Iraq Biotechnology Conference (May 7-9) Baghdad, Iraq

Proceedings

May 7-9, 2013 Baghdad, Iraq

Iraq Biotechnology Conference (May 7-9) Baghdad, Iraq

CONTENTS
I. AGENDA ..................................................................................................................................... 5 II. INTERNATIONAL SPEAKERS ................................................................................................. 10 NISREEN D. AL-HMOUD, PH.D. RESPONSIBLE RESEARCH IN LIFE SCIENCES: BIOETHICS .......................................................... 10 NISREEN D. AL-HMOUD, PH.D. A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO STRENGTHENING BIOTECHNOLOGY PROGRAMS: A SUCCESS STORY FROM THE ROYAL SCIENTIFIC SOCIETY OF JORDAN ................................... 11 ALI ATOUI, PH.D. MYCOTOXINS: BIOSECURITY AND IMPROVING FOOD SAFETY ................................................... 11 DAVID R. FRANZ, DVM, PH.D. GLOBAL NETWORKS OF ENLIGHTENED LEADERS IN OUR BIOLOGICAL LABORATORIES: POWERFUL CATALYSTS FOR PRODUCTIVITY SUSTAINABILITY, SAFETY AND SECURITY ..................................................................................... 12 GAVIN MACGREGOR-SKINNER BVSC, MSC, MPH, MRCVS ONE HEALTH AND SYSTEMS-BASED APPROACHES TO BIOSECURITY ...................................... 13 GAVIN MACGREGOR-SKINNER BVSC, MSC, MPH, MRCVS U.S. NATIONAL CENTER FOR BIOTECHNOLOGY INFORMATION (NCBI): DATABASES AND RESOURCES ....................................................................................... 13 STEPHEN S. MORSE, PH.D., FAAM, FELLOW AAAS BIOTECHNOLOGY: COMMUNICATE, COLLABORATE, CONNECT ................................................. 14 CRAIG VANDERWAGEN, MD A SYSTEMATIC APPROACH TO DEVELOPING NEW BIOTECHNOLOGY CAPACITY AND CAPABILITIES ....................................................................................................... 14 III. MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE ............................................................................................... 15 HARB ADEL ABED, PH.D. APPLICATIONS OF DNA AND MOLECULAR MARKERS: TECHNIQUES IN AGRICULTURE .......... 15 SAHAR AHMED AL-BAYATTI, PH.D. APPLICATIONS OF GENE AND GENOME-BASED TECHNOLOGIES FOR IMPROVING ANIMAL PRODUCTION AND HEALTH ........................................................................ 15 SALAM ABBAS HUSSEIN, PH.D. APPLICATIONS OF BIOFERTILIZERS AND BIOPESTICIDES ........................................................... 16 SUHAILA AIED BRAHEEM, PH.D. PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY: APPLICATIONS OF PLANT TISSUE CULTURES ................................. 17

Iraq Biotechnology Conference (May 7-9) Baghdad, Iraq

TAMARA ADNAN, PH.D. CANDIDATE CURRENT STATUS AND FUTURE PROSPECTS IN BIOTECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS IN MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE .......................................................................... 17 IV. MINISTRY OF INDUSTRY AND MINERALS ............................................................. 19 ABBAS FADHIL ABBAS RAPID LABORATORY TESTS: A LEADING TECHNOLOGY IN IRAQ ............................................... 19 ABBAS FADHIL ABBAS AL-RAZI CENTER FOR RESEARCH AND MEDICAL DIAGNOSTIC KIT PRODUCTION .................. 19 V. MINISTRY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY ............................................................ 20 HUSSEIN. OD. KREADY, PH.D. INFANT DIARRHEA: USING RT-PCR TO IDENTIFY THREE HEMORRHAGIC BACTERIAL STRAINS ........................................................................................... 20 INAAM N. ALI WASTEWATER TREATMENT USING BIOFILM SLIME LAYER TECHNOLOGY .............................. 20 MAHDI FALIH AL-JEWARI BIOLOGICAL WEAPON CONVENTION PERSPECTIVE OF BIOTECHNOLOGY, IRAQ NATIONAL MONITORING AUTHORITY ............................................................................................................. 21 MOHAMMED W. KHUDHAIR, MSC AND HUSSAIN F. AL RUBEAI, PH.D. ESTABLISHING A MOLECULAR LABORATORY: IDENTIFYING BIOLOGICAL CONTROL AGENTS AND THE EFFECT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ....................................................................................... 21 MOHAMMED W. KHUDHAIR, MSC AND HUSSAIN F. AL RUBEAI, PH.D. INTEGRATED PEST CONTROL RESEARCH CENTER: FOOD SECURITY AND BIOLOGICAL CONTROL PROGRAMS ..................................................................................................................... 22 RIYADH UTHAFA, PH.D., RAFAH RASHEED ISMAIL, EMMAN MOHAMMED KATHEM, MSC, SANA ISMAIL AHMMAD, SUHA ABED ALHAMMED, MSC, FAEEZA AHMMAD EVALUATION OF BREAST CANCER ANTIGEN 15.3, COPPER, ZINC, CALCIUM AND IRON IN BREAST CANCER PATIENTS.......................................................... 22 SAMIA KHALIL MAHMOOD, PH.D. THE EFFECT OF CYCLAMEN PERSICUM EXTRACTS ON FOOD POISONING BACTERIA AND THE SHELF LIFE OF FRESH MINCED MEAT .................................. 23 ZAHRA N. AL HATTAB, PH.D. AND WAJIDA KH. AL-QAUDHY , MSC APPLICATIONS OF BIOTECHNOLOGY TO IMPROVE CROP PRODUCTION UNDER ABIOTIC STRESS AND INCREASE SECONDARY PRODUCTS IN MEDICINAL PLANTS .................. 23

Iraq Biotechnology Conference (May 7-9) Baghdad, Iraq

ZAINAB MOHAMMED TAHER JAAFAR, PH.D. THE ROLE OF BIOACTIVE COMPONENTS OF POLYSACCHARIDES (B-D GLUCAN) EXTRACTED FROM FOOD SOURCES AS INHIBITORY CELL PROLIFERATION ON CANCER CELLS.............................................................................................. 23 VI. UNIVERSITY OF BAGHDAD ................................................................................................... 25 SILVA A.YAKOUB ZOKIAN, PH.D., ABED AL-JASIM M. AL-JIBOURI, PH.D., AND ALI H.AL-MUSAWI, PH.D. RAPD-PCR ANALYSIS OF GENOMIC DNA OF SOME SPECIES OF EUPHORBIA GROWN ON THE UNIVERSITY OF BAGHDAD CAMPUS IN JADIRIYAH ..................... 25 VII. UNIVERSITY OF MUSTANSIRIYAH ........................................................................................ 26 AHMED AL-SHAMMARI, PH.D. IMMUNO-PHOTOSENSITIZING ONCOLYTIC MEASLES VIRUS FOR IMMUNOPHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY, IN VITRO AND IN VIVO STUDY ....................................................... 26 AMER TAWFEEQ, PH.D. CHRONIC IMPACT OF BACTERICIDAL DOSE OF PULSE LASER ABLATION IN LIQUID SYNTHESIZED SILVER NANOPARTICLES ON HEMATOLOGICAL, LIVER, AND KIDNEY FUNCTION OF WHITE RATS......................................................................... 28 VIII. UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY .......................................................................................... 29 RANA MUNTHER BADRI, MSC ESCHERICHIA COLI USED FOR GENE CLONING.............................................................................. 29 ZINA NOOR, MSC EFFECT OF ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DRUGS ON THE CORROSION BEHAVIOR OF IMPLANT BIOMATERIALS IN HUMAN BODY FLUID ............................................. 30 SALIH A. AL-BAKRI, PH.D. AND INAS S. MOHAMMED, MSC EPIDEMIOLOGICAL AND MOLECULAR STUDY OF BRUCELLA SPECIES CAUSING MALTA FEVER .................................................................................................. 30 IX. INTERNATIONAL SPEAKER BIOGRAPHIES ........................................................................... 31

