Name: Dr Brandon Mong
Cohort: BM111
Current Role: Postdoctoral Fellow, Biodiversity Research Center (BRC), Academia Sinica
Location: Taiwan
From IMU Graduate to Frontier Researcher in Microbial Neurosteroids
Dr Brandon Mong has carved a unique path in biomedical research, delving deep into the fascinating world of gut microbes and their far-reaching effects on human health. What began with a curiosity about parasitic oocytes during her undergraduate days evolved into a groundbreaking discovery—certain gut bacteria can produce neurosteroids like allopregnanolone, previously thought to be exclusive to eukaryotic synthesis. Her pursuit of knowledge has taken her from IMU to the University of Malaya, and eventually to Academia Sinica in Taiwan, where she continues to contribute to pioneering microbiome research.
Journey at IMU
It was during his Biomedical Science program at IMU that his interest in life sciences took root. One memorable module on biodiversity and a fascination with parasitology sparked his academic curiosity. IMU’s Problem-Based Learning (PBL) approach honed his critical thinking and analytical skills. He fondly recalls a PBL discussion on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), which indirectly led to her current research on how gut microbes may influence fertility through hormonal pathways—an intriguing full-circle moment.
Achievements Post-IMU
- Groundbreaking Microbiome Discovery: His most notable research achievement is the discovery that Alistipes putredinis, a single gut bacterial species, is capable of producing four distinct neurosteroids, including allopregnanolone—a neuroactive steroid recently approved by the FDA and valued at approximately RM75,000 per gram. This bacterial production, confirmed through advanced culturomics and mass spectrometry, challenges existing understanding and opens new therapeutic possibilities for neurological and reproductive health.
- Publication and Innovation: His findings, currently under review in Microbiome journal, are not just academically significant but also possess real-world implications. They redefine what we know about bacterial capabilities and human-microbe interactions.
- A Resilient Scientist: Despite facing failed experiments, scientific skepticism, and moments of self-doubt, he has remained steadfast through grit, joy in discovery, consistent self-care, and strong support from family and friends.
Impact on Society
Dr Brandon’s contributions align with IMU’s mission to develop healthcare professionals who create meaningful change. By combining biomedical knowledge with biodiversity and bioinformatics, Dr Brandon is pushing the boundaries of microbial research, offering fresh insights into health, disease, and the power of microbes.
Alumni Giving Back
In July 2024, Dr Brandon returned to IMU as part of a mini symposium alongside his supervisor, Dr. Yin-Ru Chiang. Presenting their latest findings, the visit not only reignited old connections but also forged new collaborations with IMU researchers—an inspiring example of how alumni can enrich the university’s research community.
Quote from Dr Brandon Mong
“Novel discovery fuels me. When my bioinformatics predictions are confirmed by wet lab experiments, it feels like releasing a hit song. It’s my art—something I leave behind for the world.”
This story reflects how IMU alumni are not only shaping the future of science but are also building a bridge between curiosity, innovation, and societal progress. Through his work, Dr Brandon Mong embodies the university’s vision of lifelong learning, impact, and excellence.