Journal of Biotechnology Research Center

Background: Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria are Gram-positive, round to lancelet in morphology. Arranged in pairs (diplococci), they cause opportunistic infections when spread from the nasopharynx to other body locations, like typical pneumonia, septicemia, meningitis, and otitis media. Methodology: In this cross-sectional study, A hundred samples of sputum were taken at Baghdad teaching hospitals and other hospitals of the medical city from individuals suffering from respiratory tract infections. 50% of patients were diagnosed with pneumonia had COVID-19 positive. These samples were analyzed by several techniques (Gram stain, optochin sensitivity, and catalase, biofilm, and HiCrome agar as selective media), then cultured on Mueller-Hinton agar (M.H.) for antibiotic sensitivity. Conclusion: This study indicates the presence of highly resistant pneumococcus with multiple drug resistance (MDR) ability; the most effective antibiotic in this study was meropenem, which inhibits these bacterial pathogens.

Background: Aluminum is an element that affects the functions of living organisms. It enters the body in several ways and has negative effects. Various nanoparticles are widely used in the field of industry and medical materials, especially metal oxides. Fenugreek (T. foenum graecum) is an herbal medicine that can reduce genotoxicity, the effects of inflammatory cells, and reduce oxidative stress because it contains beneficial chemical compounds, including sugars, saponins, flavonoids, fiber, choline, and trigonelline. However, their impact on public health is still not completely clear. Objective: Identify the extent of the effect of aluminum oxide nanoparticles in causing DNA- fragmentation in the male reproductive system and specific damage to testicular tissue and determine the effective preventive role of the action of the plant extract of fenugreek seeds in treating the condition and improving the results in all groups treated with aluminum oxide nanoparticles for two periods after the end of the period of dosing them with the nanoparticle, and then giving them aqueous extract of fenugreek seeds only for 14 days. Methodology: The study was conducted on 70 male albino rats divided into 14 groups including the control group, who took oral doses of the nanomaterial solution Al₂O₃ NPs in two different concentrations (70 mg/kg and 140 mg /kg) for two periods (21 days and 35 days) while the aqueous extract of fenugreek seeds was given in concentrations ( 2 gm/kg 4 gm /kg ) for 14 days and the end of each experiment was followed by weighing the animals, blood sample of each animal was collected by heart puncture then directly centrifuged and the serum was kept at -80 ◦C for biochemical analysis and some histological standards, the animals were dissected then testes were excised and fixed in neutral buffered 10% formalin for histological preparation and evaluated the levels of DNA fragmentation by examining the Acridin Orange that take part in the Reproductive pathologies. Results: showed that Al₂O₃-NPs caused Testes sections to show seminiferous tubules with certain degeneration and necrosis of spermatogonia cells besides necrotic debris inside the lumen, no sperms appearing inside the lumen, as well as a significant increase (P≤ 0.05) in DNA fragmentation in sperms, fenugreek seed aqueous extract, on the other hand, improved testicular tissue and dramatically decreased DNA fragmentation. Conclusions: The current study concluded that Al₂O₃ caused through oral administration in high concentrations and for long terms causes tissue testicular damage and an increase the DNA fragmentation by generating oxidative stress and aqueous extract of fenugreek seeds succeeded in alleviating the harmful effects of Al₂O₃ and by curbing DNA- fragmentation.

Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is considered one of sexually transferred disease in the world and it is considered as one of the causative agents of cervical cancer. Cervical cytology is used widely as the initial tool in cervical cancer screening worldwide. The purpose of this study was to analyze the correlation between cytological findings from Papanicolaou (pap.)-stained cervical smears and cases of HPV infection of the uterine cervix as identified by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing.
Methodology: Between June 2021 and December 2022, retrospective study for cervical smears of 370 Baghdad women (attending to the Central Public Health Laboratory (CPHL)/Ministry of Health in Baghdad) were stained by the Pap procedure and categorized by the Bethesda classification system, High Risk-Human papilloma Virus (HR-HPV) detection was used to analyze the HPV status of the cervical samples that were collectedResults: HR-HPV testing was done for 370 women (230 women that have shown Positive results for HR-HPV and 140 were negative for HPV). Our result showed highly significant differences at (P ≤ 0.01) for HR-HPV genotype and abnormal Pap smear with High grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) at 23.9 %, while it was at 41.3% with low grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) Pap smear which represent the highest rate, in addition to 34.7% for abnormal Pap smear with atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS) classificationConclusion: . . This study has shown that molecular investigation for HR-HPV might be essential for diagnosis of patients with proven epithelial abnormality in their Pap smears.