Iraq Biotechnology Conference (May 7-9) Baghdad, Iraq

I. Agenda
Iraq Biotechnology Conference
Al-Nahrain Center for Strategic Studies Baghdad, Iraq May 7 9, 2013 Advancing Safe and Secure Biotechnology Research and Applications in Iraq DAY 1, TUESDAY, MAY 7, 2013
Objective: Brief participants on current advancements in biotechnology
08:00 09:00 Registration of Participants and Coffee Opening of the Conference Mr. Hamza Hasan, Director General, Nahrain Center for Strategic Studies Mr. Steve Zate, U.S. Minister Counselor of Economic Affairs, U.S. Embassy Baghdad Welcome Remarks Ms. Shawn Garcia, U.S. Embassy Baghdad Dr. Ahmed Al-Shammari, Facilitator, Experimental Therapy Department, Iraqi Center for Cancer and Medical Genetic Research, Mustansiriyah University Dr. Hamid Ali Hadwan, Director General, National Center for Organic Farming, Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) Dr. Hassan H. Baker Al-Kazzaz, Director General, Public Health Directorate, Ministry of Health (MOH) Ms. Anwar Abdulkareem Abdulwahhab, Director, Occupational Health and Safety Center, Ministry of Industry and Minerals (MIM) Dr. Hussain F.M. Ali Al-Rubeai Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) COFFEE BREAK Introduction of International Presenters and Vendors Dr. Ahmed Al-Shammari, Facilitator, Experimental Therapy Department, Iraqi Center for Cancer and Medical Genetic Research, Mustansiriyah University

09:00 09:10 09:10 09:20

09:20 9:25 09:25 9:30

09:30 9:40

09:40 9:50

09:50 10:00

10:00 10:10

10:10 10:40 10:40 10:55

Iraq Biotechnology Conference (May 7-9) Baghdad, Iraq

Overview of Conference Objectives Dr. Ahmed Al-Shammari, Facilitator, Experimental Therapy Department, Iraqi Center for Cancer and Medical Genetic Research, Mustansiriyah University 10:55 11:05 Ministry of Agriculture Biotechnology Update Dr. Tamara Adnan Al-Khateeb, National Center for Organic Farming, Department of Biotechnology Ministry of Health Biotechnology Update Dr. Hassan H. Baker Al-Kazzaz, Director General, Public Health Directorate Ministry of Industry and Minerals Biotechnology Update Dr. Amir Moosa Yassin, General Director, Al Kindi Company Ministry of Science and Technology Biotechnology Update Dr. Hussain F.M. Ali Al-Rubeai COFFEE BREAK Global Networks of Enlightened Leaders in our Life-Sciences Laboratories Dr. David R. Franz, DVM, PhD., SBD Consulting Q&A: Global Networks of Enlightened Leaders in our Life-Sciences Laboratories One Health and Systems-Based Approaches to Biosecurity Dr. Gavin Macgregor-Skinner, BVSc, MSc, MPH, MRCVS Assistant Professor, Department of Public Health Sciences, College of Medicine The Pennsylvania State University Q&A: One Health and Systems-Based Approaches to Biosecurity Biotechnology Company Presentations Dr. Atheer Alsheikly, Executive Manager, Advanced Scientific Bureau (ASCO) Sana Kamal, Iraq Biotechnology Company Abdulrahman Hasan Jabur, General Manager, Olom Alibtikar Co Ltd. 14:30 15:30 15:30 LUNCH/ ROUND TABLE ADJOURN

11:05 11:15

11:15 11:25

11:25 11:35

11:35 12:00 12:00 12:45

12:45 13:00

13:00 13:45

13:45 14:00 14:00 14:30

Iraq Biotechnology Conference (May 7-9) Baghdad, Iraq

DAY 2, WEDNESDAY, MAY 8, 2013

Objective: Review implementation and use of biotechnology
08:00 09:00 09:00 09:15 Registration of Participants and Coffee Welcome and Review of Previous Day Dr. Ahmed Al-Shammari, Facilitator, Experimental Therapy Department, Iraqi Center for Cancer and Medical Genetic Research, Mustansiriyah University A Holistic Approach to Strengthening Biotechnology Programs: A Success Story from the Royal Scientific Society of Jordan Dr. Nisreen DaifAllah Al-Hmoud, Director, Center for Excellence in Biosafety, Biosecurity and Biotechnology, Royal Scientific Society (RSS), Jordan Q&A: A Holistic Approach to Strengthening Biotechnology Programs: A Success Story from the Royal Scientific Society of Jordan COFFEE BREAK A Systematic Approach to Developing New Biotechnology Capacity and Capabilities Dr. Craig Vanderwagen, Martin, Blanck, and Associates Q&A: A Systematic Approach to Developing New Biotechnology Capacity and Capabilities Biotechnology: Communicate, Collaborate, Connect Professor Stephen Morse, Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health Q&A: Biotechnology: Communicate, Collaborate, Connect COFFEE BREAK Mycotoxins: Biosecurity and Improving Food Safety Dr. Ali Atoui, Research and Development Department, Lebanese Atomic Energy Commission- National Council for Scientific Research Q&A: Mycotoxins: Biosecurity and Improving Food Safety Biological Weapon Convention Perspective of Biotechnology Mr. Mahdi Falih Al-Jewari, Iraq National Monitoring Directorate, Ministry of Science and Technology Epidemiological and Molecular Study of Brucella species causing Malta Fever Dr. Salih A. Al-Bakari & Ms. Inas S. Mohammed, Environmental Research Center, University of Technology

09:15 10:00

10:00 10:15

10:15 10:45 10:45 -11:30

11:30 11:45

11:45 12:30

12:30 12:45 12:45 13:15 13:15 13:45

13:45 14:00 14:00 14:15

14:15 14:30

Iraq Biotechnology Conference (May 7-9) Baghdad, Iraq

14:30 14:45

Immuno-Photosensitizing Oncolytic Measles Virus for Immuno-Photodynamic Therapy, In Vitro and In Vivo Study Dr. Ahmed Al-Shammari, Experimental Therapy Department, Iraqi Center for Cancer and Medical Genetic Research, Mustansiriyah University LUNCH/ROUND TABLES ADJOURN

14:45 15:45 15:45

DAY 3, THURSDAY, MAY 9, 2013

Objective: Identify challenges and barriers using biotechnology
08:00 09:00 09:00 09:15 Registration of Participants and Coffee Welcome and Review of Previous Day Dr. Ahmed Al-Shammari, Facilitator, Experimental Therapy Department, Iraqi Center for Cancer and Medical Genetic Research, Mustansiriyah University CRDF Global: Science Engagement in Iraq Mr. Phill Starling, Science Engagement Program Director, CRDF Global Q&A: CRDF Global: Science Engagement in Iraq Responsible Research in Life Sciences: Bioethics Dr. Nisreen DaifAllah Al-Hmoud, Director, Center for Excellence in Biosafety, Biosecurity and Biotechnology, Royal Scientific Society (RSS), Jordan Q&A: Responsible Research in Life Sciences: Bioethics COFFEE BREAK U.S. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI): Databases and Resources Dr. Gavin Macgregor-Skinner, BVSc, MSc, MPH, MRCVS Assistant Professor, Department of Public Health Sciences, College of Medicine The Pennsylvania State University Escherichia Coli Used for Gene Cloning Ms. Rana Munther Badri, Environmental Research Center, University of Technology Infant Diarrhea: Using RT-PCR to Identify Three Hemorrhagic Bacterial Strains Dr. Hussein Od. Kready, Agricultural Research Directorate, Ministry of Science and Technology

