Media University of Babylon | A Faculty Member from the College of Medicine, University of Babylon, Publishes a Scientific Paper in an International Journal

Media University of Babylon - Faculty of Medicine

A Faculty Member from the College of Medicine, University of Babylon, Publishes a Scientific Paper in an International Journal

By : Zaynab Kadhim Ameen Awadh

Date : 24/8/2025 03:55:09 AM

A Faculty Member from the College of Medicine, University of Babylon, Publishes a Scientific Paper in an International Journal

Lecturer Dr. Laith Jasim Mohammed Al-Lailo, a faculty member in the Department of Microbiology at the College of Medicine, University of Babylon, has published an original research paper in the international journal Frontiers in Aging, under the title “Anti-aging potential of antihypertensive algal peptides identified from the Pariset database.”

The journal, published by the Swiss publishing house Frontiers, is a peer-reviewed scientific periodical ranked in the first quartile (Q1) within prestigious global databases such as Scopus and Web of Science. This advanced ranking reflects the journal’s high academic standards and its broad scientific impact within international research communities.

The journal’s Impact Factor is 5.1, while its CiteScore is 4.3 — indicators that highlight the scientific significance of its published research and the high frequency of citations it receives from scholars worldwide. This publication demonstrates the researcher’s commitment to delivering rigorous scientific contributions that address global health challenges, while also reflecting the advanced academic standing of the College of Medicine – University of Babylon, and its capacity to produce research that opens new horizons in the fields of medicine and biomedical sciences.

The core idea of the research revolves around exploring natural compounds extracted from algae as a dual therapeutic solution for two interconnected health problems: hypertension and kidney aging. The study is based on the hypothesis that some algal peptides (small proteins) not only have the ability to lower blood pressure, but can also target the biological pathways responsible for renal cell aging, thus providing comprehensive kidney protection.

In terms of methodology, the research employed an advanced computational approach known as computational biology and molecular modeling. Instead of conventional laboratory experiments, a complex virtual network was built to simulate the interactions of proteins associated with aging within the kidneys. A large peptide database (Pariset) of algal peptides was then screened and filtered to select the most promising compounds. Molecular docking simulations were subsequently conducted to test the ability of these peptides to bind to target kidney proteins (such as ACE and AGTR1) and to assess the strength of these interactions, allowing precise and rapid identification of the most effective and safe candidates.

The results revealed several specific algal peptides, most notably the peptide KTFPY, which demonstrated exceptional binding capacity to proteins implicated in hypertension and renal functional decline. This finding paves the way for its potential development as an innovative natural therapy.

This achievement not only offers possible therapeutic solutions but also contributes to a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms driving aging in vital organs. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of natural resources, such as algae, as a rich source of biologically active compounds, and enhances the international visibility of Iraqi scientific research See less