Background: White blood cell malignancy is known as chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), or chronic myeloid leukemia. This type of leukemia is defined by the buildup of myeloid cells in the blood and their uncontrollably elevated proliferation in the bone marrow. A proliferation of adult granulocytes (neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils) and their progenitors is observed in CML, a clonal bone marrow stem cell illness; a distinctive increase in basophils is clinically significant. This particular form of myeloproliferative neoplasm is linked to the Philadelphia chromosome, a distinctive chromosomal rearrangement.
Methods: This was a cross-sectional hospital based study was carried out in Kirkuk Governorate, Iraq from the beginning of November 2022 to May 2023 on chronic myeloid leukemia patients in Oncology and Hematology Center. The total of 53 patients and 15 control who were admitted diagnosed as chronic myeloid leukemia on complete blood count were included in the study. Incomplete data and patients who did not provide informed consent were omitted from the analysis.
Results: A total of 53 patients were included in the study with mean age of 47.3±12.8 years. Mean HGB was 13.11±12.79 g/dl while HCT was 38.27±37.88%. PLT was 257.33±218.08 x109cells/mm3, WBC 4.77±4.61 x109 cells/mm3 , RBC 4.77± 4.61 x1012/L. All statistics were implemented using statistics programs.
Conclusion: The present study predicted the median age of years 47.3 in patients from chronic myeloid leukemia considerable difference did not exist in various Hematological parameters of male and female CML patients. There concluded not that an important difference correlation was observed with age. There was significant difference observed in platelets count of these patients on the basis of gender

Background: Rising carbon dioxide concentrations in the Earth's atmosphere drive greenhouse gas accumulation and climate change. Addressing this critical concern mandates inventive solutions, among which the Microbial Carbon Capture Cell (MCC) system stands out. Central to MCC technology is microalgae, encompassing diverse species with exceptional carbon dioxide absorption capabilities. Microalgae convert carbon dioxide into biomass through photosynthesis, effectively sequestering it and mitigating environmental impact. Beyond carbon sequestration, MCC technology extends to wastewater treatment and flue gas purification, providing a dual advantage by combating pollutants while capturing carbon dioxide. This holistic approach contributes to cleaner air and water, promoting sustainable development. MCC technology harbors transformative potential in energy. Microalgae-derived biomass can yield biofuels, a renewable energy source that substantially reduces greenhouse gas emissions. This shift from fossil fuels to biofuels is pivotal for reducing our carbon footprint and advancing sustainability
Objective: This study has multiple objectives, including emphasizing the role of microalgae in efficiently sequestering carbon dioxide, the parameters that affect microalgae growth and performance, and improving their carbon sequestration capabilities.
Discussion: In addition, the study highlights the power generation of MCC technology and its contribution to clean energy production and grid sustainability. The study also addresses the production of biodiesel from microalgae as a renewable and environmentally friendly fuel source, reducing carbon emissions, reducing dependence on depleting fossil fuels, and enhancing energy security
Conclusion: Microbial carbon capture cell technology holds promise in combating climate change by efficiently capturing carbon, reducing pollution, and transitioning to cleaner, sustainable energy sources.

Staphylococcus aureus is a common pathogen that causes various infections. The emergence of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) has made treatment more challenging, necessitating the exploration of new therapeutic approaches. In this regard, the study investigated the optimal conditions for phage production and activity.
Background: Evaluating the effect of different temperatures and culture media on the production of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA bacteriophages.
Methods: It was found that using Luria Broth media and maintaining a temperature of 37°C provided the best conditions for phage production. Additionally, Phage Rih21 exhibited lytic activity against MRSA isolates within a temperature range of 37-45°C, with the ideal temperature being 37°C. These findings highlight the potential of phage therapy as a promising strategy to combat MRSA infections.
Results: In the study, the effect of media composition on Staphylococcus aureus phage production was investigated using a double agar overlay method. The plaque morphology of the phage was observed to vary in different culture media, with sizes ranging from small to large and appearances ranging from clear to turbid. Among the tested media, Luria Broth was identified as the optimal medium for phage production. A temperature of 37°C was determined to be the ideal temperature for phage production. Additionally, Phage Rih21 exhibited lytic activity against MRSA isolates in vitro, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic option for combating MRSA infections. These findings support the use of phage therapy as a promising strategy against MRSA infections.
Conclusion: Storing phages at 4°C in a 50% glycerol medium provided the best preservation and density of phages.A temperature range of 28-37°C was identified as optimal for bacteriophage production.The Rih21 bacteriophage exhibited lytic activity at temperatures ranging from 37-45°C, with the ideal temperature for activity being 37°C.The optimal temperature for phage production varied based on the specific phage and its host.

