Meet a Biological Sciences Graduate Student: Toheeb Balogun

September 20, 2024

Toheeb Balogun

By Mario Aguilera

UC San Diego Laboratory: Professor Rommie Amaro

Undergraduate institution: Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria

Tell us about your area of research focus

My research focuses on elucidating the structural dynamics of viral glycoproteins and designing entry-level inhibitors. Viral glycoproteins are structural components found on the surface of enveloped viruses and play key roles in viral infection by facilitating binding, membrane fusion, replication and release. The glycosylation of these viral glycoproteins contributes to their survival, trafficking and ability to evade the host immune system. By integrating multiscale biophysical simulations and molecular modeling, I investigate the structure, function and dynamics of the coronavirus and Ebola virus glycoproteins. Additionally, I employ free energy methods, chemoinformatics and computer-aided drug design (CADD) techniques to identify, design and optimize potential drug candidates against these deadly viruses.

Why is this important?

Several viral pathogens — such as Ebola, HIV, influenza and coronaviruses — have caused significant infections, fatalities and global health crises. Therefore, uncovering the molecular determinants of viral infections is crucial for developing effective antivirals and vaccines for future pandemics. While structural biology tools have made significant strides in resolving near-atomic protein structures, they often fail to capture the complete dynamics of proteins, particularly unresolved biological components like glycans. Leveraging high-performance computing and biophysical simulations allows us to construct realistic molecular models, providing unprecedented insights into the mechanisms of viral infection.

How did you get interested in this area?

During my undergraduate studies, I took a pharmacology and metabolic pathways course, where I learned about disease pathogenesis and the relationship between protein structure and function. This sparked my interest in understanding disease mechanisms at a molecular and structural level. Having done research in CADD before graduate school, I was captivated by the cutting-edge translational research in the Amaro Lab, which focuses on the development and application of state-of-the-art computational and theoretical techniques to investigate the structure, function and dynamics of complex biological systems.

What does a typical day look like for you?

My day usually begins by checking the status of my simulations on supercomputers. I either check whether my job has started running or review completed jobs. A significant portion of my time is spent constructing large-scale biological systems and preparing them for simulation. Once my molecular models are up and running, I use the time to read scientific papers and stay updated on the latest trends in the field. I also spend considerable time debugging code and troubleshooting installations or new tools. At the end of the day, I recheck my submitted jobs on the supercomputer to ensure everything is running smoothly. To wind down, I often go to the gym or watch soccer and boxing highlights.

What do you enjoy most about being a graduate student?

The learning process and the community! There's immense joy and satisfaction in debugging code, troubleshooting new tools and learning new things. At times, things may not work as planned, but this also motivates me to keep pushing forward. When it does work, the sense of accomplishment is incredible. As an international student, the Amaro Lab feels like home. It’s an inclusive, supportive environment filled with a diverse group of people who are always willing to help. Dr. Amaro provides all the resources I need for my thesis project, creating an ideal platform for growth and learning. The Amaro Lab is truly a place where everyone is welcome to pursue science.

What advice do you have for someone starting out as a graduate student at UC San Diego?

Graduate school is a journey filled with ups and downs. There will be moments of great achievement and others that are more challenging. It’s important to go at your own pace and avoid comparing yourself to others. Find a method that keeps you productive and remember that it’s okay to take breaks to recharge. Build a supportive community around you and give yourself time to rest and unwind.

What is your favorite type of food?

My favorite foods are traditional Nigerian dishes like jollof rice and bean pudding.

What’s something most people don’t know about you?

I used to swim a lot when I was younger.