Molecular Biology Laboratory [ddPCR] International Workshop

Molecular Biology Laboratory [ddPCR] International Workshop

On November 18, 2024, Tishk International University’s Molecular Biology Lab officially opened its doors. The Medical Analysis and Nutrition and Dietetics Departments at Applied Science Faculty held an international workshop in collaboration with the Biotech Laboratory from Amman/Jordan under the title of Molecular Biology Laboratory to mark the occasion.

The workshop was attended by Prof. Sultan Abu Orabi, the president of Tishk International University, Dr. Mehmed Ozdemir, the vice president of TIU, Prof. Faiq Hussain, the Dean of Faculty of Applied Sciences at TIU, Dr. Tola Faraj, the Vice Dean of Faculty of Applied Sciences at TIU, and many esteemed guests from other universities, including the Dean and the Vice Dean of the College of Medicine at Hawler Medical University, the Dean of the Erbil Technical Health and Medical College at Erbil Polytechnic University, academics from Catholic University in Erbil, and SUE, directors, and researchers from the research centers of different universities.

The workshop involved three key speakers. The first key speaker was Dr. Ayman Aldabsheh, the General Manager of Al Rayyan International Scientific Company (RISC) and a biotechnologist and genetics engineer with over 20 years’ experience in the field of human, pharmaceutical, veterinary, and agricultural molecular biology applications (genomics and proteomics).

His presentation was under the title “Digital PCR: A Revolutionary Approach to Nucleic Acid Quantification,” where he talked about the principles, applications, and advantages of using the Digital Droplet PCR. He mentioned that digital PCR (dPCR) is an advanced molecular technique for quantifying nucleic acids. It improves upon conventional PCR by offering absolute quantification instead of relative results. The key principle of dPCR is partitioning the sample into thousands of droplets or wells. Each partition undergoes independent amplification, enhancing sensitivity and precision. Detection is achieved by measuring fluorescent signals from each partition. Unlike traditional methods, dPCR eliminates the need for standard curves. It is highly resistant to inhibitors, making it robust across various samples. dPCR is particularly useful for detecting rare genetic variants.

The second speaker was Dr. Mukhlis Hamad, an expert in human molecular genetics in the Erbil City-Kurdistan Region of Iraq. He completed a PhD in Human Molecular Genetics in 2018 through a joint program between Salahaddin University-Erbil (SUE) and University Technology Malaysia (UTM).

His presentation was about an “Overview of Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory Techniques.” He mentioned that the molecular diagnostics laboratory techniques are essential tools for analyzing biological markers in the genome and proteome. They focus on DNA, RNA, and protein detection to diagnose and monitor diseases accurately. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is widely used for amplifying DNA and detecting specific genetic material. Real-time PCR adds quantitative analysis through fluorescence signals. Another technique, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), identifies chromosomal abnormalities and gene rearrangements.

The third speaker was Dr. Nader Ghanayem, a molecular biologist and the scientific and technical manager of RISC. He is a biotechnologist and genetics engineer with over 20 years’ experience in molecular biology.

His presentation was about Genetic Test for Diet & Fitness . He focused on the role of nutrigenomics, which explores how food influences a person’s genes and how genetic makeup impacts the body’s response to diet. Nutrigenomics aims to identify how genes and diet interact to influence health and disease risk. The sampling process involves a buccal swab collected from the cheek and tongue, adhering to strict guidelines like refraining from eating, drinking, smoking, or brushing teeth for 1–2 hours prior. 

The event fostered an engaging atmosphere where attendees participated actively, asking questions and sharing their thoughts on the topics discussed. Overall, the event was a great success.