09:15 09:45

09:45 10:00 10:00 - 10:30

10:30 10:45 10:45 11:15 11:15 11:45

11:45 12:00

12:00 12:15

Iraq Biotechnology Conference (May 7-9) Baghdad, Iraq

12:15 12:30

Applications of Gene and Genome-Based Technologies for Improving Animal Production and Health Dr. Sahar Ahmed Al-Bayati, State Company for Animal Resources Services, Ministry of Agriculture COFFEE BREAK Rapid Laboratory Tests: A Leading Technology in Iraq Mr. Abbas Fadhil Abbas, Al Razi Center, Ministry of Industry and Minerals RAPD-PCR Analysis of Genomic DNA of Some Species of Euphorbia Grown in University of Baghdad Campus in Jadiriyah Dr. Silva A.Yakoub Zokian, Mr. Abed Al-Jasim M. Al-Jibour, and Mr. Ali H. AlMusawi, Department of Biology, Baghdad University Chronic Impact of Bactericidal Dose of Pulse Laser Ablation in Liquid Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles on Hematological, Liver and Kidney Function of White Rats Dr. Amer T. Tawfeeq, Molecular Therapy Department, Iraqi Center for Cancer and Medical Genetic Research, Mustansiriyah University The Role of Bioactive Components of Polysaccharides (B-D Glucan) Extracted From Food Sources as Inhibitory Cell Proliferation on Cancer Cells Dr. Zainab Mohammed Taher Jaafar, Agricultural Research Directorate, Ministry of Science and Technology Application of Biofertilizer and Biopesticides Dr. Salam Abbas Hussein, National Center for Organic Farming, Ministry of Agriculture CLOSING CEREMONY LUNCH/ ROUND TABLE

12:30 13:00 13:00 13:15

13:15 13:30

13:30 13:45

13:45 14:00

14:00 14:15

14:15 14:30 14:30 15:30

Rapporteurs:

Dheyaa Abdul Salam Al Sallami, University of Baghdad Ahmed Ayad Hamza Al-Salman, University of Baghdad

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II. International Speakers

Responsible Research in Life Sciences: Bioethics Nisreen D. Al-Hmoud, Ph.D.
Modern biotechnology, with its focus on molecular biology and its concern for increasing human health and life spans, is all about the future. The revolution in life sciences has at its core information and techniques that can be used to change humanness itself as well as the concepts of what it means to be human. For the last 50 years, it has been essential to reflect on ethical behavior because throughout the world we do have the same objective: safeguard the human being in all situations where he/she faces a menace. Bioethics developed most prominently in the fields of life sciences and health due to the rapid progress in biological research and advanced medical techniques. Although the research in the field of human genetics is very thorny, it could be very informative and used to predict, change or select the useful trait. The misuse of human genetic and reproductive technologies could exacerbate existing disparities, create new forms of discrimination and inequality, and open the door to high-tech eugenic practices. All that can be attained scientifically is not necessarily desirable for the human being because it can have the potential to dehumanize him/her. The major breakthroughs in molecular biology and genetic engineering raised many serious legal, ethical and social questions, which should be taken into consideration when adopting these techniques. Religious perspectives have a significant role in the ethical use of genetics and biotechnology to connect autonomous choices with larger communal concerns. Religious views help ensure that scientific advances not only expand choices and produce benefits but do so without undermining our humanity and dignity in the process. There is no reason that people of different nations, cultures, religions and philosophies cannot work together in support of policies needed to protect our common human future. The exploration and development of bioethical practices and regulations encourage pluralistic debate since bioethics in its nature interdisciplinary and is of such great concern and importance to all societies. It should be kept in mind that Islam is the state religion in the majority of the Arab countries and that Islamic bioethics are rooted in Sharia and Fiqh, which find their justification in the precepts of the Quran and Hadith. It is in the light of these above two sources that all ethical dilemmas have to be examined. The socio-economic situation demands that in view of these breathtaking scientific developments, the situation is examined in our own societies. Appropriate social oversight and regulation need not impede potentially beneficial medical research and applications. Consequently, addressing these questions require a continuing dialogue, debate and discussion between academicians, religious scholars and researchers within Islamic countries. In conclusion, the future of human genetics and biotechnology is not only scientifically sophisticated and medically productive but also truly humane. Bioethics could familiarize people with technical realities by outlining the basic approach and guiding principles that can be used to address the questions that come up from time to time and to avoid the risks of these powerful biotechnologies.

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A Holistic Approach to Strengthening Biotechnology Programs: A Success Story from the Royal Scientific Society of Jordan Nisreen D. Al-Hmoud, Ph.D.
In 2004, upon the request of His Majesty King Abdullah II, an initiative was launched to draft recommendations for the leadership in Jordan to advance the Kingdoms biotechnology sector, attracting global recognition, regional leadership, and capitalizing on the strengths and competitive advantages of Jordans research universities, healthcare institutions and industries. Biotechnology offers solutions to global challenges from healthcare drug diagnosing and innovative medicines, to efficient agriculture usage and new energy modalities. When developing countries explore creating an ecosystem, which supports the advancement of science and technology, initial questions regarding the status of their academic institutions, regulatory infrastructure and protection of Intellectual Property (IP) are raised. To date, in the public sector, there are a number of initiatives underway in the development of the biotechnology sector within the Kingdom of Jordan. His Majesty King Abdullah II launched a series of committees and numerous biotechnology programs within the academic institutions, including an analysis of the regulatory and legal infrastructure, and policy recommendations. In 2008, the Royal Scientific Society (RSS) of Jordan started its Environmental Biosafety Unit, which included research work and services on molecular biology, microbiology and virology. Recently, El Hassan Science City of Jordan recognized the importance of developing a national and regional experience through the establishment of a Center for Excellence in Biosafety, Biosecurity and Biotechnology in order to address potential bio-risks arising from new biotechnologies. The Center for Excellence in Biosafety, Biosecurity and Biotechnology rests on the following premise: 1. desired advances in the science and applications of Biotechnology and 2. Synthetic Biology potentially raises the threat to the safety and security of public as a result of exposure to bio-risk agents. Thus, the Centers mission is to strengthen national security by reducing the risks posed by misuse of life sciences, epidemics, and other destabilizing biological events, and to improve the nations resilience in the face of such events through excellence in training, education and research of advanced biotechnology and through the engagement of policy-makers to ensure optimal preparedness and planning at the national level. The work of the Center will start with focus on the national level. However, the future scope is to develop and extend the activities on the regional and international levels. This certainly requires national, regional and international support. Thus, the Center will serve as a unique platform for national and regional experts to excel in their duties for preserving human health and the environment.

Mycotoxins: Biosecurity and Improving Food Safety Ali Atoui, Ph.D.

Mycotoxins are toxic substances produced mostly as secondary metabolites by fungi that grow on agricultural products in the field, during storage or processing under specific environmental factors (particularly temperature, humidity and rainfall). The major mycotoxin producing fungi include species of Aspergillus, Fusarium and Penicillium and the most important mycotoxins are aflatoxins, fumonisins, ochratoxins, deoxynivalenol/nivalenol, T2

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mycotoxin, patulin and zearalenone. Mycotoxin contamination has been a serious concern for human and animal health. They have been reported to be carcinogenic, teratogenic, tremorogenic, hemorrhagic and dermatitic to a wide range of organisms. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), more than 25% of the worlds agricultural production is contaminated with mycotoxins, leading to severe economic losses. This situation has prompted many countries to conduct research projects for all mycotoxin aspects. Activities for these research projects include identification and characterization of agriculturally important toxigenic fungi using all available techniques in chemistry and molecular biology. Another research strategy includes the isolation of genes responsible for mycotoxin biosynthesis and the characterization of their products and modes of action. The identification of such mycotoxin biosynthetic gene permits the development of new molecular techniques targeting these genes for early detection of toxigenic fungi in agricultural commodities. Studies are also carried out to investigate the genetic regulatory mechanisms that control toxin production. The biosynthesis of mycotoxin is often found to be genetically linked to morphogenesis, including sexual and asexual development. Consequently these enable to establish integrated strategies in order to manage and to prevent mycotoxin contamination before harvest.

