Uncategorized

Chemistry Students’ Visit to the Center A group of second-year students from the Department of Chemistry, College of Science, University of Baghdad, visited the Biotechnology Research Center at Al-Nahrain University. They were welcomed by the Head of the Department of Environmental Biotechnology, Professor Dr. Hazem Ismail. During the visit, the students toured the center’s laboratories and learned about the latest equipment and technologies used in research. Researchers at the center gave presentations on their current studies in fields such as genetic engineering and biological technologies. The visit aimed to strengthen the relationship between the university and the center, while providing students with opportunities to explore practical applications of chemistry in the field of biotechnology

Membership in the Examination Committee for a Ph.D. Dissertation Assistant Professor Dr. Ashwaq Shanan Abdul, Head of the Department of Plant Biotechnology at the Biotechnology Research Center, Al-Nahrain University, participated as a committee member in the Ph.D. dissertation defense entitled: “Evaluation of Inhibitory Effects of Glycyrrhiza glabra and Syzygium aromaticum Extracts on Streptococcus mutans by Gene Expression” by researcher Marah Laith Mohammed Hassan at the Institute of Genetic Engineering, University of Baghdad. The study aimed to isolate and characterize S. mutans, a common bacterial cause of dental caries, using morphological, biochemical, and molecular tests. The research compared the effects of plant extracts (G. glabra and S. aromaticum), antibiotics, toothpaste, and mouthwash on S. mutans growth through gene expression analysis using RT-PCR. The findings revealed that clove and licorice extracts altered the gene expression of gtfB and gtfD, inhibiting biofilm formation without reducing bacterial growth in the mouth. These extracts can serve as natural anti-plaque agents for dental caries prevention. The dissertation was accepted following a thorough scientific discussion and feedback from the committee. The candidate successfully defended her research, concluding with the announcement that she earned a well-deserved distinction (excellent) grade

Commencement of the Bacterial Examination Course The Department of Environmental Biotechnology has commenced a bacterial examination course at the Biotechnology Research Center. The first day covered the use of advanced laboratory techniques, where Asst. Prof. Dr. Ghaidaa Hussein introduced participants to bacterial isolation and identification methods, as well as proper handling of laboratory samples and diagnostic techniques using modern diagnostic tools. The course will include both theoretical and practical components, conducted by a specialized team in bacterial examination from the Department of Environmental Biotechnology

Commencement of the Bacterial Examination Course The Department of Environmental Biotechnology has commenced a bacterial examination course at the Biotechnology Research Center. The first day covered the use of advanced laboratory techniques, where Asst. Prof. Dr. Ghaidaa Hussein introduced participants to bacterial isolation and identification methods, as well as proper handling of laboratory samples and diagnostic techniques using modern diagnostic tools. The course will include both theoretical and practical components, conducted by a specialized team in bacterial examination from the Department of Environmental Biotechnology

Biotechnology Research Center Commandeers Scientific Workshop The scientists of the Biotechnology Research Center at Al-Nahrain University have conducted their scientific workshop on “Extraction and Purification of Active Compounds in Medicinal Plants.” Introductory lectures and demonstrations were focused on, covering extraction mechanisms, modern purification techniques for medical compounds, and their biological effectiveness in various applications. The workshop was organized by a group of faculty members in the Department of Plant Biotechnology under the supervision of the Director General of the center, Professor Dr. Mohammed Mahmoud Farhan. The workshop was part of activities undertaken by the center’s continuing education unit. The workshop brought together a group of researchers and postgraduate students from different institutions and ministries for four days, and certificates of attendance were presented to all participants