Background: Ferulic acid (F), a hydroxycinnamic acid (4-hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamic acid), is one of the primary phenolic acids found in apples. F has potential biological activity, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. Objective: The present study aimed to purify F from Iraqi Apple petioles crude extract and investigate the effect of F on cell viability in (human colon cancer cell/ SW480, human hepatocyte carcinoma/ Hep G2, adenocarcinoma of the stomach/ AGS, and human lung adenocarcinoma/ A549), beside the normal cell line (Human Embryonic Kidney/HEK 293). Methodology: F was determined quantitatively and qualitatively in different aerial parts for Iraqi apple (Malus domestica), cv." Ibrahimi" included leaves, petioles, and stems extracts. Petioles represented a rich source of F, which was isolated and purified by preparative HPLC. Various analytical characterization methods confirmed the chemical structure of the isolated Ferulic acid (F2): Melting point, High-performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), Carbon Hydrogen and Nitrogen elemental analyses (CHN), and Identification by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Cytotoxicity was evaluated using MTT assay after exposure to escalating doses (500, 250, 125, 62.5, 31.25, and 15.625) μg/ml of F and Cisplatin (standard chemotherapy) against cancer cell lines and normal cell line. Results: About 0.952 g F2 was obtained from 14.086 g apple petioles (6.8%). The MTT test results showed that the purified F2 possessed significant anticancer activity on all cancer cell lines. Conclusion: Results suggested that purified F2 from Iraqi apple petioles has potential cytotoxicity, which may benefit human health.

Background: There are more than four known strains of Lactobacillus bacteria, which have the ability to inhibit and kill antibiotic-resistant bacteria, especially Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This is because it possesses specific mechanisms such as the production and formation of enzymes, acetaldehyde, organic acids, bacteriocins, H2O2, etc. Pathogenic bacteria are identified by their morphological characteristics on differential culture media and their ability to ferment lactose and produce mucus and hemolysin. Isolates are diagnosed through biochemical tests with three main tests: catalase enzyme production, oxylase fermentation test, and coagulase test, while molecular diagnosis is performed by using PCR tests and VITEK2 technology. Results: The antibiotic-resistant bacteria have the ability to have virulence genes such as coa, nuc, fimH, hlg, and hla, to name a few, which are widespread in Staph. aureus bacteria, and the hlyA and fimH genes belong to Gram-negative bacteria. Lactobacillus bacteria can bind to the host's living tissue cells via adhesion proteins and prevent Staph. aureus bacteria from infecting the host's tissues by up to more than 80%, thus maintaining the environmental and life balance within the host and reducing the formation of anti-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin in particular (IL17), it was also found that Lactobacillus in general has the ability to inhibit and kill antibiotic-resistant Gram-negative bacteria (MDA). Conclusions: Lactobacillus strains can prevent multidrug-resistant (MDR) Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria from spreading and multiplying by secreting antigens, proteins, and acidic compounds that disrupt the processes of adhesion of pathogenic bacteria to the living tissues of the host.