Global Networks of Enlightened Leaders in our Biological Laboratories: Powerful catalysts for productivity, sustainability, safety and security David R. Franz DVM, Ph.D.
Humanity has made enormous strides in biological technologies and knowledge in the last 20 years. The powerful coming together of biology, chemistry, physics and information technologies holds enormous promise for improving the lives of all people. We see positive implications for health, agriculture, energy, food and even financial prosperity. Furthermore, the tools and knowledge are now global; we might say proliferation is over. Yet, the tools we have developed are still just tools to be used by humans, for good or for harm. The vast majority of scientists will use their powerful tools and knowledge for good. Each of us can contribute to the good and reduce the likelihood of harm, whether accidental or intentional, from our laboratories by working toward a culture of trust and responsibility. Laboratory communities of trust will demonstrate greater loyalty, stronger collaboration, more innovation and more productivity and prosperity. Enlightened leaders hire the best people and delegate a balance of responsibility and authority. Great leaders have a vision and share it with their colleagues. They give their subordinates opportunities to succeed at every turn. Effective leaders make thoughtful and principled decisions and accept responsibility for their decisions. They give credit to their colleagues for good work and accept responsibility when they miss the mark. While they may possess great authority, they temper it with humility and even a sense of humor. For these reasons they are worthy of their employees trust and they constantly seek to expand the networks of trust within their spheres of influence. Organizations with exceptional leadership are more productive, safer and more secure; the potential for contribution to their society is unlimited. Each of us, no matter what level we find ourselves in an organization or network of organizations, can be enlightened leaders, We can make this kind of difference for our organization and for the people of all nations.

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One Health and Systems-Based Approaches to Biosecurity Gavin Macgregor-Skinner BVSc, MSc, MPH, MRCVS
Biosecurity is a strategic and holistic integrated approach to analyzing and managing relevant risks to human, animal and plant life and health and associated risks for the environment. It is based on recognition of the critical linkages between sectors and the potential for hazards to move within and between sectors, with system-wide consequences. Reviewing national capacity provision for biosecurity as a whole helps identify any gaps in regulations and monitoring. Also, technologies for the detection of pests and disease have developed, that illustrate synergies between sectors in areas such as virology or detection of low levels of chemical contaminants. Ultimately, the aim is to enhance national ability to protect human health, agricultural production systems, and the people and industries that depend on them.

U.S. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI): Databases and Resources Gavin Macgregor-Skinner BVSc, MSc, MPH, MRCVS
Understanding the elegant natural language of living cells is the quest of modern molecular biology. From an alphabet of only four letters representing the chemical subunits of DNA, emerges a syntax representing the life processes required to build and maintain a human being. The unraveling and use of this "alphabet" to understand new "words and phrases" is a central focus of the field of molecular biology. The staggering volume of molecular data and the subtle patterns that encode biological information have led to an absolute requirement for computerized databases and analysis tools. The challenge is in finding new approaches to deal with the volume and complexity of data, and in providing researchers with better access to analysis and computing tools in order to advance understanding of our genetic legacy and its role in health and disease. The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) has four major tasks: Perform research into advanced methods of computer-based information processing for analyzing the structure and function of biologically important molecules. Create automated systems for storing, retrieving, and analyzing knowledge about molecular biology, biochemistry, and genetics. Facilitate the use of databases and software by biotechnology researchers and medical personnel. Coordinate efforts to gather biotechnology information worldwide. NCBI maintains GenBank, the NIH genetic sequence database. NCBI staff with advanced training in molecular biology build the database from sequences submitted by researchers, individual laboratories and by data exchange among other members of the International Nucleotide Sequence Database Collaboration including the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) and the DNA Database of Japan (DDBJ). Arrangements with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office enable the incorporation of patent sequence data.

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Biotechnology: Communicate, Collaborate, Connect Stephen S. Morse, Ph.D., FAAM, Fellow AAAS
There is momentum on biotechnology finding solutions in agriculture, food production, and medicine, with many distinct, successful projects that serve as examples. However, there are comparatively few opportunities for scientists in the field to meet, share accomplishments, identify common challenges, and consider new approaches. Biotechnology not only draws on the pure biological sciences but is also dependent on knowledge and methods from outside the sphere of biology, commonly thought of as the life sciences industry.

A Systematic Approach to Developing New Biotechnology Capacity and Capabilities Craig Vanderwagen, MD
Establishing an Enterprise is Critical to Progress Discovery Science; Advanced Development; Manufacturing; and Real World Usage Primary Skills Needed Exceed Technical Knowledge Technical; Programmatic; Managerial; Fiscal; and Political Establish a Strategic Enterprise Establish Vision/Mission and Oversight/Governance Body; Establish Strategic Goals (Identify Needs/Uses and Prioritize); Identify Institutions and Capabilities and Gaps; and Identify Funding Streams Establish Defined Process for Development Analyze Discovery science for Promising efforts against needs (Techwatch); Establish Advanced Development Center to assist in later clinical research and production efforts; Meet quality standards for safety and efficacy of products and process; and Strengthen educational institutions and global linkages

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III. Ministry of Agriculture

Applications of DNA and Molecular Markers: Techniques in Agriculture Harb Adel Abed, Ph.D.
Our current work and research emphasis includes: 1. Detection of DNA fingerprints and molecular polymorphisms for several organisms and bacteria using RAPD, AFLP & SSR- PCR techniques; 2. Study on markers link to stem rust resistance genes (SrR genes) in wheat lines; and 3. Identification of DNA fingerprint for some crops by protein electrophoreses. The future goals of our research include 1. Quantitative and qualitative detection of GMO using traditional PCR and Real time-PCR techniques and other low-technical methods; 2. Detection of pathogens using PCR techniques; 3. Detection of genetic variations in plants derived from tissue cultured plants by DNA fingerprinting; 4. Detection of molecular markers for genes and corresponding enzymes associated with bioherbicide compounds; 5. On seed improvement, somatic embryogenesis and synthetic seeds; 6. Conservation genes and chromosomes in gene banks; and 7. Transfer of disease-resistant genes to plants.

Applications of Gene and Genome-Based Technologies for Improving Animal Production and Health Sahar Ahmed Al-Bayatti, Ph.D.
Genomic and gene-based technologies proved to have a strong impact on livestock productivity and can offer new solutions to problems and revolutionize the entire livestock production process. The Ministry of Agriculture realized this potential and took steps for its utilization. It is our hope these technologies will be widely used in the future to enhance livestock productivity and maintenance utilization. The current utilization status is the conservation of animal genetic resources via a gene bank that will preserve animal genetic resources currently under construction. Its objectives are to: 1. Cryopreserve animal germplasm for long-term security; 2. Breed rescue; and 3. Genetic improvement programs Our work to date includes: 1. Study of the genotypes of the Iraqi Buffalo Kappa Casein gene; 2. Study of the cytogenetic differences between swamp and river buffaloes in Iraq; and

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3. Study of the genetic structures and diversity of local animal breeds. The genetic and health improvements include embryo transfer of highly productive imported cattle breeds and increase use of molecular tools, such as PCR, in disease diagnosis and control. Our future work includes: 1. Animal cloning for endangered breed rescue; 2. Genomic selection (superior animals are selected based on total genome information, improving fast and effective selection); 3. Gene transfer technology for the production of disease resistance genes; 4. Recombinant DNA vaccine production; and 5. In-vitro fertilization and embryonic division technology for multiplying highly productive breeds.

Application of Biofertilizer and Biopesticides Salam Abbas Hussein, Ph.D.

Biofertilizers, as microbial inoculants, are preparations containing strains of microorganisms that can augment the microbiological process, nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization or mineralization and excretion of plant growth promoting substances. The term biopecticide means that living organisms, or natural products derived from these organisms or extracted, are used to suppress pest population. These beneficial microorganisms or biocontrol agents represent an environmentally friendly alternative control measure to chemicals and offer different modes of action for combating pathogens. Our current work includes: 1. Isolation, purification and diagnostic testing of microorganisms used in biofertilizer production from plant roots nodules and Iraqi soil; 2. Production of bacterial and fungal bioagents as biofertilizers and biopesticides (Rhizobium, Azotobacter, Izospirellum, and Beaveria bassiana) in a two-form liquid and solid biofertilizer for research and field experimental trials. This can be extended for field-scale in the future; and 3. Quality control on imported biofertilizer and biopesticides on both a lab and field scale. Our future work includes: 1. an increase in storage capacity for biofertilizer and biopesticide products, especially in liquid form, and extend the integrated farm pest; 2. Study on the application and adoption of imported biofertilizers and biopesticides to local environmental conditions; 3. Detection of genetic variation between bioagents; and 4. Introduction to a type culture collection for beneficial microorganisms.

