A PhD student in the Department of Pharmacognosy and Medicinal Plants at the University of Baghdad College of Pharmacy, Mohammed Ali Azgher, under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Enas Jawad Kazem, has achieved a distinguished scientific accomplishment by registering a high-quality complete genome of a new bacterial strain belonging to the genus Streptomyces in the global gene bank, under the taxonomic identifier (txid3458421).
The genome was registered using the latest advanced genomic sequencing technologies, employing a hybrid sequencing approach based on long and short reads, and was carried out in specialized research laboratories in the United States of America. This registration represents the first of its kind in the Middle East for this bacterial genus, which is well known for its significant role in the production of antibiotics, using this modern technology.
The importance of this achievement lies in the vital role of Streptomyces bacteria in the production of pharmaceutical compounds and antibiotics. Registering its complete genome in global databases provides broad opportunities for researchers to conduct genome mining studies, identify genes responsible to produce new therapeutic compounds, and develop advanced research pathways in the fields of medicine, pharmacy, and biotechnology.
This achievement also reflects the distinguished scientific presence of Iraqi academic institutions, particularly the University of Baghdad College of Pharmacy, and their ability to actively contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge and to promote research and innovation in the pharmaceutical sciences.
