Media University of Babylon | University of Babylon Discusses a Master’s Thesis in Medical Microbiology

Media University of Babylon - Faculty of Medicine

University of Babylon Discusses a Master’s Thesis in Medical Microbiology

By : Zaynab Kadhim Ameen Awadh

Date : 30/12/2025 25:35:11 AM

University of Babylon Discusses a Master’s Thesis in Medical Microbiology
The College of Medicine at the University of Babylon held a public defense for a Master’s thesis belong to the Department of Microbiology, submitted by the researcher Sajjad Haider Jassim. The thesis is titled:
"Molecular Study of the Gene Encoding Collagen-Binding Adhesion Protein in Streptococcus mutans" and supervised by Professor Dr. Zainab Hammoud Muhaisen
The defense was attended by the Associate Dean for Scientific Affairs, Assist. Professor Dr. Ashraf Mohammed Ali Hussein, along with other faculty members and postgraduate scholars.
Research Summary:
The dissertation investigated Streptococcus mutans, a primary etiological agent of dental caries. Its clinical significance stems from its high capacity for biofilm formation, acidogenesis, and the secretion of virulence factors such as Bacteriocin (Mutacin). The study aimed to isolate and characterize these bacteria from patients with severe dental decay between October 2024 and February 2025, through comprehensive bacteriological and molecular profiling.
Key Findings:
• Bacterial Isolation: The researcher successfully isolated 64 strains of S. mutans, representing an isolation rate of 62.6%.
• Biofilm & Serotyping: The results indicated that 46.87% of the isolates were potent biofilm producers, with Serotype C being the most prevalent (76.5%).
• Virulence Profiling: Molecular analysis revealed a widespread distribution of critical virulence genes, specifically Wap, SpaP, Cnm, and Com.
• Genomic Homology: Sequencing data showed a high genetic identity (ranging from 99% to 100%) with global reference strains archived in the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database.
Conclusion:
The study confirms the pivotal role these specific genotypes play in exacerbating the severity of dental caries, providing essential data for understanding bacterial pathogenesis in the local population.