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Plant Biotechnology: Applications of Plant Tissue Cultures Suhaila Aied Braheem, Ph.D.
Recent advances in biotechnology provide good opportunities for immediate benefit. The use of cell and tissue culture of plants, key components of plant biotechnology, introduced considerable power and potential in the genetic modification and improvement of plants that cannot be accomplished by conventional genetic methods. In order to have any meaningful impact on agriculture, developing tissue culture has to be equally and readily applicable to improve plant species. Our current application of tissue cultures includes: 1. Production of free-virus plants, including potato (plants and micro tubers) and elite varieties of strawberry for greenhouses; 2. In vitro micro propagation of Aloe Vera; 3. In vitro micro propagation of some ornamental plants (carnations); and 4. Development of doubled haploid plants via (anther and microspore culture) Our future work includes: 1. Manipulation of other double haploid techniques for agricultural purposes; 2. Studies on somatic cell hybridization (protoplast fusion) to produce somatic hybrids between sexually incompatible plants; 3. Studies on the genetic transformation of plants to introduce foreign genes and produce transgenic plants; 4. Cryopreservation for the long-term preservation of useful germplasm and strengthening of germplasm banks; 5. Studies on Somatic embryogenesis, which include true-to-type mass multiplication of heterotic F1 hybrids and other elite genotypes through artificial seeds.

Current Status and Future Prospects in Biotechnological Applications in Ministry of Agriculture Tamara Adnan, Ph.D. Candidate
Some agricultural biotechnological techniques were introduced over the last several years. Researchers in the subject were able to identify cultivars with higher disease and/or insect resistance, weed resistance, and nutritional levels such as higher amino acids contents in animals or plants. They can splice, hybridize and multiply DNA and clone entire animals with existing instrumentation and expertise. With better understanding of DNA-marker techniques, it was possible to identify many plant cultivars, animals and microorganisms using different DNAmarkers techniques such as RAPD, SSR and AFLP-PCR-based techniques. A lot of attention is devoted to more advanced techniques, whereas simple biological systems that could be better exploited by agriculture may be overlooked or neglected. Some of these include the utilization and enhancement of symbiotic associations between microorganisms and plants. Considerable work is available on various aspects of using biofertilizer and biopesticide applications in organic agriculture.

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Biological solution minimizes the perceived hazardous impacts from herbicides and insecticides in agriculture production. Biological weed management is a system that incorporates the use of diverse biological organisms and biologically based approaches including allelochemicals and other cultural practices to significantly reduce weed densities in a manner that is similar to use of chemical herbicides alone. Although many biologically active compounds have been found and used in agricultural management systems such as bioherbicides and insecticides, reducing environment/soil pollution and hazardous for health, but continuous study on the isolation and identification of allelochemicals from plant or microorganisms are still needed to provide new strategies in maintaining and increasing future agricultural production. Important research areas must continue to develop biotechnological techniques for incorporating controlling genes into crops for their own production of allelochemicals as weed and disease management. Plant tissue culture techniques offer several advantages over conventional propagation methods. For example, these techniques help in rapid plant multiplications toward large-scale micro propagation, and, in addition, a large number of virus-free plants can be obtained by meristem culture such as potato plants and other plant species (strawberry, date palm) depending upon the objectives. In vitro gametic embryogenesis is an efficient means of producing haploids by another culture in a growing number of plant species such as wheat. In recent years, with the tremendous increase in population and pressure on the forest, livestock and land resources increased, resulting in a decline in the population of economically important animal and plant species. Thus, attempts have been recently made to protect and preserve plant and animal species by preserving the genetic material through various approaches such as germplasm preservation by cryopreservation. This article briefly discusses the status of agricultural biotechnology and future areas of study in the related technical summaries.

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IV. Ministry of Industry and Minerals

Rapid Laboratory Tests: A Leading Technology in Iraq Abbas Fadhil Abbas
Rapid laboratory tests are important because they provide highly accurate, sensitive and quick results at a low cost and low resource use. These tests are characterized by their steadiness at different temperatures, are easy to transport and store, do not require much experience to use and do not require much time to conduct. One of the most important advantages is the simplicity of testing by the patient, without the need for much training, experience or precision. In addition, rapid laboratory tests do not require complicated techniques, electrical energy, freezing, or any other sensitive devices. Furthermore, the collection of pathological specimens is easy and does not require professional or technical training. The samples rapid laboratory tests deal with are usually urine, saliva or capillary blood specimens, all of which are easy to collect by the patient or medical staff.

Al-Razi Center for Research and Medical Diagnostic Kit Production Abbas Fadhil Abbas
The development of the diagnostics industry in the world with the introduction of modern techniques, such as biotechnology and genetic engineering, creates future plans for the use of these technologies to develop and invest in the scientific and technical capacities available in the Al-Razi Center. These techniques include: 1. Preparation of monoclonal antibodies used in the preparation of diagnostic kits, such as blood grouping rapid test strip for hepatitis HBs and acquired immune deficiency syndrome, HIV, pregnancy, cancer, syphilis and TB. Many types of Polymerase Chain Reaction (PRC) techniques such as rapid detection of pathogens, especially genetic diseases that cannot be detected by conventional methods. In addition to designing primers in these ways, the introduction of these technologies to the Center requires concerted efforts from several institutions such as the Ministry of Health and Iraqi universities, as well as a need for continuous training on these technologies.

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V. Ministry of Science and Technology

Infant Diarrhea: Using RT-PCR to Identify Three Hemorrhagic Bacterial Strains Hussein. Od. Kready, Ph.D.
My research work is in the field of infant diarrhea. To date, the main aspects of completed work are infection rate and type of bacteria. The objectives of my research are to develop certain protection measures against the most threatening diseases for infants in rural areas of Iraq. Some of the most prominent results obtained were three hemorrhagic bacterial strains successful isolation for first time in Iraq. These isolates were confirmed by using a PCR device.

Wastewater Treatment Using Biofilm Slime Layer Technology Inaam N. Ali

Biofilm slime layer is one of the advanced biological treatment technologies for industrial and municipal wastewater treatment with the capacity to reuse treated water for agricultural purposes. Bacterial, fungal and algal biofilm slime layer were grown on the interior surfaces of polyethylene pellet (carrier) and suspended in municipal wastewater for the removal of organic pollutants. Bacterial species (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus megaterium, Sphingobacterium thalpophilum), fungal species (Penicillium citrinum,Aspergillus niger,Trichoderma harzianum) and algal species (Nostoc linkia, Scendesmu sdimorphus) were used separately for biofilm slime layer growth under controlled laboratory conditions (pH, temperature, and aeration). In addition, microbial mixtures were grown on other pellets and suspended in the glass cylinders for wastewater treatment under controlled laboratory conditions. Bacterial biofilm layer thickness was measured and recorded at 9, 6 and 5mm respectively as compared with 3mm for the control group throughout a retention time of 16 days. Bacterial (P. aeruginosa) biofilm slime layer showed an efficiency for COD, TOC, NO3 and PO4 removal after 24 hours of 75%, 65% , 69% and 56% respectively while the removal rates of the same factors using the fungal biofilm layer of P. citrinum was 83%, 78%, 53% and 60% after 48 hours respectively. The algal biofilm reactor with S. dimorphus showed that the highest removal rate of total nitrogen (93%) as compared to control group (87%) occurred after 72 hours of treatment due to the biofilm slime thickness of S. dimorphus (7.5mm) as compared to the thickness of the N. linkia slime layer (5.3mm). A mixture of microbial species biofilm layer was used for wastewater treatment over 18 and 24 hours, using aerobic and anoxia. This microbial biofilm layer showed removal rates for TOC, COD, and TN of 90%, 83%, and 59% respectively in an aerobic condition and removal rates of 66%, 52%, and 84% in an anoxic condition. From the above results, one can conclude that controlling the biofilm slim layer is a promising technology for municipal wastewater treatment, as long as it is used under suitable conditions.

