Humboldt Junior Researcher from Higher Teacher Training College, University of Yaoundé I, Cameroon
Dr. Bel Youssouf G. Mountessou is a distinguished Cameroonian chemist specializing in organic and theoretical chemistry, with a strong focus on natural product research. His academic journey is marked by a PhD in Organic Chemistry (2020) and a Master’s in Physical and Theoretical Chemistry (2022) from the University of Yaoundé I. Professionally, he has held various academic and research positions, including part-time lectureships and postdoctoral fellowships at renowned institutions such as the HEJ Research Institute of Chemistry in Pakistan and the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research in Germany. Dr. Mountessou’s research interests encompass the isolation and characterization of biologically active natural compounds, particularly from fungi, and the application of computational tools to study their antimicrobial and cytotoxic properties. His contributions to the field are evidenced by numerous publications in reputable journals and active participation in international conferences and workshops. Recognized for his scientific excellence, he has received accolades such as the Best Researcher Award in Bioinorganic Chemistry. Dr. Mountessou’s dedication to advancing chemical sciences and his commitment to education and research make him a prominent figure in his field.
Professional Profile
Education
Dr. Mountessou’s educational background is rooted in the University of Yaoundé I, Cameroon, where he has achieved multiple degrees in chemistry. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry in 2011, followed by a Master’s degree in Organic Chemistry in 2013. Demonstrating a commitment to furthering his expertise, he obtained a PhD in Organic Chemistry in 2020. His academic pursuits continued with a Master’s degree in Physical and Theoretical Chemistry in 2022. This comprehensive educational foundation has equipped him with a robust understanding of chemical principles, both in theory and application, laying the groundwork for his subsequent research endeavors.
Professional Experience
Dr. Mountessou’s professional career encompasses a blend of academic teaching and research roles. Since 2018, he has served as a part-time lecturer at the Higher Institute of Chemistry and Management and the Higher Teacher Training College in Yaoundé, Cameroon. His research experience includes postdoctoral fellowships at the HEJ Research Institute of Chemistry in Pakistan (2023–2024) and the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research in Germany (2021). Additionally, he has been actively involved with the Humboldt Research Hub-CECANAPROF at the University of Yaoundé I, contributing as a technical assistant and trainer. These roles have allowed him to engage in cutting-edge research while mentoring students and collaborating with international scientists.
Research Interests
Dr. Mountessou’s research interests are centered on the exploration of natural products, particularly those derived from fungi. He focuses on the isolation and characterization of biologically active compounds with potential antimicrobial and cytotoxic properties. His work integrates theoretical chemistry approaches, including quantum chemical modeling and spectroscopy, to understand the chemical reactivity and biological activity of these compounds. By combining experimental and computational methods, he aims to discover novel compounds that could contribute to the development of new therapeutic agents. His research is instrumental in addressing global health challenges through the discovery of natural bioactive molecules.
Research Skills
Dr. Mountessou possesses a diverse set of research skills that encompass both laboratory techniques and computational tools. His laboratory expertise includes the collection and identification of fungal strains, isolation and purification of natural products, and the use of spectroscopic methods for structural elucidation. On the computational front, he is proficient in molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and quantum chemical calculations, utilizing software such as Gaussian and GaussView. His ability to integrate these skills allows for a comprehensive approach to studying the chemical and biological properties of natural compounds, facilitating the identification of potential drug candidates.
Awards and Honors
Dr. Mountessou’s contributions to the field of chemistry have been recognized through various awards and honors. Notably, he received the Best Researcher Award in Bioinorganic Chemistry, acknowledging his innovative work in natural product research. He is a member of esteemed professional organizations, including the Royal Society of Chemistry and the Society for Medicinal Plant and Natural Product Research. His involvement with the Humboldt Research Hub-CECANAPROF and collaboration with the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research further highlight his commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and fostering international research partnerships.
Conclusion
Dr. Bel Youssouf G. Mountessou exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated and innovative researcher in the field of chemistry. His extensive educational background, coupled with a robust professional experience, underscores his commitment to scientific excellence. His research, which bridges experimental and computational chemistry, contributes significantly to the discovery of biologically active natural products with potential therapeutic applications. Recognized by his peers and professional organizations, Dr. Mountessou continues to impact the scientific community through his research, teaching, and collaborations. His work not only advances the field of chemistry but also holds promise for addressing pressing global health challenges.
Publications Top Notes
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Phytochemistry and pharmacology of Harungana madagascariensis: Mini review
Authors: GM Happi, GLM Tiani, BYM Gbetnkom, H Hussain, IR Green, BT Ngadjui, BYG Mountessou, et al.
Phytochemistry Letters, 35, 103–112 (2020)
📚 Citations: 34
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Two xanthones and two rotameric (3→8) biflavonoids from the Cameroonian medicinal plant Allanblackia floribunda Oliv. (Guttiferae)
Authors: BYG Mountessou, J Tchamgoue, JP Dzoyem, RT Tchuenguem, F Surup, et al.
Tetrahedron Letters, 59(52), 4545–4550 (2018)
📚 Citations: 21
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Crystal structure, spectroscopic analysis, electronic properties and molecular docking study of costunolide for inhibitor capacity against Onchocerca volvulus main protease
Authors: BYG Mountessou, ASW Mbobda, HG Stammler, EO Akintemi, MB Mbah, et al.
Journal of Molecular Structure, 1282, 135185 (2023)
📚 Citations: 16
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Simplicilones A and B isolated from the endophytic fungus Simplicillium subtropicum SPC3
Authors: EGM Anoumedem, BYG Mountessou, SF Kouam, A Narmani, F Surup
Antibiotics, 9(11), 753 (2020)
📚 Citations: 16
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Structural analysis and molecular docking study of pachypodostyflavone: A potent anti-onchocerca
Authors: BYG Mountessou, AW Ngouonpe, ASW Mbobda, EO Akintemi, et al.
Journal of Molecular Structure, 1291, 136003 (2023)
📚 Citations: 12
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Pachypodostyflavone, a new 3-methoxy flavone and other constituents with antifilarial activities from the stem bark of Duguetia staudtii
Authors: ASW Mbobda, AW Ngouonpe, GM Happi, BYG Mountessou, E Monya, et al.
Planta Medica International Open, 8(02), e56–e61 (2021)
📚 Citations: 8
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Chemical constituents of the medicinal plant Indigofera spicata Forsk (Fabaceae) and their chemophenetic significance
Authors: IL Mouafon, GLM Tiani, BYG Mountessou, M Lateef, MS Ali, IR Green, et al.
Biochemical Systematics and Ecology, 95, 104230 (2021)
📚 Citations: 8
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Virtual screening, MMGBSA, and molecular dynamics approaches for identification of natural products from South African biodiversity as potential Onchocerca volvulus pi-class inhibitors
Authors: MB Maraf, BYG Mountessou, TFH Merlin, P Ariane, JNN Fekoua, et al.
Heliyon, 10(9) (2024)
📚 Citations: 6
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Vibrational spectroscopic investigations, electronic properties, molecular structure and quantum mechanical study of an antifolate drug: pyrimethamine
Authors: PMA Mekoung, BYG Mountessou, MB Mbah, M Signe, AAA Zintchem, et al.
Computational Chemistry, 10(4), 157–185 (2022)
📚 Citations: 4
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Molecular structure, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation, and drug likeness evaluation of 3,7-dihydroxy-1,2-dimethoxyxanthone for its anticancer activity
Authors: AO Oladimeji, BYG Mountessou, P Penta, DD Babatunde, EO Akintemi, et al.
Journal of Molecular Structure, 1319, 139359 (2025)
📚 Citations: 3