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major killer, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects almost one-quarter of the global population. The aim of study: is to Investigate the correlation between nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and an increased risk of colorectal cancer (CRC), as well as the relationship between liver function enzymes and specific serum biomarkers in CRC patients with NAFLD. Methodology: A case-control study involving 60 participants was conducted from February to August 2022. The patients with colon cancer were examined at Baghdad Medical City's Al-Amal Hospital for Radiation and Nuclear Medicine and Oncology Teaching Hospital, and blood samples were taken. Thirty patients with NAFLD who had just been diagnosed with colorectal cancer (CRC) were recruited. The study included 30 healthy individuals who served as controls. Colorimetric method kits were used to determine liver function enzymes. Also, the serum biomarkers cathepsin B, Obestatin, and kininogen-1 were calculated by ELISA. The serum levels of liver function enzymes, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were evaluated in newly diagnosed CRC patients who suffered NAFLD and compared with healthy controls. Results: It was indicated that all tested enzymes were significantly elevated in newly diagnosed CRC patients with NAFLD. The correlation was conducted between liver function enzymes and biological markers. In the patient group, positive correlations were detected between ALT and cathepsin-B, obestatin, and kininogen-1 (r = 0.43, 0.66, and 0.52, respectively), with a significance in correlation recorded with obestatin and kininogen-1 (p = 0.007 and 0.047, respectively). AST inversely (negatively) correlated with cathepsin-B, obestatin, and kininogen-1, with no significance in control. However, in the patient group, the correlation was shifted to be positive with no significance. In the control group, ALP positively correlated with cathepsin-B, obestatin, and kininogen-1 (r = 0.1, 0.33, and 0.57, respectively). No significant differences were recorded between ALP, cathepsin-B, and obestatin. Meanwhile, the positive correlation between ALP and kininogen-1 was significant (p = 0.026). Conclusion: This study found significant liver function enzyme increases in newly diagnosed colorectal cancer (CRC) individuals with NAFLD. Selected blood biomarkers and liver function enzymes were positively correlated in CRC patients with NAFLD. These data suggest that NAFLD may raise the risk of colorectal cancer, which could inform future studies and clinical practice.

Background: Idiopathic immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an autoimmune hematological disorder characterized by a platelet count below 100 × 10⁹/L due to immune-mediated destruction and impaired production of platelets. Immune regulatory molecules, including cytokines and immune checkpoint markers, play a vital role in modulating the inflammatory environment and immune tolerance. Dysregulation in the expression or function of these biomarkers contributes significantly to disease pathogenesis and progression. Aim of study: The objective of this study was to evaluate the correlation between serum levels of five immunological markers—TNFAIP3, CD28, CTLA4, FoxO3, and IL-39—and the severity of ITP in Iraqi patients, with an emphasis on diagnostic utility and inter-marker relationships. Methodology: This case-control study enrolled 180 participants, divided into three groups: newly diagnosed ITP patients (ND, n = 62), medicated ITP patients (MD, n = 58), and healthy controls (HC, n = 60). Serum concentrations of TNFAIP3, CD28, CTLA4, FoxO3, and IL-39 were quantified using ELISA. Statistical analysis was conducted using GraphPad Prism v9.0. Results: The study found significantly elevated levels of TNFAIP3 (928 ± 127.7 ng/mL), CD28 (17.5 ± 1.28 ng/mL), CTLA4 (147.5 ± 29.34 ng/mL), FoxO3 (711.7 ± 45.17 ng/mL), and IL-39 (12.98 ± 2.98 ng/mL) in ND patients compared to MD patients and HC (p < 0.001). IL-39 levels were notably reduced in the MD group (4.61 ± 0.392 ng/mL) but remained elevated in ND patients, suggesting its potential as an early-stage biomarker. ROC analysis demonstrated exceptional diagnostic performance for CD28, CTLA4, FoxO3, and IL-39, with AUC values of 1.0 in ND patients, achieving 100% sensitivity and specificity at optimal cut-off points. TNFAIP3 showed excellent discriminatory power in ND patients (AUC = 1.0), but limited diagnostic value in MD cases (AUC = 0.537). Pearson correlation analysis revealed strong positive correlations among most biomarkers, especially between TNFAIP3 and FoxO3 (r = 0.938), CTLA4 (r = 0.934), and CD28 (r = 0.893), indicating coordinated immunoregulatory dysfunction in ITP pathogenesis. Conclusion: The findings highlight that TNFAIP3, CD28, CTLA4, FoxO3, and IL-39 are significantly associated with disease onset and severity in ITP. These markers offer strong diagnostic value, especially in distinguishing newly diagnosed cases, and may serve as potential targets for immunomodulatory therapies. The observed inter-marker correlations further suggest a complex but coordinated dysregulation of immune responses in ITP, meriting further mechanistic studies.