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Biological Weapon Convention Perspective of Biotechnology Iraq National Monitoring Authority Mahdi Falih Al-Jewari
The objective of this presentation is to present a brief overview of the Biological Weapon Convention (BWC) and emphasize obligations of state parties under the BWC to strengthen international security. The presentation will also highlight the relationship between biological sciences and the BWC, more specifically biotechnology and adopting effective measures and procedures for biosafety and biosecurity in connection with hazardous microorganisms or genetic techniques. The importance of using Article X of the BWC, which calls on and encourages state parties to transfer advanced science and technologies for peaceful purposes. I will present the pathogen microorganism lists according to WHO classifications, which were adopted by the BWC, as well as a definition of the Security General Mechanism to investigate alleged use of chemical and biological agents.

Establishing a Molecular Laboratory: Identifying Biological Control Agents and the Effect of Climate Change Mohammed W. Khudhair, MSc, and Hussain F. Al Rubeai, Ph.D.
I gained biotechnology experience when I did my masters degree in the University of Queensland, Australia. I learned how to use molecular techniques in identifying, diagnosing, and screening pests, and I worked on investigating the effect of climate change, especially CO2 on plant pathogens. The study was conducted at CSIRO-Brisbane in Australia to investigate the effects of increasing CO2 levels on one of the most important diseases that causes high yield loss in wheat, barley in many countries and regions including Australia, crown rot caused by Fusarium species. The study found increasing CO2 concentrations boosts the selective enrichment among Fusarium species under elevated CO2, thus increasing pathogenic populations and reducing saprophytic and changing the genotypic diversity after five cycles of monoculture of wheat varieties. We are establishing a molecular lab that can be used for detecting and studying the genotypic diversity of important pest populations such as plant pathogens and insects, and identifying some microorganisms that can be used as a biological control agents (entomopathogenic fungi, bacteria) in order to improve controlling programs. Moreover, studying the effect of climate change on the genotypic diversity of crucial pests in Iraq is another important target of our future work.

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Integrated Pest Control Research Center: Food Security and Biological Control Programs Mohammed W. Khudhair, MSc, and Hussain F. Al Rubeai, Ph.D.
Climate is an important factor that can affect plant pests in terms of growth and distribution. Food security, crop production, disease management, crop distribution, biological control programs, and human and animal safety are all postulated to be effected, mostly adversely, as a consequence of climate change. Atmospheric CO2 concentration increased by 31% since the pre-industrial revolution and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has projected it will increase between 445ppm and 710ppm by the year 2050. Increasing CO2 concentration in the atmosphere influences the physiology, morphology and biomass of plants and their interactions with plant pathogens, insects and other microorganisms. Therefore, it is important to study the effect of climate change, especially CO2 concentration, on important pests on crucial economic crops in Iraq such as plant pathogens and insects in terms of their genotypic diversity, pathogenicity, aggressiveness, and distribution using molecular techniques such as gene screening, gene sequencing, and gene isolation. This can explain many essential changes in pest distribution, density, and virulence in most of the important crops such as wheat, date palm and citrus, consequently improving breeding programs, disease management host plant resistance, IPM programs and food security.

Evaluation of Breast Cancer Antigen 15.3, Copper, Zinc, Calcium and Iron in Breast Cancer Patients Riyadh Uthafa, Ph.D., Rafah Rasheed Ismail, Emman Mohammed Kathem, MSc, Sana Ismail Ahmmad, Suha Abed AlHammed, MSc, Faeeza Ahmmad
In the present study, the levels of cancer antigen (CA15.3) and serum for Calcium (Ca), Iron (Fe), Zinc (Zn) and Copper (Cu) in breast cancer for 200 healthy Iraqi women, age 30-65. The 200 women were divided into four groups of 50, including breast cancer patients 30-59 years old, breast cancer patients 60-75 years old, milking nodules groups 30-60 years old and a control group. The result of this study showed significant (P<0.05) increase in the CA15.3 level and copper concentration in the milking nodules group and both breast cancer patient groups. Results also showed significant (P<0.05) decrease in Fe concentration in the milking nodules group and both breast cancer patient groups, significant decrease in the Zn concentration in both breast cancer patient groups, significant decrease in Ca concentration and increase in Zn concentration in milking nodules group and an increase in Ca concentration in both breast cancer patient groups. These results compared with control group.

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The Effect of Cyclamen persicum Extracts on Food Poisoning Bacteria and the Shelf Life of Fresh Minced Meat Samia Khalil Mahmood, Ph.D.
The activity of Cyclamen persicum alcoholic and aqueous extracts (hot and cold) determined in the three concentrations, 0.1%, 0.2% and 0 .3%, to inhibit bacterial growth which caused food poisoning like E.coli, Salmonella typhimurium, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staph aureus by using minimum inhibition concentration (MIC). The effects of concentrations to reduce the growth number of fresh meat under refrigerated temperatures to increase the shelf life of minced fresh meat was also evaluated. The results show that the hot alcoholic extracts increased the shelf life of minced meat for seven days. However, hot aqueous extracts were the best when compared with the cold. Therefore, this study indicated the significant activity of Cyclamen persicum extracts decreased in all types of bacteria in treated fresh meat in comparison to untreated fresh meat.

Applications of Biotechnology to Improve Crop Production Under Abiotic Stress and Increase Secondary Products in Medicinal Plants Zahra N. Al Hattab, Ph.D. and Wajida Kh. Alqaudhy, MSc
Biotechnology is the application of scientific knowledge to the management of microorganisms, or of cells and tissues of higher organisms, so these supply products can be of use to human beings. Tissue culture is used to improve crop production in saline soils. Several improved germplasms of wheat, barley, beans and alfalfa with high salt tolerance were produced In Vitro. These plants were tested in a hydroponic culture and in the field. They showed stable growth and production for several generations in saline soil. Tissue culture was also used to improve the production of secondary products and medicinal compounds in Datura plants. Recently, we used SSR markers to identify wheat germplasms.

The Role of Bioactive Components of Polysaccharides (B-D Glucan) Extracted From Food Sources as Inhibitory Cell Proliferation on Cancer Cells Zainab Mohammed Taher Jaafar, Ph.D.
B-D glucan is considered a potent bioactive compound and present as a principle component of the cell wall in mushrooms and yeast. These substances are known as biological response modifiers because they exhibit modulation in the humeral and cellular immunity and thereby have beneficial effects in fighting infections. In addition, they also exhibit hypocholesterolemic and anti-coagulant properties as well as antitoxic and anti-tumorigenic properties, making them promising candidates as pharmacological properties of health. The goals of the study were to 1. Study the effect of extracted glucan on inhibitory cell proliferation on cancer cells to benefit the development of new drugs in cancer treatment and 2. Decrease the side effects of chemotherapy on normal cells.

