when the Coronavirus pandemic took over the world, people lost motivation. Indeed, it was a difficult time. But Francis Yoshimoto viewed this as an opportunity to use his free time and energy in global service.
Although, he was well-aware of his specialties which made him inclined towards SARS-CoV-2 research.
“Little was known about SARS-CoV-2 at the time, and I felt compelled to making a useful tool to aid in global research efforts,” Yoshimoto said. “I used biochemical research databases and software to compile and analyze what was currently known about similar viruses.”
His passion for helping the world through his skills is very inspirational. To this day, Professor Francis Yoshimoto is working and involved in the research and will continue to do so.
“I did not feel like I wanted to go for, oh I want to get more citations, I was more like, this is what is lacking, we don’t understand this about the virus, someone needs to do something to kind of organize this information. I continue to do coronavirus research as long as we still need to do this in the world.”
The world is in need of people like Francis Yoshimoto, who works day and night for the betterment of the global community. It should be noted that, whenever we’ll witness a pandemic-free world, Professor Francis will be remembered for his contributions.
