Austria-Africa Research Collaboration on Exploring the Toxicological and Immunopharmacological Potential of Kenyan Khat (Catha edulis) for Enhancing Quality Livelihoods in Kenya

Cooperating countries: Kenya and Austria

Coordinating institution: Medical University of Graz, Julia Kargl Julia.kargl@medunigraz.at 

Partner institutions: Pwani University, Egerton University

Project duration: 

Abstract: 
This research project investigates the toxicological, immunopharmacological and anti-microbial properties of Catha edulis (khat), a plant widely consumed in Kenya. Although legally cultivated and regulated as an agricultural crop within Kenya, its international trade faces restrictions, prompting Kenyan farmers to shift focus toward domestic and East African markets. This has led to a significant increase in consumption, particularly among young people due to its affordability and availability. The surge in use has raised concerns among political, religious, and medical groups, with reports linking Khat consumption to addiction and suspected cases of cancers, although definitive epidemiological evidence remains lacking on cancers. Despite its socio-economic and cultural significance, khat's health impacts remain a critical concern. This project aims to provide a scientific assessment of Khat by investigating its bioactive components and their effects on cellular health and immune modulation. Advanced in vitro and in vivo models will be used to evaluate the plant's potential genotoxic, cytotoxic, and oxidative stress-inducing properties. Additionally, the study will explore its immunomodulatory effects, focusing on inflammation, cytokine production and immune cell viability and its bactericidal properties in vitro. Further, we will evaluate behavioral disturbances after long-term consumption in vivo.
Collaborating with Kenyan institutions such as Pwani University and Egerton University, as well as the Medical University of Graz in Austria, the project emphasizes capacity building, knowledge exchange, and cutting-edge research at the intersection of toxicology, immunology, microbiology, neuroscience and pharmacology. The findings are expected to shed light on the safety and therapeutic potential of Khat, supporting its informed use and contributing to regulatory decisions for its safe application in Kenya.