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The study included extracted glucan from two food sources, edible mushrooms and barley. The glucan extracted from mushrooms was added to the cultured heparinized human blood cells obtained from leukemia patients of three types (CML, ALL, AML); all previously treated with chemotherapy. The other study was done on purified glucan from barely added to breast cancer cell lines (LLL-9, Mcf-7 and Mcf-10A) to examine the cytotoxic effects of glucan on cancer cells by using the BrdU incorporation test. The results provided an idea about the cytotoxic effects of the extracted glucan from mushrooms and barely on the cancer cells. The effect of glucan on leukemic blood cells from patients of (CML, AML, ALL) by using cytogenetic parameters showed a decrease in the mitotic index (MI), which was 60% in AML and ALL. The MI was 40% in CML when compared with the untreated leukemia cells. The blast index (BI) was decreased to 50% in AML and ALL and 33% in CML. The values of sister chromatid exchange give reduced values, it was 18.82 in untreated ALL, 22.4 in untreated AML and 26.66 in untreated CML. In treated cells it reduced to 10.45 in ALL, 12.47 in AML, and 10.49 in CML. The results of purified glucan from barely also showed anticancer activity on the breast cancer cell lines (MCF-10A, MCF-7, LCC-9). The results indicated that B-glucan may be useful in inhibitory endocrine resistant breast cancer cell proliferation and may enhance cellular sensitivity to endocrine therapies. The study demonstrates the inhibitory cell proliferation effect of the extracted B-glucan on cancer cells, which possess biological properties that can lead to more perspectives regarding mass production through biotechnology methods. For example, supporting treatments of cancer submitted to chemotherapy to improve the immunologic status and reduce the side effects of chemotherapy.

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VI. University of Baghdad

RAPD-PCR Analysis of Genomic DNA of Some Species of Euphorbia Grown in University of Baghdad Campus in Jadiriyah Silva A.Yakoub Zokian, Ph.D., Abed Al-Jasim M. Al-Jibouri, Ph.D. and Ali H. Al-Musawi, Ph.D.
There was an attempt to identify species of Euphorbia (E.peplus, E.helioscopia, E. granulata and E.hirta) that grew at the University of Baghdad Campus in Jadiriyah and to find the genetic polymorphism among them by using DNA markers by using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technique. The total genomic DNA of species was studied and extracted from dry seeds by using a commercial kit. Molecular analysis was performed by using nine random markers in the Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD-PCR) technique. RAPD-PCR analyses based on three primers A13, C05 and D20 gave results in terms of amplification and polymorphisim for the four species studied. The value of genetic polymorphisms for each primer was determined, ranging between 47-84%. Primer A13 produced the highest percent of genetic polymorphism as compared with primer C05. RAPD-PCR technique confirmed the isolation of the four species of Euphorbia.

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VII. University of Mustansariyah

Iraqi Center for Cancer and Medical Genetic Research
Immuno-photosensitizing Oncolytic Measles Virus for Immuno-photodynamic Therapy, In Vitro and In Vivo Study Ahmed Al-Shammari, Ph.D.
This project seeks to generate a recombinant measles virus that combines viroimmunotherapy with photodynamic therapy so the virus will express ALA synthase and one of the different cytokines for cancer treatment. The main idea behind this study is that cancer cells infected with this measles virus will express high levels of ALA synthase, the rate-limiting enzyme for the formation of 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA), a precursor in the synthesis of endogenous porphyrins, which have previously been shown to sensitize tumor tissues in photodynamic therapy (PDT). We created two variants of the ALA that overexpressed the ALA dependently from presence of heme; these variants were created by site directed mutagenesis. Light was delivered to the sensitized tumor cells in two ways: by the application of a laser beam or by exploiting the second gene that inserted into the viral genome, which codes for blue Gaussia luciferase. Infected cancer cells expressing Gaussia luciferase were able to convert luciferin into blue light, which is the right wavelength for porphyrin activation. It is hoped that this will bypass the need for application of a laser beam to kill the light sensitive cancer cells. The virus expressed at the same time is one of the different cytokines genes that were inserted like IL-18, TNF-alpha and Interferon gamma, along with the presence of the photosensitizer. The virus will help kill the tumor cells through oncolytic activity and photosensitization while secreting the cytokines that activate and attract the immune system cells to the tumor site. Here, the tumor cell antigens are exposed to the immune system due to tumor cell destruction, which will help for more tumor cell recognition by the immune system and destroy the remaining cells. Inefficiency and the side effects caused by current classical cancer therapies created a pressing need for new treatment tools with novel mechanisms of action and without crossresistance to currently available treatments (1). The immune system plays a major role in rejecting transformed cells and it is apparent that the tumor-bearing hosts immune system failed to control the proliferation of malignant cells, so the augmentation of the hosts natural immune defenses will provide an effective modality of anticancer therapy (2). Immunotherapies combined with gene therapy can modulate the hosts immune system to provide either a therapeutic or a preventive antitumor response via in situ or ex vivo genetic manipulation, and transfer genes with the aim to elicit an immune response against tumors (3). Cancer gene therapy is aimed at the destruction of malignant cells, whereas conventional gene therapy frequently establishes or restores a long-term function in target cells. Therefore, the requirements for viruses used against cancer are fundamentally different from conventional vectors. Host cell death, immune response, and the spread of replicating viruses can all contribute to oncolytic efficacy (4, 5). Virotherapy uses the replication of competent oncolytic viruses to kill tumor cells (6). Oncolytic viruses are able to selectively replicate in tumor cells and kill them. A major advantage of such replication-competent viruses is this in situ amplification and subsequent spread within the tumor (7, 8). The measles virus (MV), an enveloped paramyxovirus, has been

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shown to have oncolytic activity in cancer cells (9). There have been reports about the regression of malignant lymphomas after a natural measles infection (10). The vaccine strain infects by targeting the CD46 receptors that are overexpressed in human tumors (11). Live attenuated measles virus is used to treat different implanted tumors in mice human lymphoma, pancreatic tumors, Myeloma, mesothelioma and oral cancers and demonstrated promising results, particularly by enhancing tumor cell recognition (12, 13, 14, and 15). This enhanced recognition, if combined with virus secreting immunostimulant cytokines, may be more effective in enhancing anti-tumor immunity. Combination therapies have shown promising results as we can attack tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment through multiple mechanisms, where we combine oncolytic measles viruses encoded for cytokines for immunomodulation with photodynamic therapy (PDT). Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an approved anticancer therapy that kills cancer cells by the photochemical generation of reactive oxygen species following the absorption of the appropriate wavelength of light by a photosensitizer, which selectively accumulates in tumors [16]. Photosensitizers are initially administered, usually systemically (i.v., i.p. or intratumoral), and given time to localize into the target tissue. Then, using a monochromatic light source or laser, a specific wavelength of non-thermal, visible light (in the red or infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum) is subsequently delivered to excite the sensitizer. The sensitizer in turn undergoes a sequence of photo oxidation reactions that culminate in the generation of highly cytotoxic-free radical ions and oxygen-derived species, most notably singlet oxygen [17, 18]. In a type I reaction, once excited to a triplet state energy, the photosensitizer can either undergo intermolecular transfer of electrons with nearby cellular membranes or amino acids and/or nucleic acids. More commonly, the photosensitizer transfers energy to ground-state molecular oxygen in a type II reaction. Either reaction can result in significant intracellular damage of membranes and organelles, although the relative contribution of each will depend largely on the type of sensitizer being used as well as the intracellular environment; i.e. the availability of molecular oxygen [19, 20]. Protoporphyrin IX generated from 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) has been widely used as an endogenous photosensitizer in PDT. However, the hydrophilic nature of the ALA molecule limits its penetration through the stratum corneum of the skin and cell membranes (21). To increase PDT selectivity, we developed a gene therapy approach through the generation of a recombinant measles virus that express high levels of ALA synthase, the rate-limiting enzyme for the formation of 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA), a precursor in the synthesis of endogenous porphyrins which previously has been shown to sensitize tumor tissues in photodynamic therapy (PDT) (21). It was then combined with a photosensitizing oncolytic virus with immunomodulation, where we inserted immunostimulation cytokines like IL-18, TNF-alpha and Interferon gamma (which are known for their antitumor activities 22 and 23), along with the presence of the photosensitizer. The virus helped to kill the tumor cells through oncolytic activity and photosensitization while secreting the cytokines that activate and attract the immune system cells to the tumor site. Here, the tumor cell antigens are exposed to the immune system due to tumor cell destruction, which will help for increased tumor cell recognition by the immune system and destroy the remaining cells. Our aim was to develop a new novel approach for tumor immuno-virotherapy in combination with photosensitization, to create an immuno-photosensitizing oncolytic virus and to study this combination with immunostimulation cytokines like IFN-gamma, IL-18 or TNFalpha.

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Chronic Impact of Bactericidal Dose of Pulse Laser Ablation in Liquid Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles on Hematological, Liver and Kidney Function of White Rats Amer T. Tawfeeq, Ph.D.
Silver nanoparticles (SNP) have a distinguished antibacterial activity, which makes it a candidate to replace the chemically synthesized antibiotic that bacteria have developed resistance against. In order to assess this potential, SNP toxicity has to be tested in vivo. In this research we have synthesized SNP by pulse laser ablation method in liquid (PLAL) and characterize it shape and nano size with atomic force microscope (AFM). The surface plasmon resonance for the synthesized SNP was determined by UV-Vis spectroscopy. The antibacterial activity of the synthesized SNP was assessed against locally isolated Escherichia coli on nutrient agar media in vitro. Bacterial cell challenged with SNP was further characterized with scanning electron microscope. In order to explore the toxicity of the antibacterial dose used of the synthesized SNP, we studded this impact in vivo. Four groups of white rats were used. Liver and kidneys are major organs of rats that SNP accumulated in. During this study, we assign the impact of intreperitoneal injected SNP on blood parameters (complete blood picture), liver and kidneys functions of white rats. Blood ALP, GOT, GPT, serum urea, and serum creatinine were analyzed in 15, 30, and 60, days post the daily injection of 200 mg/KgBW of PLAL synthesized SNP. Results indicate that there were no statistically significant differences between the control group and treated groups in the blood picture and levels of tested enzymes that indicate proper liver function, as well as compounds that indicate proper kidneys functions during time intervals in rats blood. These results indicated that PLAL synthesized SNP was capable of inhibit E.coli growth and possess minimal impact on blood parameters, liver and kidneys function in white rats.

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VIII. University of Technology

Escherichia coli Used for Gene Cloning Rana Munther Badri, MSc
The microorganism Escherichia coli (E. coli) has a long history of use in the biotechnology industry and is the microorganism of choice for most gene cloning experiments. Several reasons contribute to why E. coli became widely used and remains a common host for recombinant DNA, including: 1. Genetic Simplicity Bacteria are useful tools for genetic research because of its relatively small genome size compared to eukaryotes. E. coli cells only have about 4,400 genes whereas the human genome project determined that humans contain approximately 30,000 genes. In addition, bacteria, including E. coli, live their entire lifetime in a haploid state, with no second allele to mask the effects of mutations during protein engineering experiments. 2. Growth Rate Bacteria typically grow much faster than organisms that are more complex. E. coli grows rapidly at a rate of one generation per twenty minutes under typical growth conditions. This allows for preparation of log-phase (mid-way to maximum density) cultures overnight and genetic experimental results in mere hours instead of several days, months or years. Faster growth also means better production rates when cultures are used in scaled up fermentation processes. 3. Safety E. coli is naturally found in the intestinal tracts of humans and animals where it helps provide nutrients (vitamins K and B12) to its host. There are many different strains of E. coli that may produce toxins or cause varying levels of infection if ingested or allowed to invade other parts of the body. 4. Conjugation and the Genome Sequence The E. coli genome was the first to be completely sequenced. Genetic mapping of E. coli was made possible by the discovery of conjugation. E. coli is the most highly studied microorganism and an advanced knowledge of its protein expression mechanisms makes it simpler to use for experiments where the expression of foreign proteins and selection of recombinants is essential. 5. Ability to Host Foreign DNA Most gene cloning techniques were developed using this bacterium and are still more successful or effective in E. coli than in other microorganisms. E. coli is readily transformed with plasmids and other vectors, easily undergoes transduction, and the preparation of competent cells (cells that will take up foreign DNA) is not complicated. Transformations with other microorganisms are often less successful.

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Effect of Anti-inflammatory Drugs on the Corrosion Behavior of Implant Biomaterials in Human Body Fluid Zina Noor, MSc
Our work involves studying the corrosion behavior of surgical implant biomaterials (SS 316L and CoCrMo alloy) in vitro during electrochemical method by using a potentiostat in human body fluid (HBF) in the absence and presence of anti-inflammatory drugs Aspirin (C9H8O4), Paracetamol (C8H9NO2), and Mefenamic acid (C15H15NO2). The three concentrations of each drug were 0.00303, 0.00606, and 0.01212; 0.0086, 0.0172, and 0.0344; and 0.00111, 0.00156, and 0.00201 gm/300ml respectively at 37 degrees Celsius. The corrosion parameters measured included corrosion potential (E/mV), corrosion current density i (mA.cm-2), Tafel slopes b (mV.decade-1), polarization resistance Rp (ohm.cm2) and rate of corrosion CR (mm.y-1). The results of the corrosion resistance test indicate that, in general, the anti-inflammatory drugs act as inhibitors for SS 316L and corrosive materials for Co-Cr-Mo alloy.

Epidemiological and Molecular Study of Brucella Species Causing Malta Fever Dr. Salih A. Al-Bakri, Ph.D., and Inas S. Mohammed, MSc
Our completed work includes: 1. Isolation and identification of the Brucella species from human and animal blood and confirmation by using different bacteriological, biochemical and molecular methods; 2. Investigation of the potential role of direct detection by PCR technique in the diagnosis of human and animal brucellosis; 3. Conduction of a molecular study with traditional method of isolation: serological tests (Rose Bengal test, ELISA test and Milk Ring test) and culture study in the diagnosis of brucellosis in humans and animals; and 4. Conduction of epidemiological studies in Iraq.

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IX. International Speaker Biographies

Nisreen Al-Hmoud, Ph.D., is head of the Biosafety Unit and Division Head of Environmental Laboratories at the Royal Scientific Society of Jordan (RSS). She is involved in the development and execution of a number of programs and initiatives related to bioethics, biosecurity, and biosafety. She serves as a member of the Jordan National Committee for Science and Technology Ethics, where she is currently working on developing a standardized bioethics curriculum for Jordan with plans to expand throughout the Middle East region. Ali Atoui, Ph.D., is a professor at Saint Joseph University in Beirut, Lebanon where he teaches master level courses on food analysis, food microbiology, and food shelf life. In addition to teaching, he conducts research on food safety, genetics and physiology of mycotoxin biosynthesis, and cyanotoxins at the Lebanese National Council for Scientific Research. He has authored over a dozen published papers in international peer reviewed journals such as The International Journal of Food Microbiology and The Journal of Food Science. David Franz DVM, Ph.D., has a long history of research and management of programs related to infectious diseases, medical research, and the role of life sciences in global security policy. Dr. Franz has worked for the United Nations, the U.S. Department of Defense, and is currently a Professor in the Department of Diagnostic Medicine and Pathobiology at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University. Gavin Macgregor-Skinner BVSc, MSc, MPH, MRCVS, is senior public health and laboratory consultant with 18 years of international experience in practical applications and strategies for public health programs. Dr. Macgregor-Skinner has held U.S. and international public health leadership positions, and has provided extensive management and technical advice to governments, non-governmental organizations, multilateral and bilateral organizations, and the private sector throughout the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Latin America. He currently works as an assistant professor in the Department of Public Health Sciences at Pennsylvania State University. Steven Morse, Ph.D., FAAM, Fellow AAAS, is a clinical epidemiology professor at Columbia University, focusing on epidemiology of infectious diseases and improving early warning systems. Dr. Morse is also the founder of PROMED (the program to monitor emerging infectious diseases). He also works internationally in scientific collaboration to help build surveillance and early warning systems for infectious diseases in developing countries. Craig Vanderwagen, MD, is a senior partner at Martin, Blanck, and Associates, where he advises on issues related to medical response systems, public health delivery systems, cross cultural health systems, and biosecurity issues. Dr. Vanderwagen has served in high level leadership positions for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, managed the U.S. National Disaster Medical System, and pioneered ways to counter new and emerging infectious diseases, including the development and use of preventive countermeasures (e.g., vaccines), treatment interventions (e.g., monoclonal anti-bodies against various threats, antibiotics, and devices such as ventilators), and diagnostics.